A team of robotics experts and engineers from EPFL in Switzerland have created a high-tech surgical robot that is designed to be able to carry out laparoscopic procedures with as many as four arms, due to the fact that its human controller can engage both their arms as well as their feet in order to control the device.
This high-tech surgical robot allows surgeons to use their arms but also to engage with a pair of haptic foot interfaces. While the two hands allow surgeons to control instruments, their two feet are used to operate a camera and gripper.
"Actuators in the foot pedals give haptic feedback to the user, guiding the foot towards the target as if following an invisible field of forces and also limit force and movement to ensure that erroneous feet movements do not endanger the patient," noted Mohamed Bouri, head of the REHAssist research group that innovated the robot, adding that this surgical robot will make it possible for a single surgeon to carry out an operation that typically requires multiple practitioners.
Four-Armed Surgical Robots
This Robot Lets Surgeons Use Their Arms & Feet to Control Procedures
Trend Themes
1. High-tech Surgical Robots - The development of surgical robots with advanced technologies creates opportunities for more precise and efficient surgical procedures.
2. Multi-armed Surgical Robots - The use of surgical robots with multiple arms enables surgeons to perform complex operations with greater dexterity and control.
3. Haptic Foot Interfaces - The integration of haptic foot interfaces in surgical robots allows for enhanced control and manipulation of auxiliary functions during procedures.
Industry Implications
1. Healthcare - The healthcare industry can benefit from the adoption of high-tech surgical robots to improve patient outcomes and increase operational efficiency.
2. Robotics - The robotics industry is positioned to capitalize on the development and innovation of multi-armed surgical robots, pushing the boundaries of robotic capabilities.
3. Medical Device Manufacturing - The manufacturers of haptic foot interfaces and other components for surgical robots have an opportunity to cater to the growing demand for advanced surgical technology.