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Updated: Jun 5, 2026

Design and Implementation of a Bespoke Robotic Manipulator for Extra-corporeal Ultrasound
Published on: January 7, 2019
Structural Design and Optimisation of a Semi-Direct-Drive Master Manipulator
Rui Han1, Hongqiang Sang1,2, Fen Liu1
1School of Mechanical Engineering, Tiangong University, Tianjin, China.
Background:
In recent years, laparoscopic surgical robots have rapidly developed. However, research on master manipulators remains relatively limited. Existing designs are often characterised by structural complexity and inadequate force feedback capabilities.
Methods:
A semi-direct-drive serial 8-degree of freedom force-feedback master manipulator was developed. A global fluctuation performance index based on mean absolute deviation and a minimum gravity torque index were proposed, and structural optimisation was performed using a multi-objective genetic algorithm. A spring-cable gravity compensation mechanism was also designed.
Results:
The optimised manipulator satisfied laparoscopic surgical requirements, improved the comprehensive performance index by 93.63%, reduced motor output torque by about 70%, and decreased the maximum end-effector force and torque from 15.420 N to 0.123 Nm to 1.402 N and 0.034 Nm, respectively.
Conclusion:
The proposed master manipulator demonstrates potential application value in the field of laparoscopic surgical robots.
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