摘要:
A modular, scalable, layerable balloon actuator or actuator array. The miniaturized actuator array can be mounted on the hand controls of a surgical robotic system, and pressure or force input is applied to the surgeon's fingers. The input to the fingers is proportional to the applied force or pressure that is sensed on a separate sensor array, which is mounted on the surfaces of the object to be physically manipulated. The force is translated to pressure using a control system, which includes electronic and pneumatic components. The Novel enhanced haptic feedback system enables the detection of force and tactile information on tissues and sutures with high spatial and temporal resolution. This technology shortens the learning curve for MIS training, expands the application of MIS techniques in surgery, and enhances telementoring and teiesurgery applications. The actuator is modular scalable, Iayerable, compact, configurable, flexible, and conformable. It is therefore designed such that it can be adapted to future surgical robotic systems, and can be applied to prosthetics, orthotics, and persons with sensory neuropathy, as well as other robotic applications, simulating machines and apparatus and user-interfacing systems for video-gaming.
摘要:
An ultrasound scanning system and methods of using the same. In one preferred form, an ultrasound scanning system comprises an acoustic imaging catheter comprising an ultrasonic transducer, a motion control system and an imaging computer system for imaging a patient's genitourinary system. In another preferred form, an ultrasound scanning system is used for imaging a patient's prostate gland.
摘要:
An introducer for use with an ultrasonic imaging system. The introducer comprises a tubular member having a connecting end, a positioning end, and a central lumen, the connecting end including a coupling for attaching the introducer to an ultrasonic imaging system, and the positioning end comprising a plug or other structure that facilitates positioning of the introducer inside a urethra at a fixed anatomical landmark.