Surgical Manipulator Switch Customization for Flexible Robot Arm Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing robotic surgical systems lack the flexibility for operators to freely customize the functions performed by switches on the operation unit, limiting the degree of freedom in operation.

Innovation Solution

Incorporation of a customized switch in the operation unit that allows operators to set desired functions through function setting, enabling flexibility in switch operations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a predetermined switch function is used in the operation unit, then the system structure remains simple and reliable, but the degree of freedom in switch functions is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedegree of freedom in switch functionsVSAvoidsystem structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The switch function is made dynamic and changeable rather than fixed. The controller changes the switch function based on the operational state of the robotic surgical system, allowing the same physical switch to perform different functions at different times. This resolves the contradiction by providing adaptability through temporal dynamics while maintaining simple hardware structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The functional parameter of the switch is changed based on system state rather than changing the physical switch itself. The controller monitors operational parameters and dynamically reassigns switch functions according to the current operational context, enabling versatility without adding physical complexity to the operation unit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple fixed-function switches are provided, then operational versatility is achieved, but the operation unit becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational versatilityVSAvoidoperation unit simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

A single physical switch is designed to perform multiple functions depending on the system state. The controller dynamically assigns different functions to the same switch based on operational context, allowing one switch to replace multiple specialized switches. This maintains operational versatility while simplifying the physical operation unit structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The switch function is made dynamic rather than static. The same physical switch adapts its function based on real-time system state, providing operational versatility without requiring multiple fixed-function switches. This dynamic reassignment simplifies the operation unit while maintaining comprehensive functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12564462B2Robotic surgical system and operator-side apparatus
Publication Date: 2026.03.03 KAWASAKI JUKOGYO KK
  • US12564462B2 patent drawing
  • US12564462B2 patent drawing
  • US12564462B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An operator-side apparatus includes an operation manipulator including an operation unit to receive an operation for a surgical instrument, the operation manipulator being operable to move a robot arm. The operation unit includes a customized switch in which a function to be performed by the customized switch is customized by function setting by an operator.