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Design and Fabrication of an Elastomeric Unit for Soft Modular Robots in Minimally Invasive Surgery
Published on: November 14, 2015
Development of a shape memory alloy actuator for transanal endoscopic microsurgery
Zhigang Wang1, Jim Hewit, Eric Abel
1Member, IEEE, Division of Mechanical Engineering and Mechatronics, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 4HN, UK (phone: +44 1382 345484; fax: +44 1382 345508;
Summary
Researchers developed a novel mechatronics system for transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) using a shape memory alloy (SMA) spring actuator. This innovation improves rectal cavity exposure for tumor treatment.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mechatronics
- Surgical Robotics
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Traditional transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) faces limitations in rectal cavity exposure.
- Existing methods may not provide adequate visualization for complex tumor removal.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address challenges in traditional TEM by proposing a novel mechatronics-based design.
- To develop and evaluate a new actuation mechanism for enhanced rectal visualization.
Main Methods:
- A custom compression coil spring actuator utilizing shape memory alloy (SMA) was designed.
- The SMA actuator was engineered for a 12 mm displacement and 45 N driving force.
- The actuator was integrated into a new TEM tubular structure.
Main Results:
- The novel TEM tubular structure achieved a rectal site exposure of up to 60 mm wide and 80 mm long.
- The SMA spring actuator demonstrated effective displacement and driving force for surgical needs.
- The integrated system provides sufficient exposure for treating various rectal tumors.
Conclusions:
- The proposed mechatronics approach offers a significant advancement over traditional TEM methods.
- The SMA-based actuator is a viable solution for improving visualization and access in transanal surgery.
- This new design holds promise for enhancing the efficacy of rectal tumor treatment.
