A system for controlling a volume of a drape according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a drape operable to substantially cover an articulated member and having a pressure source opening and at least one tool opening, the pressure source opening defining a path for a fluid to flow into or out of a volume substantially enclosed by the drape, the at least one tool opening enabling a tool to be supported by the articulated member outside of the volume substantially enclosed by the drape; at least one sensor operable to monitor a characteristic of the system; and a controller that causes the volume substantially enclosed by the drape to increase to a maximum volume, decrease to a minimum volume, or maintain an operating volume, and wherein the drape increasingly conforms to the articulated member as the volume substantially enclosed by the drape is decreased.