Surgical Robotic Reloading Module for Expedited Implant Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Exchanging surgical instruments during minimally invasive procedures is time-consuming due to the complex coordinated effort required for detachment, reattachment, and recalibration in surgical robotic systems.
Innovation Solution
A reloading module integrated with a surgical robotic system that includes a cartridge and motor, allowing for the automatic positioning of surgical implants within the instrument's path without complete removal from the robotic arm, facilitated by a sensor-activated mechanism to align and load surgical implants onto the instrument.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If surgical instruments are exchanged during a procedure by complete removal and reattachment, then the surgical instrument can be replaced, but the procedure time increases and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge is inserted into the reloading module which is coupled to the trocar, creating a nested structure where the cartridge (containing surgical implants) is housed within the reloading module, which in turn is attached to the trocar. This allows the surgical instrument to be reloaded without complete removal from the robotic arm, reducing procedure time while maintaining replacement capability
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple surgical implants are pre-loaded into the cartridge before the procedure begins. The cartridge can then be quickly exchanged during the procedure to replenish implants, eliminating the need for time-consuming instrument removal and reattachment while maintaining the ability to replace exhausted instruments
2Adaptability or versatility
If surgical instruments are exchanged by complete removal and reattachment, then the instrument can be replaced, but the operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reloading module is designed to be self-contained with the cartridge automatically positioning surgical implants as they are discharged. The motorized cartridge rotation and implant presentation mechanisms operate autonomously, reducing the coordinated effort needed among hospital staff while maintaining full instrument replacement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The reloading module combines multiple functions into a single integrated unit: it houses the cartridge, provides motorized rotation, positions implants, and interfaces with the robotic arm. This consolidation reduces operational complexity by eliminating separate components and coordination steps while maintaining versatility
3Measurement precision
If the cartridge rotates to position surgical implants, then the implant can be precisely positioned, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor controlling cartridge rotation receives feedback from the system to position the surgical implant precisely within the longitudinal channel. The motor rotates the cartridge only when needed and stops at the correct position, achieving precise implant positioning while minimizing unnecessary movement and reducing overall system complexity
Data Source
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AI summary
A surgical robotic system for use in a minimally invasive surgical procedure includes a trocar for facilitating passage of a surgical instrument into a body cavity, and a reloading module configured to couple to a head of the trocar. The reloading module defines a channel that is coaxial with a channel of the trocar and includes a cartridge storing a plurality of surgical implants. The reloading module allows for an expedited loading of the surgical implants thereof onto an end effector of a surgical instrument.