Integrated mechatronic system for managing ophthalmology surgeries under the free hands and feet concept through execution of voice commands
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical microscopes require manual configuration during procedures, necessitating the surgeon to use hands or feet for adjustments, which can divert attention from critical tasks.
Innovation Solution
An integrated mechatronic system with voice command functionality, magnetic quick couplers, and image processing capabilities that allows hands-free operation of surgical microscopes, including autofocus and field adjustments, reducing the need for manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual adjustments are made using hands or feet during surgery, then the surgeon can control the microscope settings, but the surgeon's attention is diverted from critical surgical tasks
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service operation where the microscope automatically adjusts focus and field of view based on detected eye movements and voice commands, eliminating the need for manual intervention during critical surgical moments
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical adjustments are replaced with voice command recognition and automated eye-tracking systems that control microscope settings, allowing the surgeon to maintain focus on surgical tasks while the system handles configuration automatically
2Loss of time
If voice command system is implemented for hands-free operation, then surgeon focus on critical tasks is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system integrates multiple functions including voice command recognition, eye-tracking, automated focus adjustment, and field of view control into a single unified platform that works across different microscope models and surgical scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
A magnetic quick-coupling module serves as an intermediary component that bridges the voice-controlled system with the microscope's mechanical adjustment mechanisms, enabling seamless integration without complex direct coupling
3Productivity
If magnetic quick couplers are used for attaching the system to the microscope, then assembly speed is improved, but biocompatibility concerns arise
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic coupler employs a composite structure combining magnetic material for strong attachment with a biocompatible coating layer that ensures safety for surgical use, merging the advantages of both materials while mitigating their individual limitations
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic quick-coupling module is designed as a disposable component that can be rapidly attached and removed, ensuring biocompatibility through single use while maintaining assembly speed through simple magnetic coupling without complex fastening mechanisms
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates hands-free operation of surgical microscopes, optimizing surgeon focus on critical tasks by automating adjustments and reducing operational distractions.
Implementation Method 1
an integrated system, which is quickly coupled to a surgical microscope using magnets
Implementation Method 2
The quick coupling system based on the concept of magnets has the feature of a gold plating process, which makes it optimal for surgical areas. The gold is deposited on the magnets in the form of a thin layer about 5 nanometers thick
Data Source
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AI summary
Integrated system, attachable to a surgical microscope using magnets, capable of interpreting voice commands and processing images and videos in real time, to then execute functions on surgical instruments, such as optical and peripheral equipment usable in general surgery or, in particular, in ophthalmological surgeries, such as anterior and posterior segment, ocular plastics, orbit, oncological and other surgeries. The system automates the task of the surgeon and assistants when variations are needed during surgery, such as: visualization variations in focus (autofocus) or field adjustment systems (autofield), or performance of the surgical equipment, such as digital interventions in the foot and/or touch controls, interventions in existing knobs and/or levers for lighting control, and the like. The system includes magnetic quick couplings, sensor parts such as microphone, microprocessing center for image and video processing, and actuating parts such as stepper motors, direct current motors with gearboxes, servomotors, so that it allows replacing operations of surgeons and assistants, reducing the need for personnel in the operating room to execute actions, simplifying the task, reducing time and deviations or distractions from the sensitive manipulations performed by the surgeon.