Two-part Robotic Endoscope Device for Seamless Instrument Switching
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Laparoscopic surgery interfaces often divert the surgeon's focus from the primary task due to cumbersome operations for starting and stopping movement directions, and existing technologies fail to allow the surgeon to signal both to automated assistants and surgical colleagues which instrument to focus on, particularly in sinus surgery where a single external holding device for multiple tools is needed.
Innovation Solution
A two-part robotic device comprising a fixed base unit and a detachable body unit with a novel torque-transmitting joint providing multiple degrees of freedom, allowing the laparoscope to be easily positioned and translated, and an RF transmitter system to identify the spatial position of surgical tools, enabling seamless interaction with automated assistants and surgical colleagues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single external holding device is used for multiple surgical tools, then device complexity is reduced, but it becomes difficult to identify which instrument the surgeon is focusing on
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring which surgical tool is being manipulated and automatically updating the endoscope view to focus on that instrument. Sensors detect the surgeon's interaction with each tool and provide real-time information about the active instrument, enabling the system to respond by adjusting the camera angle and magnification to highlight the relevant tool.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control of multiple holding devices with an automated sensor-based system. Instead of requiring separate physical controls for each instrument, the system uses sensors to detect which tool the surgeon is using and automatically adjusts the endoscope and holding device positions, substituting mechanical manipulation with automated detection and response.
2Extent of automation
If conventional automated assistants are used, then movement direction control is automated, but the interface requires constant surgeon attention for starting and stopping movements
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by automatically detecting which surgical tool the surgeon is manipulating and autonomously controlling the endoscope view and holding device movements without requiring manual input. The automated assistant monitors sensor data and independently adjusts the system to maintain optimal focus on the active instrument, freeing the surgeon from continuous interface interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-positioning the endoscope and holding devices in optimal positions before the surgeon begins manipulation. The automated system anticipates the surgeon's needs by detecting tool selection in advance and proactively adjusting the view and mechanical positions, eliminating the need for reactive starting and stopping of movements during the surgical procedure.
3Reliability
If multiple separate holding devices are used for different laparoscopic tools, then each tool can be held securely, but device complexity and setup time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing a single holding device capable of securely accommodating multiple different surgical tools. The device features adjustable clamps and positioning mechanisms that can adapt to various tool sizes and shapes, allowing one multi-functional holder to replace several specialized holding devices while maintaining secure grip on each specific instrument.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding device is segmented into modular components that can be independently adjusted for each surgical tool. Each segment can be configured to match the specific requirements of different instruments, allowing the single device to provide customized secure holding for multiple tools through its segmented, adaptable structure.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a two-part robotic device for positioning of a hand tool, comprising:a. a fixed base unit constantly fix to its position;b. a detachable body unit reversibly coupled to said fixed base unit, coupled to said current medical instrument;wherein said fixed base unit is adapted to provide independent movement to said hand tool, said independent movement selected from the group consisting of rotation and translation, and further wherein said detachable body unit is removable and replaceable from said fixed base unit such that upon exchange of said hand tool for a second hand tool, said second hand tool is placed in substantially the same location as the location of said hand tool prior to said exchange.