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Updated: Apr 21, 2026

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Three-Dimensional Finger Motion Tracking during Needling: A Solution for the Kinematic Analysis of Acupuncture Manipulation
Published on: October 28, 2021
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3D steering of a flexible needle by visual servoing
Summary
This study introduces a robotic control method for precise 3D steering of flexible needles using a novel duty-cycling strategy. The system achieves accurate needle insertion, demonstrating robustness for medical applications.
Area of Science:
- Robotics
- Medical Device Technology
- Control Systems
Background:
- Flexible needle steering is crucial for minimally invasive surgery.
- Precise control of flexible instruments in 3D space remains a challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel robotic control method for 3D steering of a beveled-tip flexible needle.
- To enable precise autonomous navigation of flexible needles towards 3D target points.
Main Methods:
- A new duty-cycling control strategy was developed to control three degrees of freedom.
- A visual servoing scheme with two orthogonal cameras was implemented for automated guidance.
- A translucent phantom was used for experimental validation.
Main Results:
- The robotic system achieved a final positioning error of 0.4 mm.
- The method demonstrated feasibility and robustness against model errors.
- Successful 3D steering and targeting of the flexible needle were achieved.
Conclusions:
- The proposed robotic control method offers a feasible and robust solution for precise 3D flexible needle steering.
- This approach has significant potential for enhancing accuracy in image-guided interventions.
- The duty-cycling strategy effectively controls complex needle movements.

