A method for determining a work volume includes receiving image information from an imaging device corresponding to an array of tracking markers fixed to a flexible mesh, the mesh placed over a patient and over at least one surgical instrument adjacent to or connected to the patient; determining a position of each tracking marker in the array of tracking markers based on the image information; defining a boundary for movement of a robotic arm based on determined tracking marker positions, such that the robotic arm does not contact the patient or the at least one surgical instrument during movement of the robotic arm; and controlling the robotic arm based on the defined boundary.