Multi-component telepresence system and method
US6132368A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 21, 1997 |
| Grant date | Oct 17, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 21, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2090/506
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The present invention provides systems and methods for performing robotically-assisted surgical procedures on a patient. In particular, a three-component surgical system is provided that includes a non-sterile drive and control component, a sterilizable end effector or surgical tool and an intermediate connector component that includes mechanical elements for coupling the surgical tool with the drive and control component and for transferring motion and electrical signals therebetween. The drive and control component is shielded from the sterile surgical site, the surgical tool is sterilizable and disposable and the intermediate connector is sterilizable and reusable. In this manner, the intermediate connector can be sterilized after a surgical procedure without damaging the motors or electrical connections within the drive and control component of the robotic system.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.