US20200254218A1 - Robotizable module for driving an elongated flexible medical member, medical robot and system including such a module - Google Patents
Robotizable module for driving an elongated flexible medical member, medical robot and system including such a module Download PDFInfo
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- US20200254218A1 US20200254218A1 US16/863,133 US202016863133A US2020254218A1 US 20200254218 A1 US20200254218 A1 US 20200254218A1 US 202016863133 A US202016863133 A US 202016863133A US 2020254218 A1 US2020254218 A1 US 2020254218A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- drive member
- axis
- configuration
- intermediate gear
- drive
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M25/00—Catheters; Hollow probes
- A61M25/01—Introducing, guiding, advancing, emplacing or holding catheters
- A61M25/0105—Steering means as part of the catheter or advancing means; Markers for positioning
- A61M25/0113—Mechanical advancing means, e.g. catheter dispensers
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B34/00—Computer-aided surgery; Manipulators or robots specially adapted for use in surgery
- A61B34/30—Surgical robots
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B34/00—Computer-aided surgery; Manipulators or robots specially adapted for use in surgery
- A61B34/20—Surgical navigation systems; Devices for tracking or guiding surgical instruments, e.g. for frameless stereotaxis
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B17/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
- A61B2017/00367—Details of actuation of instruments, e.g. relations between pushing buttons, or the like, and activation of the tool, working tip, or the like
- A61B2017/00398—Details of actuation of instruments, e.g. relations between pushing buttons, or the like, and activation of the tool, working tip, or the like using powered actuators, e.g. stepper motors, solenoids
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B34/00—Computer-aided surgery; Manipulators or robots specially adapted for use in surgery
- A61B34/30—Surgical robots
- A61B2034/301—Surgical robots for introducing or steering flexible instruments inserted into the body, e.g. catheters or endoscopes
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B90/00—Instruments, implements or accessories specially adapted for surgery or diagnosis and not covered by any of the groups A61B1/00 - A61B50/00, e.g. for luxation treatment or for protecting wound edges
- A61B90/36—Image-producing devices or illumination devices not otherwise provided for
- A61B90/37—Surgical systems with images on a monitor during operation
- A61B2090/376—Surgical systems with images on a monitor during operation using X-rays, e.g. fluoroscopy
Definitions
- the present invention relates to robotizable modules for driving an elongated flexible medical member.
- Manual insertion of a catheter or guide in a patient is a relatively conventional surgical procedure.
- this procedure is monitored by X-ray, the surgeon responsible for the procedure is exposed to substantial radiation if performing such an operation on many patients.
- the invention relates to a robotizable module for driving an elongated flexible medical member.
- the module comprises a base.
- the module comprises a first drive member defining a first axis and comprising a first peripheral driving surface around the first axis, the first drive member being mounted so as to rotate relative to the base about the first axis, and comprising a member connecting to a drive motor adapted to rotate the first drive member about the first axis.
- the module comprises a second drive member defining a second axis parallel to the first axis, and comprising a second peripheral driving surface around the second axis, the second drive member being mounted so as to rotate relative to the base about the second axis.
- the second drive member is also mounted so as to be movable relative to the first drive member, in a degree of freedom other than rotational about the second axis, between:
- the module comprises an actuation system operable by a user, adapted to move the second drive member from at least one among the first and second configurations to the other among the first and second configurations.
- the module comprises a motion transmission system for transmitting the driving movement generated by the drive motor to the second drive member in order to rotate the second drive member about the second axis at least in any configuration between the first and second configurations.
- the actuation system is operable to move the second drive member from the first configuration and to the second configuration while compressing said elastic system
- the first drive member comprises a deformable skirt, rubbing on the base during rotation of the first drive member relative to the base, and defining a closed perimeter on the base along the entire translational path;
- the invention relates to a medical robot kit comprising a permanent portion and a removable portion, the permanent portion comprising a motor and a first coupling, the removable portion comprising such a robotizable module provided with a second coupling complementary to the first coupling,
- the first and second couplings comprising at least one cam surface adapted to rotate the first and second couplings relative to each other with respect to a direction of assembly, during assembly of the removable portion to the permanent portion along the direction of assembly.
- the first coupling comprises a plurality of protrusions of concave shape
- the second coupling comprises a plurality of complementary recesses of complementary shape
- the first coupling comprises a centering cone, a protrusion that is movable relative to the centering cone in a sliding direction, and a biasing member biasing the protrusion relative to the centering cone during assembly of the removable portion to the permanent portion.
- the invention relates to a medical system comprising a hollow elongated flexible medical member extending along an axis of elongation, and such a medical robot or such a robotizable module, the hollow elongated flexible medical member being held between the first and second peripheral driving surfaces in the first configuration, the first drive member being rotatable relative to the base about the first axis in order to generate translational motion of the elongated flexible medical member along its axis of elongation.
- the first drive member is driven in translation relative to the base along the first axis in order to generate rotation of the elongated flexible medical member about its axis of elongation.
- FIG. 1 a is a schematic side view of a robotic arteriography facility.
- FIG. 1 b is a top view of part of FIG. 1 a
- FIGS. 2 a -2 c are diagrams illustrating the modes of movement of the members to be driven
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a robotizable module
- FIG. 3 a is a perspective detailed view of the embodiment of FIG. 3 .
- FIG. 4 a is a top detailed view of FIG. 3 in a first configuration, the cover having been removed,
- FIG. 4 b is a view similar to FIG. 4 a , in another configuration
- FIG. 5 is a side view of the mechanism of FIG. 4 a , illustrated without the housing,
- FIGS. 6 a and 6 b are two exploded views of the same coupling from different perspectives
- FIG. 7 is a perspective exploded view of a second embodiment
- FIG. 8 is a vertical sectional view of the coupling of the module to the motor
- FIG. 9 a is a sectional detailed view of FIG. 8 , in a first configuration
- FIG. 9 b is a view corresponding to FIG. 9 a , in a second configuration
- FIGS. 10 a and 10 b are exploded perspective views corresponding to FIGS. 6 a , 6 b , for a second example of a coupling
- FIGS. 11 a and 11 b are schematic views of the drive module according to one embodiment in two different configurations
- FIGS. 12 a , 12 b and 13 a , 13 b are views corresponding to FIGS. 11 a , 11 b , for other embodiments,
- FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the portion mounted on the robot of a coupling according to a third example.
- FIG. 15 is an exploded view of the device of FIG. 14 .
- FIG. 1 a schematically represents an arteriography facility 1 .
- the arteriography facility 1 is divided into two separate areas, an operating room 2 and a control room 3 .
- the control room 3 may be close to the operating room 2 and separated from it by a simple radiopaque wall 4 , for example a movable and/or removable screen, or remote.
- the equipment of the operating room 2 and control room 3 are functionally interconnected via a wired or wireless connection or network, etc.
- the operating room 2 comprises an operating table 5 receiving a patient 6 .
- the operating room 2 may also comprise a medical imager 7 , in particular an X-ray imager, comprising a source 8 and a detector 9 arranged one on each side of the patient, possibly movable relative to the patient.
- a medical imager 7 in particular an X-ray imager, comprising a source 8 and a detector 9 arranged one on each side of the patient, possibly movable relative to the patient.
- the arteriography facility 1 comprises a robot 10 located in the operating room 2 .
- the arteriography facility 1 comprises a control station 11 located in the control room 3 .
- the control station 11 controls the robot 10 remotely.
- the arteriography facility 1 may also comprise, in the control room 3 , one or more remote controls 12 for the imager 7 , communicating with the imager 7 in order to control it remotely.
- the arteriography facility 1 may also comprise a display 13 located in the control room 3 , communicating with the imager 7 , for displaying in the control room 3 in real time the images captured by the imager 7 .
- the robot 10 can move an elongated flexible medical member 15 to be introduced into the body of a patient.
- the elongated flexible medical member 15 may be, for example, a member to be inserted into a canal of a patient and to be moved in said canal, particularly an artery or vein of a patient, through a desilet which provides an opening for access to the patient.
- the elongated flexible medical member may be a catheter.
- the elongated flexible medical member may be a catheter guide.
- a guide is generally of smaller transverse diameter than a catheter, which has a generally hollow portion near the patient or along its entire length so that the guide can move inside it, in particular inside the patient's body.
- the guide may also comprise a curved end, as will be described in more detail below.
- the robot 10 can be controlled from the control station 11 to drive the elongated flexible medical member relative to the patient in at least one degree of freedom, as will be described in detail below.
- the robot may comprise a communication unit 17 for interfacing with the control station 11 . If necessary, the robot 10 may comprise a local control unit 18 , for controlling the robot from the operating room 2 when needed.
- commands and feedback available in the control room 3 may also be available in the operating room 2 in order to carry out an operation locally, for example such as controls 19 for the imager and a screen 20 for displaying images captured by the imager 7 .
- the hollow elongated flexible medical member 15 may be connected to a connector 56 for injecting a contrast medium to facilitate imaging inside the patient.
- the arteriography facility may comprise a contrast medium injector 57 connected to the connector 56 , controllable by controls 58 arranged in the control room 3 . Controls 59 for the contrast medium injector may also be locally present in the operating room 2 .
- the reference 15 will alternatively be used to designate the guide 15 ′′, the catheter 15 ′, or generally an elongated flexible medical member to be inserted into the body of a patient.
- it may be a surgical catheter.
- Such a surgical catheter may be of smaller diameter than an outer catheter, so as to be guided inside the latter, coaxially within the patient, and may be hollow so as to be guided on the guide within the patient.
- the connector 56 comprises a main branch 75 which the juxtaposed catheter 15 ′ and guide 15 ′′ pass through.
- the distal end of the main branch 75 is assembled to an outer catheter (not shown) extending within the patient and within which the catheter 15 ′ and guide 15 ′′ extend.
- the contrast medium is injected into the outer catheter by means of a secondary branch 76 of the connector 56 .
- FIG. 2 a shows the various degrees of freedom possible with the present system.
- the guide 15 ′′ is shown with its front end 15 ′′ a slightly curved with respect to the main longitudinal axis of the guide, with an opening at the front end 15 ′ a of the catheter 15 ′.
- the catheter 15 ′ can be subjected to two distinct movements:
- These movements may be generated in one direction or the another.
- the catheter 15 ′ may be subjected to a movement combining the two basic movements described above.
- the catheter 15 ′ may be subjected to two movements combining the two basic movements described above, in different combinations.
- the guide 15 ′′ can be subjected to two distinct movements:
- These movements may be generated in one direction or in the other.
- the guide 15 ′′ may be subjected to a movement combining the two basic movements described above.
- the guide 15 ′′ may be subjected to two movements combining the two basic movements described above, in different combinations.
- the catheter itself is provided with a curved end, either to enable navigation according to the same principle as a guide, or to facilitate its positioning in an anatomical area having a particular curvature.
- FIG. 2 b depicts an artery 21 of a patient, comprising a main trunk 22 and two branches 23 a , 23 b leading to the main trunk.
- FIG. 2 b illustrates the translational motion of an elongated flexible medical member 15 (here a guide 15 ′′) in translation between a retracted position represented by dotted lines and an advanced position represented by solid lines.
- an elongated flexible medical member 15 here a guide 15 ′′
- a rotation of the elongated flexible medical member 15 is represented, between a first position represented by dotted lines, where the elongated flexible medical member is ready for translational motion in the direction of branch 23 a , and a second position represented by solid lines, where the elongated flexible medical member is ready for translational motion in the direction of branch 23 b.
- the assembly comprising the robot and the catheter and/or guide is called a “medical system”.
- FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of a drive module 14 .
- the drive module 14 is disposable, and is provided for assembly in a sterile manner onto a motorized system.
- the drive module 14 comprises a housing 16 and a cover 24 .
- the cover 24 is movable relative to the housing 16 between two respective configurations: open and closed.
- the configuration shown is the open configuration. In this configuration, the catheter 15 ′ and the guide 15 ′′ are accessible. In the closed configuration, the catheter 15 ′ and the guide 15 ′′ are not accessible at the module 14 .
- the drive module 14 drives the catheter 15 ′ and the guide 15 ′′.
- this is illustrative, and the invention could be implemented in a system driving only the catheter 15 ′ or only the guide 15 ′′.
- the drive module 14 comprises a first portion 25 a driving the guide 15 ′ and a second portion 25 b driving the catheter 15 ′′.
- the first portion is substantially as described in QT FR2015/051566, incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein for all purposes. It will be recalled that this system allows controlling the translation and/or rotation of the guide by a succession of repeated infinitesimal movements generated by a pair of actuating fingers. For various reasons (speed, security, reliability), two pairs of fingers can be used, for example as in the present embodiment, for example phase shifted.
- the guide 15 ′′ lies in a channel 26 ′′.
- the catheter 15 ′ lies in a channel 26 ′.
- the channels 26 ′ and 26 ′′ meet at a common channel 27 which both the catheter 15 ′ and the guide 15 ′′ lie within.
- Use is made for example of a “rapid exchange” catheter, meaning it has an opening providing access to the guide in its side wall. This access opening is located downstream of the common channel 27 . This allows the guide 15 ′′ to run parallel to and outside the catheter 15 ′ at least to the access opening, where the guide 15 ′′ passes inside the catheter to protrude from the distal end of the catheter into the patient's body as shown in FIG. 2 a.
- the connector 56 is carried by a movable support 77 , which is shown in a retracted configuration facilitating placement of the catheter 15 ′ and guide 15 ′ in their respective channels 26 ′, 26 ′′. Following this placement, the support 77 is moved and folded so that the end 75 a of the main branch is facing the common channel 27 . This enables proper insertion of the catheter 15 ′ and guide 15 ′′ through the connector 56 .
- the second portion 25 b will be described in more detail below, particularly in relation to FIG. 3 a.
- first drive member 28 a defining a first axis 29 a and comprising a first peripheral driving surface 30 a around the first axis 29 a.
- the first drive member 28 a is mounted so as to rotate relative to the housing 16 about the first axis 29 a (in this case vertical).
- a second drive member 28 b defines a second axis 29 b , and comprises a second peripheral driving surface 30 b around the second axis 29 b.
- the second drive member 28 b is mounted so as to rotate relative to the housing 16 about the second axis 29 b.
- the second axis 29 b is parallel to the first axis 29 a . It is also spaced apart from the latter in the drive configuration, which is the configuration shown in FIG. 3 a , such that a portion of the first peripheral driving surface 30 a and a portion of the second peripheral driving surface 30 b are facing one another, spaced apart by a gap of approximately the thickness of the catheter 15 ′. Thus, the portion of the first peripheral driving surface 30 a and the portion of the second peripheral driving surface 30 b in question project into the channel 26 ′.
- the housing 16 comprises a base 31 and a cover 32 which are assembled together, as can be seen in FIG. 3 a .
- the base 31 and the cover 32 assembled together define an interior volume 41 within which the mechanism is arranged. Only a portion of the drive members 28 a , 28 b projects from the interior volume to drive the catheter. Most of the mechanism is arranged within the interior volume, reducing the risk of accidental access to the mechanism.
- the second drive member 28 b is mounted so as to be movable relative to the first drive member 28 a in a degree of freedom other than rotational about the second axis 29 b , between:
- the second drive member 28 b can be in an infinite number of intermediate configurations between the first and second configuration.
- the free configuration is not the ultimate configuration of the system in the direction of movement from the drive configuration to the free configuration, and further movement of the second drive member 28 b along this direction and beyond this configuration is possible.
- the drive configuration is not the ultimate configuration of the system in the direction of movement from the free configuration to the drive configuration, and further movement of the second drive member 28 b along this direction and beyond this configuration is possible.
- the drive configuration is defined by a given clamping of a catheter 15 ′ of given diameter.
- the first drive member 28 a is fixed to a shaft 33 a , having the drive axis 29 a as its axis and driven by a motor 34 . In this manner, actuation of the motor 34 generates rotation of the first drive member 28 a about axis 29 a .
- the shaft 33 a thus establishes a connection between the motor 34 and the first drive member 28 a.
- the mechanism also comprises a motion transmission system 35 transmitting the drive movement generated by the drive motor 34 to the second drive member 28 b . This involves rotating the second drive member 28 b about the second axis 29 b in the proper direction, which is in the direction opposite to the direction of rotation of the first drive member 28 a , so that the two drive members 28 a and 28 b drive the catheter 15 ′ in translation.
- the motion transmission system 35 comprises a first gear 36 a that is coaxial with the first drive member 28 a .
- the first gear 36 a forms an input member of the motion transmission system 35 .
- the motion transmission system 35 comprises an intermediate gear 37 having an intermediate gear axis 38 parallel to and offset from the first axis 29 a .
- the intermediate gear 37 meshes with the first gear 36 a in both the drive ( FIG. 4 a ) and free ( FIG. 4 b ) configurations.
- the motion transmission system 35 comprises a transmission 39 between the intermediate gear 37 and the second drive member 28 b , transmitting the rotational motion of the intermediate gear 37 about the axis 38 of the intermediate gear to the rotational motion of the second drive member 28 b about the second axis 29 b.
- the transmission 39 comprises a belt which is integral in rotation about axis 38 with the intermediate gear 37 and with the second drive member 28 b about axis 29 b.
- the intermediate gear 37 is fixed to an intermediate shaft 40 whose axis is axis 38 .
- the intermediate shaft 40 is integral with the belt.
- the second drive member 28 b is integral with a shaft 33 b whose axis is the second axis 29 b .
- Shaft 33 b is integral with the belt.
- Shaft 33 b is supported by a bracket 42 , which is mounted so as to rotate freely on both shaft 40 and the second shaft 33 b.
- the second drive member 28 b can move from its drive configuration, shown in FIG. 4 a , to its free configuration, shown in FIG. 4 b , by rotation about axis 38 .
- the motion transmission system 35 remains operational. In other words, the motor 34 rotates the second drive member 28 b also in this configuration. This is not just true in the free configuration but in any intermediate configuration between the drive configuration and the free configuration, and even beyond. As the motion transmission system 35 is always operational, this ensures that when the second drive member 28 b moves from its free configuration to its drive configuration, the catheter is driven by the two drive members without problems.
- the degree of freedom when transitioning from the free drive configuration to the drive configuration is rotational about an axis parallel to the axes of the drive members.
- this is an exemplary embodiment: other implementations appear possible.
- the mechanism comprises an actuation system 43 operable by a user.
- the actuation system 43 when actuated, moves the second drive member 28 b from its drive configuration to its free configuration.
- the actuation system 43 comprises a lever 44 connected to the bracket 42 , for example in an attachment region 50 .
- the lever 44 comprises an actuating end 44 a projecting beyond the housing 16 through an elongated slot 45 ( FIG. 3 a ).
- the movement of the actuating end 44 a of the lever 44 within the elongated slot 45 between a first and second position moves the second drive member 28 b from its drive configuration to its free configuration.
- an elastic system 46 biases the lever 44 towards its first position. In particular, this urges the second drive member 28 b towards its drive configuration.
- the elastic system 46 comprises for example a spring, of which the first end 46 a is fixed to the actuator 43 and the second end 46 b to the base 31 .
- the position of the second end 46 b relative to the base may be adjustable by an adjustment mechanism 47 .
- This mechanism makes it possible to modify the clamping force of the drive members 28 a , 28 b on a given catheter 15 ′, and/or to adapt to different catheter diameters.
- the adjustment mechanism 47 comprises for example a nut 48 integral to the base 31 , into which a screw 49 is screwed.
- the second end 46 b of the spring bears against a stop surface of the screw 49 . Screwing the screw 49 into the nut 48 changes the length of the space into which the spring can extend.
- the housing is sealed by a seal 81 integral to the first drive member 28 a , and rubbing on the base 31 .
- This is a dynamic seal.
- the contact between seal 81 and base 31 surrounds an opening of the base 31 through which the housing 16 is coupled to the motorized stage 51 .
- FIGS. 6 a and 6 b show an embodiment of a coupling between the motorized stage 51 and the housing 16 (the seal 81 is not shown in this figure).
- the shaft 33 a driven by the motor comprises a coupling member 68 ′ which has a plurality of identical pins 65 (in this case four).
- the pins 65 are distributed, for example uniformly distributed, in a circle passing through the axis 29 a .
- the drive member 28 a is integral with a coupling member 69 ′ having a plurality of recesses 66 distributed along the circle passing through axis 29 a .
- the recesses 66 are identical and are of complementary shape to the pins 65 .
- the recesses 66 are tangent to each other to form a ring, so that regardless of the relative position of the pins 65 and recesses 66 around the axis 29 a , the pins 65 are still all at least partially in front of a respective recess 66 .
- the pins 65 may have a domed end 67 to guide the act of coupling the recess on the shaft, if necessary with slight rotation of the drive member 28 a about axis 29 a by a distance at most equal to half a tooth.
- FIG. 11 a shows a variant embodiment of the actuation system described above in relation to FIGS. 4 a and 4 b . More specifically, FIG. 11 a represents the module in the drive configuration, while FIG. 11 b represents the free configuration. As one can see in these figures:
- FIGS. 12 a and 12 b The above description also applies to the alternative embodiment of FIGS. 12 a and 12 b and to the one of FIGS. 13 a and 13 b.
- a rocker 71 is used to transmit the movement of the actuator 43 to the drive member 29 a .
- the rocker 71 is mounted so as to pivot about an axis 72 , for example parallel to axis 38 .
- the rocker 71 has a first arm 73 in contact with the actuator 43 , and a second arm 14 in contact with the support 70 .
- the actuator 43 causes rotation of the rocker 71 , the rocker's second arm 74 then pressing on the support 70 which causes rotation of the support 70 about its axis 38 ( FIG. 11 b ).
- This movement compresses a spring 46 .
- stopping the user actuation of the actuator 43 automatically returns the system to the drive configuration due to the release of the spring 46 .
- a system for locking the free configuration may be provided.
- a “push-pull” system may be implemented, similar to the insertion of cards into card readers.
- user actuation of the actuator 43 unlocks the locking system, so that the system is returned to the drive configuration by the release of the spring 46 .
- FIG. 12 b shows the system at rest (without electrical current applied).
- the actuator 43 rotates the support 70 about axis 38 relative to the rest position, thereby tensioning the spring 46 .
- the spring 46 pulls on the support 70 as shown in FIG. 12 b .
- the catheter can be disengaged from the mechanism.
- Fluidtightness at the controls is provided via an electrical connector.
- either continuously operating release controls are provided, which in case of shutdown of the controls, automatically return the system to the drive configuration, or alternatively it may be arranged to lock the system in the free configuration.
- actuator 43 may act directly on the support 70 , rather than via a rocker.
- a spring 46 is not necessarily used.
- the support 70 is connected directly to the actuator so that it follows the movements of the actuator.
- FIG. 7 illustrates a second embodiment, below.
- the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in certain features.
- a first difference is that the consumable part 79 which is disposable comprises the housing 16 (the cover 32 and the base 31 ) accommodating the drive members 28 a and 28 b , and the actuator 44 .
- the base 31 comprises a first opening 80 a from which extends the first shaft 33 a and a second opening 80 b from which extends the second shaft 33 b .
- the second opening 80 b is large, to allow the second shaft 33 b to travel relative to the base 31 (corresponding to the second drive member 29 b transitioning between two configurations).
- This embodiment requires a sterile connection between the first drive member 28 a and the base 31 , to reduce the risk of catheter contamination by the mechanism and/or jamming of the mechanism by substances conveyed by the catheter.
- the drive member 28 a is integral with a deformable skirt 81 , rubbing on the base 31 and defining a closed perimeter on the base 31 .
- FIG. 8 illustrates a vertical section view of the driving of the drive member 28 a by the motor 34 .
- the drive module 14 comprises the housing 16 and a motorized stage 51 .
- FIG. 8 thus shows a medical robot comprising a permanent portion 82 and a removable portion, the permanent portion 82 comprising a motor 34 and a first coupling 68 , the consumable part 79 , which is removable, being provided with a second coupling 69 complementary to the first coupling 68 .
- the medical robot shown assembled in FIG. 8 may be provided in a kit, with the permanent portion and the removable portion to be assembled thereto.
- the removable portion implemented as disposable, may be available in large quantities.
- the shaft 33 a is engaged with the first drive member 28 a by a coupling that will be presented in detail below.
- FIG. 8 also illustrated in FIG. 8 is an embodiment where the module rotates the catheter 15 ′ about its axis of elongation. This rotation is achieved by a translational motion of the drive member 28 a along its axis 29 a .
- the catheter 15 ′ is clamped between the drive members 28 a , 28 b , displacement of one of the drive members relative to the other along this axis causes the catheter 15 ′ to roll, thus rotating it about its axis of elongation.
- the rotation is limited to less than one turn relative to a starting position. It may be arranged that the neutral starting position is an intermediate position, thus allowing rotation of the catheter in one direction and in another, depending on the direction of translation of the drive member 28 a.
- the shaft 33 a is implemented as two parts having complementary shapes which allow integral rotation of the two parts about axis 29 a .
- the first portion is an inner core 78 integral to drive member 28 a
- the second part is an outer casing 53 engaging with the motor 34 .
- the inner core 78 is free to slide relative to the outer casing 53 along axis 29 a .
- An actuator 54 controls the movement of the inner core 78 along axis 29 a .
- An elastic means 83 such as a return spring returns the first drive member 28 a to a rest position along axis 29 a.
- Controlling the actuator 54 moves drive member 28 a along axis 29 a via the inner core 78 , the shaft 33 a remaining in any position engaging with the motor 34 .
- Actuation of the motor 34 allows rotating drive member 28 a as described above.
- the skirt 81 is sufficiently long and deformable to ensure sterility at the interface between the drive member 28 a and the base 31 along the entire path of drive member 28 a along axis 29 a.
- the motion transmission system 35 is formed inside the housing 84 of the motorized stage 51 .
- gear 36 a is integral in translation with the shaft 33 a .
- the intermediate gear 37 is of sufficient thickness to always mesh with gear 36 a , regardless of its position along axis 29 a .
- the shaft 33 a is integral in rotation but free in translation relative to the gear 36 a .
- the first variant can be implemented in the embodiment of FIGS. 4 a and 4 b
- the second variant can be implemented in the embodiment of FIG. 8 .
- FIGS. 9 a and 9 b show details of an embodiment concerning the sealing of the robot. Recall that this is a dynamic seal, with shaft 33 a rotating to drive the catheter in translation.
- Shaft 33 a and in particular the core 78 , is integral with a seal 60 .
- a sufficiently deformable seal 60 is chosen so that in the uppermost position, shown in FIG. 9 a , it is rubbing against the housing 84 , and in the lowermost position, shown in FIG. 9 b , it is deformed so as to press against the housing 84 .
- This embodiment is made possible by the small rotational travel of the catheter 15 (range of rotation less than +/ ⁇ 180°). Indeed, in the case of a rapid exchange catheter, it is desirable to avoid large rotational travel which can cause the guide to coil outside the catheter.
- FIGS. 10 a and 10 b are perspective views of coupling the housing 16 on the motorized stage 51 .
- the housing 16 is not represented in this figure.
- shaft 33 a has a coupling member 68 provided with a centering cone 61 and one (or more) meshing teeth 62 .
- the drive member 28 a comprises a coupling member 69 that is complementary to coupling member 68 .
- coupling member 69 comprises a cavity 63 complementary to the centering cone 61 , and a plurality of drive teeth 64 , for example distributed along the entire peripheral rim.
- the centering cone 61 engages with the cavity 63 to guide the coupling, until tooth 62 engages with one of the teeth 64 of drive member 28 a , if necessary with a slight rotation of drive member 28 a by the cam about axis 29 a by a distance at most equal to half a tooth.
- the actuation end 44 a is not necessarily arranged at the housing 16 , but may for example be in the upper surface.
- the cover 32 comprises a window 85 in its upper surface, through which protrudes the actuating end 44 a of the actuator 44 which is connected to the second drive member 28 b .
- the actuator 44 comprises for example a contoured cover partially surrounding the second drive member 28 b and connected thereto, so that they can both move towards the free configuration (shaft 33 b is then moved within the opening 80 b ), while allowing rotation of the second drive member 28 b about its axis.
- a coupling may comprise a coupling member 68 on the robot side, as shown in FIG. 14 , complementary to a coupling member on the consumable side (here again, not shown).
- the consumable-side coupling member is for example a coupling member 69 as illustrated above with reference to FIG. 10 b .
- the centering cone 61 and the tooth 62 are movable relative to each other. In particular, they are mounted in translation relative to one another, in particular along the direction of assembly of the consumable portion onto the robot.
- the centering cone 61 include an outer casing 86 comprising a tapered end providing the centering function of the centering cone 61 .
- the outer casing 86 also has an inner housing 87 accessible through a side opening 88 and a lower opening 89 .
- the lower end 90 of the outer casing 86 also defines a bearing 91 for a transverse axis which will be described further below.
- the centering cone 61 also comprises an inner core 92 which can be placed in the inner housing 87 from below through the lower opening 89 .
- the inner core 92 has an elongated slot 93 along the direction of translation. This slot is open at the upper end of the inner core 92 .
- the inner core 92 also comprises a bearing 96 .
- the tooth 62 has a form 94 complementary to the slot 93 . It has for example a recess on the two opposite main faces of the tooth.
- a biasing member 95 is mounted between the tooth 62 and the outer casing 86 . This biases the tooth 62 upwardly along the direction of translation relative to the casing 86 .
- two springs are used as the biasing member. These two springs are then arranged one on each side of the form 94 .
- the biasing member 95 is for example fixed to the tooth 62 .
- the tooth 62 has a bore in its lower face, for receiving an end portion of the spring.
- the system just described is assembled as follows.
- the biasing member 95 is compressed, and the tooth 62 carrying them is inserted through the inner housing 87 via the side opening 88 until the form 94 is within the inner housing 87 .
- the wings of the tooth then project from each side of the outer casing 86 .
- the biasing member 95 is released and presses against the outer casing 86 (on an inner face of the inner housing 87 ) and biases the tooth 62 upwards (position of FIG. 14 ).
- the inner core 92 is mounted through the lower opening 89 , the slot 93 engaging with the form 94 .
- the bearings 91 and 96 are thus aligned.
- the assembly is mounted on the base of the shaft 33 a , the bearings 91 and 96 coming into alignment with a housing 97 thereof.
- a shaft 98 is inserted through the housing 97 and the bearings 91 and 96 to secure the coupling member 68 on the base of the shaft 33 a.
- the coupling member 68 is integral in rotational with the base of the shaft 33 a , by means of shaft 98 .
- the tooth 62 does not face a complementary recess of the complementary coupling member, but a protruding surface thereof, said protruding surface moves the tooth 62 downwards relative to the outer casing 86 by compressing the biasing member 95 .
- the biasing member 95 pushes the tooth 62 (position of FIG. 14 ) engaged therewith.
- This embodiment allows using a highly crenellated geometry in the coupling members, which allows transmitting significant torque during use.
- the invention relates to a robotizable module for driving an elongated flexible medical member, comprising:
- first drive member 28 a is also mounted so as to be movable relative to the base 31 in a translational motion along its axis 29 a in a translational path
- first drive member 28 a comprises a deformable skirt 81 , rubbing on the base 31 during rotation of the first drive member relative to the base, and defining a closed perimeter on the base 31 along the entire translational path.
Abstract
Disclosed is a module including: a base; a first drive member; and a second drive member. The second drive member is also mounted so as to be movable relative to the first drive member, in a degree of freedom other than rotational about the second axis, between a first and a second configuration. A motion transmission system transmits the driving movement generated by the drive motor to the second drive member in order to rotate the second drive member about the second axis between the first and second configurations.
Description
- The present invention relates to robotizable modules for driving an elongated flexible medical member.
- Manual insertion of a catheter or guide in a patient is a relatively conventional surgical procedure. However, as this procedure is monitored by X-ray, the surgeon responsible for the procedure is exposed to substantial radiation if performing such an operation on many patients.
- To reduce the risks for the surgeon, it is desirable to robotize such insertion. Such robotization is complex, because it is difficult to grip the catheter. The catheter is slippery, and must remain sterile. The reliability of these robotic systems despite these difficulties is a determining factor in their acceptance by the medical community.
- Recently, a drive system was proposed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,927,310 which manages both the translation and rotation of the catheter. The catheter is held on a plate which rotates relative to a base in order to drive the rotation. The plate itself comprises a translational drive mechanism. In addition, use is made of remote motors remaining on the frame, and systems for transferring movement to the catheter. Indeed, not having embedded motors is preferred for reasons of power routing, footprint, and sterility.
- Although this configuration is fully satisfactory, there is still a desire to further facilitate its use by medical staff. Deciding factors are fast startup and shutdown. Rapid, simple, and instinctive startup allows staff to avoid improper placement of the catheter in the robot and the subsequent issues. Fast shutdown may be necessary for manual intervention by medical staff during the procedure if such is needed.
- More particularly, the invention relates to a robotizable module for driving an elongated flexible medical member. The module comprises a base.
- The module comprises a first drive member defining a first axis and comprising a first peripheral driving surface around the first axis, the first drive member being mounted so as to rotate relative to the base about the first axis, and comprising a member connecting to a drive motor adapted to rotate the first drive member about the first axis.
- The module comprises a second drive member defining a second axis parallel to the first axis, and comprising a second peripheral driving surface around the second axis, the second drive member being mounted so as to rotate relative to the base about the second axis.
- The second drive member is also mounted so as to be movable relative to the first drive member, in a degree of freedom other than rotational about the second axis, between:
-
- a first configuration wherein the first and second peripheral driving surfaces face each other with a first spacing between them, and
- a second configuration wherein the first and second peripheral driving surfaces face each other with a second spacing between them that is greater than the first spacing.
- The module comprises an actuation system operable by a user, adapted to move the second drive member from at least one among the first and second configurations to the other among the first and second configurations.
- US 2012/179,167 describes a robotizable module having the above features.
- According to the invention, the module comprises a motion transmission system for transmitting the driving movement generated by the drive motor to the second drive member in order to rotate the second drive member about the second axis at least in any configuration between the first and second configurations.
- With these features, one can very simply either engage the catheter with the robotizable module or disengage it, while decreasing the risk of rendering the robot inoperative due to these engagement/disengagement maneuvers.
- In preferred embodiments of the invention, one or more of the following arrangements may possibly be used:
-
- the motion transmission system is operating in the free configuration;
- the motion transmission system comprises:
- a first gear that is coaxial with the first drive member and forms an input member of the motion transmission system,
- an intermediate gear having an intermediate gear axis parallel to and offset from the first axis, the intermediate gear meshing with the first gear at least in any configuration between the first and second configurations,
- a transmission between the intermediate gear and the second drive member, transmitting the rotational motion of the intermediate gear about the intermediate gear axis into said rotational motion of the second drive member about the second axis.
- the module comprises an elastic system biasing the second drive member from its second configuration towards its first configuration,
- and the actuation system is operable to move the second drive member from the first configuration and to the second configuration while compressing said elastic system;
-
- the elastic system biases the actuation system which is integral to the second drive member;
- the module comprises a locking system adapted to alternatively lock the second drive member in its free configuration or to release it, the actuation system being adapted to control the locking system;
- the actuation system is electrically operable by the user;
- at least one drive member is also mounted so as to be movable relative to the base in a translational motion along its axis;
- said at least one drive member is mounted so as to be movable relative to the base in a translational motion along its axis in a translational path,
- and the first drive member comprises a deformable skirt, rubbing on the base during rotation of the first drive member relative to the base, and defining a closed perimeter on the base along the entire translational path;
-
- the robotizable module further comprises a cover secured to the base and together with the base defining a housing defining an interior space in which are arranged at least a portion of the first drive member, at least a portion of the second drive member, and at least a portion of the actuation system, and wherein an actuation portion of the actuation system, a portion of the first drive member, and a portion of the second drive member extend out of the housing.
- According to another aspect, the invention relates to a medical robot kit comprising a permanent portion and a removable portion, the permanent portion comprising a motor and a first coupling, the removable portion comprising such a robotizable module provided with a second coupling complementary to the first coupling,
- the first and second couplings comprising at least one cam surface adapted to rotate the first and second couplings relative to each other with respect to a direction of assembly, during assembly of the removable portion to the permanent portion along the direction of assembly.
- In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the following arrangement may possibly be used: the first coupling comprises a plurality of protrusions of concave shape, and the second coupling comprises a plurality of complementary recesses of complementary shape.
- In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the first coupling comprises a centering cone, a protrusion that is movable relative to the centering cone in a sliding direction, and a biasing member biasing the protrusion relative to the centering cone during assembly of the removable portion to the permanent portion.
- According to another aspect, the invention relates to a medical system comprising a hollow elongated flexible medical member extending along an axis of elongation, and such a medical robot or such a robotizable module, the hollow elongated flexible medical member being held between the first and second peripheral driving surfaces in the first configuration, the first drive member being rotatable relative to the base about the first axis in order to generate translational motion of the elongated flexible medical member along its axis of elongation.
- In a preferred embodiment of the invention, it is possible to make use of the following arrangement: the first drive member is driven in translation relative to the base along the first axis in order to generate rotation of the elongated flexible medical member about its axis of elongation.
- Other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following description of one of its embodiments, given by way of non-limiting example and with reference to the accompanying drawings.
- In the drawings:
-
FIG. 1a is a schematic side view of a robotic arteriography facility. -
FIG. 1b is a top view of part ofFIG. 1 a, -
FIGS. 2a-2c are diagrams illustrating the modes of movement of the members to be driven, -
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a robotizable module, -
FIG. 3a is a perspective detailed view of the embodiment ofFIG. 3 , -
FIG. 4a is a top detailed view ofFIG. 3 in a first configuration, the cover having been removed, -
FIG. 4b is a view similar toFIG. 4a , in another configuration, -
FIG. 5 is a side view of the mechanism ofFIG. 4a , illustrated without the housing, -
FIGS. 6a and 6b are two exploded views of the same coupling from different perspectives, -
FIG. 7 is a perspective exploded view of a second embodiment, -
FIG. 8 is a vertical sectional view of the coupling of the module to the motor, -
FIG. 9a is a sectional detailed view ofFIG. 8 , in a first configuration, -
FIG. 9b is a view corresponding toFIG. 9a , in a second configuration, -
FIGS. 10a and 10b are exploded perspective views corresponding toFIGS. 6a, 6b , for a second example of a coupling, -
FIGS. 11a and 11b are schematic views of the drive module according to one embodiment in two different configurations, -
FIGS. 12a, 12b and 13a, 13b are views corresponding toFIGS. 11a, 11b , for other embodiments, -
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the portion mounted on the robot of a coupling according to a third example, and -
FIG. 15 is an exploded view of the device ofFIG. 14 . - In the different figures, the same references designate identical or similar elements.
-
FIG. 1a schematically represents anarteriography facility 1. Thearteriography facility 1 is divided into two separate areas, anoperating room 2 and acontrol room 3. Thecontrol room 3 may be close to theoperating room 2 and separated from it by a simpleradiopaque wall 4, for example a movable and/or removable screen, or remote. The equipment of theoperating room 2 andcontrol room 3 are functionally interconnected via a wired or wireless connection or network, etc. - The
operating room 2 comprises an operating table 5 receiving apatient 6. Theoperating room 2 may also comprise amedical imager 7, in particular an X-ray imager, comprising asource 8 and a detector 9 arranged one on each side of the patient, possibly movable relative to the patient. - The
arteriography facility 1 comprises arobot 10 located in theoperating room 2. - The
arteriography facility 1 comprises acontrol station 11 located in thecontrol room 3. Thecontrol station 11 controls therobot 10 remotely. Thearteriography facility 1 may also comprise, in thecontrol room 3, one or moreremote controls 12 for theimager 7, communicating with theimager 7 in order to control it remotely. Thearteriography facility 1 may also comprise adisplay 13 located in thecontrol room 3, communicating with theimager 7, for displaying in thecontrol room 3 in real time the images captured by theimager 7. - The
robot 10 can move an elongated flexiblemedical member 15 to be introduced into the body of a patient. The elongated flexiblemedical member 15 may be, for example, a member to be inserted into a canal of a patient and to be moved in said canal, particularly an artery or vein of a patient, through a desilet which provides an opening for access to the patient. The elongated flexible medical member may be a catheter. Alternatively, the elongated flexible medical member may be a catheter guide. A guide is generally of smaller transverse diameter than a catheter, which has a generally hollow portion near the patient or along its entire length so that the guide can move inside it, in particular inside the patient's body. The guide may also comprise a curved end, as will be described in more detail below. - The
robot 10 can be controlled from thecontrol station 11 to drive the elongated flexible medical member relative to the patient in at least one degree of freedom, as will be described in detail below. The robot may comprise acommunication unit 17 for interfacing with thecontrol station 11. If necessary, therobot 10 may comprise alocal control unit 18, for controlling the robot from theoperating room 2 when needed. - One will also note that all commands and feedback available in the
control room 3 may also be available in theoperating room 2 in order to carry out an operation locally, for example such ascontrols 19 for the imager and ascreen 20 for displaying images captured by theimager 7. - The hollow elongated flexible
medical member 15 may be connected to aconnector 56 for injecting a contrast medium to facilitate imaging inside the patient. The arteriography facility may comprise acontrast medium injector 57 connected to theconnector 56, controllable bycontrols 58 arranged in thecontrol room 3.Controls 59 for the contrast medium injector may also be locally present in theoperating room 2. - In the following, the
reference 15 will alternatively be used to designate theguide 15″, thecatheter 15′, or generally an elongated flexible medical member to be inserted into the body of a patient. For example, it may be a surgical catheter. Such a surgical catheter may be of smaller diameter than an outer catheter, so as to be guided inside the latter, coaxially within the patient, and may be hollow so as to be guided on the guide within the patient. - The
connector 56 comprises amain branch 75 which the juxtaposedcatheter 15′ and guide 15″ pass through. The distal end of themain branch 75 is assembled to an outer catheter (not shown) extending within the patient and within which thecatheter 15′ and guide 15″ extend. The contrast medium is injected into the outer catheter by means of asecondary branch 76 of theconnector 56. -
FIG. 2a shows the various degrees of freedom possible with the present system. Theguide 15″ is shown with itsfront end 15″a slightly curved with respect to the main longitudinal axis of the guide, with an opening at thefront end 15′a of thecatheter 15′. Thecatheter 15′ can be subjected to two distinct movements: -
- translation along its longitudinal axis,
- rotation about its longitudinal axis.
- These movements may be generated in one direction or the another.
- Where appropriate, the
catheter 15′ may be subjected to a movement combining the two basic movements described above. - Where appropriate, the
catheter 15′ may be subjected to two movements combining the two basic movements described above, in different combinations. - The
guide 15″ can be subjected to two distinct movements: -
- translation along its longitudinal axis,
- rotation about its longitudinal axis.
- These movements may be generated in one direction or in the other.
- Where appropriate, the
guide 15″ may be subjected to a movement combining the two basic movements described above. - Where appropriate, the
guide 15″ may be subjected to two movements combining the two basic movements described above, in different combinations. - In some cases, the catheter itself is provided with a curved end, either to enable navigation according to the same principle as a guide, or to facilitate its positioning in an anatomical area having a particular curvature.
-
FIG. 2b depicts anartery 21 of a patient, comprising amain trunk 22 and twobranches FIG. 2b illustrates the translational motion of an elongated flexible medical member 15 (here aguide 15″) in translation between a retracted position represented by dotted lines and an advanced position represented by solid lines. InFIG. 2c , in the same artery, a rotation of the elongated flexiblemedical member 15 is represented, between a first position represented by dotted lines, where the elongated flexible medical member is ready for translational motion in the direction ofbranch 23 a, and a second position represented by solid lines, where the elongated flexible medical member is ready for translational motion in the direction ofbranch 23 b. - The assembly comprising the robot and the catheter and/or guide is called a “medical system”.
-
FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of adrive module 14. In this exemplary embodiment, thedrive module 14 is disposable, and is provided for assembly in a sterile manner onto a motorized system. Thedrive module 14 comprises ahousing 16 and acover 24. Thecover 24 is movable relative to thehousing 16 between two respective configurations: open and closed. The configuration shown is the open configuration. In this configuration, thecatheter 15′ and theguide 15″ are accessible. In the closed configuration, thecatheter 15′ and theguide 15″ are not accessible at themodule 14. - In the example shown, the
drive module 14 drives thecatheter 15′ and theguide 15″. However, this is illustrative, and the invention could be implemented in a system driving only thecatheter 15′ or only theguide 15″. - In the present example, the
drive module 14 comprises afirst portion 25 a driving theguide 15′ and asecond portion 25 b driving thecatheter 15″. The first portion is substantially as described in QT FR2015/051566, incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein for all purposes. It will be recalled that this system allows controlling the translation and/or rotation of the guide by a succession of repeated infinitesimal movements generated by a pair of actuating fingers. For various reasons (speed, security, reliability), two pairs of fingers can be used, for example as in the present embodiment, for example phase shifted. - The
guide 15″ lies in achannel 26″. Thecatheter 15′ lies in achannel 26′. Thechannels 26′ and 26″ meet at acommon channel 27 which both thecatheter 15′ and theguide 15″ lie within. Use is made for example of a “rapid exchange” catheter, meaning it has an opening providing access to the guide in its side wall. This access opening is located downstream of thecommon channel 27. This allows theguide 15″ to run parallel to and outside thecatheter 15′ at least to the access opening, where theguide 15″ passes inside the catheter to protrude from the distal end of the catheter into the patient's body as shown inFIG. 2 a. - One will note that, in the illustration, the
connector 56 is carried by amovable support 77, which is shown in a retracted configuration facilitating placement of thecatheter 15′ and guide 15′ in theirrespective channels 26′, 26″. Following this placement, thesupport 77 is moved and folded so that theend 75 a of the main branch is facing thecommon channel 27. This enables proper insertion of thecatheter 15′ and guide 15″ through theconnector 56. - The
second portion 25 b will be described in more detail below, particularly in relation toFIG. 3 a. - As can be seen in particular in
FIG. 3a , there is afirst drive member 28 a defining afirst axis 29 a and comprising a first peripheral drivingsurface 30 a around thefirst axis 29 a. - The
first drive member 28 a is mounted so as to rotate relative to thehousing 16 about thefirst axis 29 a (in this case vertical). - A
second drive member 28 b defines asecond axis 29 b, and comprises a second peripheral drivingsurface 30 b around thesecond axis 29 b. - The
second drive member 28 b is mounted so as to rotate relative to thehousing 16 about thesecond axis 29 b. - The
second axis 29 b is parallel to thefirst axis 29 a. It is also spaced apart from the latter in the drive configuration, which is the configuration shown inFIG. 3a , such that a portion of the first peripheral drivingsurface 30 a and a portion of the second peripheral drivingsurface 30 b are facing one another, spaced apart by a gap of approximately the thickness of thecatheter 15′. Thus, the portion of the first peripheral drivingsurface 30 a and the portion of the second peripheral drivingsurface 30 b in question project into thechannel 26′. - The
housing 16 comprises abase 31 and acover 32 which are assembled together, as can be seen inFIG. 3a . Thebase 31 and thecover 32 assembled together define aninterior volume 41 within which the mechanism is arranged. Only a portion of thedrive members - The
second drive member 28 b is mounted so as to be movable relative to thefirst drive member 28 a in a degree of freedom other than rotational about thesecond axis 29 b, between: -
- a first configuration called the drive configuration (
FIG. 4a ), where the first and second peripheral driving surfaces 30 a, 30 b face each other with a first spacing between them, and - a second configuration called the free configuration (
FIG. 4b ), where the first and second peripheral driving surfaces 30 a, 30 b face each other with a second spacing between them that is greater than the first spacing.
- a first configuration called the drive configuration (
- During this motion, the
second drive member 28 b can be in an infinite number of intermediate configurations between the first and second configuration. In addition, it is possible that the free configuration is not the ultimate configuration of the system in the direction of movement from the drive configuration to the free configuration, and further movement of thesecond drive member 28 b along this direction and beyond this configuration is possible. Similarly, it is possible that the drive configuration is not the ultimate configuration of the system in the direction of movement from the free configuration to the drive configuration, and further movement of thesecond drive member 28 b along this direction and beyond this configuration is possible. The drive configuration is defined by a given clamping of acatheter 15′ of given diameter. - The description below shows an example mechanism enabling the transition from one to the other of these configurations.
- The
first drive member 28 a is fixed to ashaft 33 a, having thedrive axis 29 a as its axis and driven by amotor 34. In this manner, actuation of themotor 34 generates rotation of thefirst drive member 28 a aboutaxis 29 a. Theshaft 33 a thus establishes a connection between themotor 34 and thefirst drive member 28 a. - The mechanism also comprises a
motion transmission system 35 transmitting the drive movement generated by thedrive motor 34 to thesecond drive member 28 b. This involves rotating thesecond drive member 28 b about thesecond axis 29 b in the proper direction, which is in the direction opposite to the direction of rotation of thefirst drive member 28 a, so that the twodrive members catheter 15′ in translation. - In the example presented, the
motion transmission system 35 comprises afirst gear 36 a that is coaxial with thefirst drive member 28 a. Thefirst gear 36 a forms an input member of themotion transmission system 35. - The
motion transmission system 35 comprises anintermediate gear 37 having anintermediate gear axis 38 parallel to and offset from thefirst axis 29 a. Theintermediate gear 37 meshes with thefirst gear 36 a in both the drive (FIG. 4a ) and free (FIG. 4b ) configurations. - The
motion transmission system 35 comprises atransmission 39 between theintermediate gear 37 and thesecond drive member 28 b, transmitting the rotational motion of theintermediate gear 37 about theaxis 38 of the intermediate gear to the rotational motion of thesecond drive member 28 b about thesecond axis 29 b. - In the present example, the
transmission 39 comprises a belt which is integral in rotation aboutaxis 38 with theintermediate gear 37 and with thesecond drive member 28 b aboutaxis 29 b. - Thus, the
intermediate gear 37 is fixed to anintermediate shaft 40 whose axis isaxis 38. Theintermediate shaft 40 is integral with the belt. - The
second drive member 28 b is integral with ashaft 33 b whose axis is thesecond axis 29 b.Shaft 33 b is integral with the belt. -
Shaft 33 b is supported by abracket 42, which is mounted so as to rotate freely on bothshaft 40 and thesecond shaft 33 b. - Thus, the
second drive member 28 b can move from its drive configuration, shown inFIG. 4a , to its free configuration, shown inFIG. 4b , by rotation aboutaxis 38. - Note that in the free configuration of
FIG. 4b , themotion transmission system 35 remains operational. In other words, themotor 34 rotates thesecond drive member 28 b also in this configuration. This is not just true in the free configuration but in any intermediate configuration between the drive configuration and the free configuration, and even beyond. As themotion transmission system 35 is always operational, this ensures that when thesecond drive member 28 b moves from its free configuration to its drive configuration, the catheter is driven by the two drive members without problems. - With these features, one can also ensure that catheters of different diameters are driven with the same mechanism, and/or that different clamping forces are applied to a given catheter (by bringing the two
drive members - Although the example above involves a particular
motion transmission system 35, this is an illustrative example which is particularly compact; other variants are possible which achieve the same kinematics. - The degree of freedom when transitioning from the free drive configuration to the drive configuration is rotational about an axis parallel to the axes of the drive members. However, this is an exemplary embodiment: other implementations appear possible.
- The mechanism comprises an
actuation system 43 operable by a user. Theactuation system 43, when actuated, moves thesecond drive member 28 b from its drive configuration to its free configuration. - The
actuation system 43 comprises alever 44 connected to thebracket 42, for example in anattachment region 50. Thelever 44 comprises an actuatingend 44 a projecting beyond thehousing 16 through an elongated slot 45 (FIG. 3a ). The movement of the actuatingend 44 a of thelever 44 within theelongated slot 45 between a first and second position moves thesecond drive member 28 b from its drive configuration to its free configuration. - If appropriate, an
elastic system 46, such as a spring, biases thelever 44 towards its first position. In particular, this urges thesecond drive member 28 b towards its drive configuration. - Thus, when the
second drive member 28 b moves from its drive position to its free position due to user activation of theactuator 43, this compresses theelastic system 46. - The
elastic system 46 comprises for example a spring, of which thefirst end 46 a is fixed to theactuator 43 and thesecond end 46 b to thebase 31. - Furthermore, the position of the
second end 46 b relative to the base may be adjustable by anadjustment mechanism 47. This mechanism makes it possible to modify the clamping force of thedrive members catheter 15′, and/or to adapt to different catheter diameters. - The
adjustment mechanism 47 comprises for example anut 48 integral to thebase 31, into which ascrew 49 is screwed. Thesecond end 46 b of the spring bears against a stop surface of thescrew 49. Screwing thescrew 49 into thenut 48 changes the length of the space into which the spring can extend. - The housing is sealed by a
seal 81 integral to thefirst drive member 28 a, and rubbing on thebase 31. This is a dynamic seal. The contact betweenseal 81 andbase 31 surrounds an opening of the base 31 through which thehousing 16 is coupled to themotorized stage 51. -
FIGS. 6a and 6b show an embodiment of a coupling between themotorized stage 51 and the housing 16 (theseal 81 is not shown in this figure). In this example, theshaft 33 a driven by the motor comprises acoupling member 68′ which has a plurality of identical pins 65 (in this case four). Thepins 65 are distributed, for example uniformly distributed, in a circle passing through theaxis 29 a. Thedrive member 28 a is integral with acoupling member 69′ having a plurality ofrecesses 66 distributed along the circle passing throughaxis 29 a. Therecesses 66 are identical and are of complementary shape to thepins 65. Therecesses 66 are tangent to each other to form a ring, so that regardless of the relative position of thepins 65 and recesses 66 around theaxis 29 a, thepins 65 are still all at least partially in front of arespective recess 66. - The
pins 65 may have adomed end 67 to guide the act of coupling the recess on the shaft, if necessary with slight rotation of thedrive member 28 a aboutaxis 29 a by a distance at most equal to half a tooth. -
FIG. 11a shows a variant embodiment of the actuation system described above in relation toFIGS. 4a and 4b . More specifically,FIG. 11a represents the module in the drive configuration, whileFIG. 11b represents the free configuration. As one can see in these figures: -
-
drive member 28 a is fixed in the housing during its transition between the drive and free configurations, -
drive member 29 a is mounted on a support 70 (like thebracket 50 for example), which is itself mounted so as to rotate within the housing about anintermediate axis 38 during its transition between the drive and free configurations.
-
- The above description also applies to the alternative embodiment of
FIGS. 12a and 12b and to the one ofFIGS. 13a and 13 b. - In
FIG. 11a , arocker 71 is used to transmit the movement of theactuator 43 to thedrive member 29 a. Therocker 71 is mounted so as to pivot about anaxis 72, for example parallel toaxis 38. Therocker 71 has afirst arm 73 in contact with theactuator 43, and asecond arm 14 in contact with thesupport 70. - The
actuator 43 causes rotation of therocker 71, the rocker'ssecond arm 74 then pressing on thesupport 70 which causes rotation of thesupport 70 about its axis 38 (FIG. 11b ). - This movement compresses a
spring 46. - In a first variant, stopping the user actuation of the
actuator 43 automatically returns the system to the drive configuration due to the release of thespring 46. - Alternatively, a system for locking the free configuration (
FIG. 11b ) may be provided. For example, a “push-pull” system may be implemented, similar to the insertion of cards into card readers. In the free configuration, user actuation of theactuator 43 unlocks the locking system, so that the system is returned to the drive configuration by the release of thespring 46. - In the above examples, mechanical actuation of the actuator via contact by a user may be provided. Such an embodiment ensures user actuation even during power failure.
- Alternatively, as schematically represented in
FIG. 12a , use may be made of an electrically controlled actuator. In this case, for safety reasons,FIG. 12b shows the system at rest (without electrical current applied). When current is applied, theactuator 43 rotates thesupport 70 aboutaxis 38 relative to the rest position, thereby tensioning thespring 46. When power is cut off, for example to obtain a transition to the free configuration, thespring 46 pulls on thesupport 70 as shown inFIG. 12b . Also, in case of accidental power failure, the catheter can be disengaged from the mechanism. - Any type of linear actuator may be used. Fluidtightness at the controls is provided via an electrical connector.
- As discussed above, either continuously operating release controls are provided, which in case of shutdown of the controls, automatically return the system to the drive configuration, or alternatively it may be arranged to lock the system in the free configuration.
- One will also note that the
actuator 43 may act directly on thesupport 70, rather than via a rocker. - Alternatively, as shown in
FIGS. 13a, 13b , aspring 46 is not necessarily used. For example, thesupport 70 is connected directly to the actuator so that it follows the movements of the actuator. -
FIG. 7 illustrates a second embodiment, below. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in certain features. A first difference is that theconsumable part 79 which is disposable comprises the housing 16 (thecover 32 and the base 31) accommodating thedrive members actuator 44. - The
base 31 comprises afirst opening 80 a from which extends thefirst shaft 33 a and asecond opening 80 b from which extends thesecond shaft 33 b. Thesecond opening 80 b is large, to allow thesecond shaft 33 b to travel relative to the base 31 (corresponding to thesecond drive member 29 b transitioning between two configurations). - This embodiment requires a sterile connection between the
first drive member 28 a and thebase 31, to reduce the risk of catheter contamination by the mechanism and/or jamming of the mechanism by substances conveyed by the catheter. - According to one embodiment, and as can be seen in
FIG. 8 , thedrive member 28 a is integral with adeformable skirt 81, rubbing on thebase 31 and defining a closed perimeter on thebase 31. -
FIG. 8 illustrates a vertical section view of the driving of thedrive member 28 a by themotor 34. Thedrive module 14 comprises thehousing 16 and amotorized stage 51. -
FIG. 8 thus shows a medical robot comprising apermanent portion 82 and a removable portion, thepermanent portion 82 comprising amotor 34 and afirst coupling 68, theconsumable part 79, which is removable, being provided with asecond coupling 69 complementary to thefirst coupling 68. - It will be understood that where appropriate, the medical robot shown assembled in
FIG. 8 may be provided in a kit, with the permanent portion and the removable portion to be assembled thereto. The removable portion, implemented as disposable, may be available in large quantities. - The
shaft 33 a is engaged with thefirst drive member 28 a by a coupling that will be presented in detail below. - In the current case, also illustrated in
FIG. 8 is an embodiment where the module rotates thecatheter 15′ about its axis of elongation. This rotation is achieved by a translational motion of thedrive member 28 a along itsaxis 29 a. In this case, as thecatheter 15′ is clamped between thedrive members catheter 15′ to roll, thus rotating it about its axis of elongation. - In the current case, the rotation is limited to less than one turn relative to a starting position. It may be arranged that the neutral starting position is an intermediate position, thus allowing rotation of the catheter in one direction and in another, depending on the direction of translation of the
drive member 28 a. - In the example shown, the
shaft 33 a is implemented as two parts having complementary shapes which allow integral rotation of the two parts aboutaxis 29 a. The first portion is aninner core 78 integral to drivemember 28 a, and the second part is anouter casing 53 engaging with themotor 34. Furthermore, theinner core 78 is free to slide relative to theouter casing 53 alongaxis 29 a. An actuator 54 controls the movement of theinner core 78 alongaxis 29 a. An elastic means 83 such as a return spring returns thefirst drive member 28 a to a rest position alongaxis 29 a. - Controlling the
actuator 54 moves drivemember 28 a alongaxis 29 a via theinner core 78, theshaft 33 a remaining in any position engaging with themotor 34. - Actuation of the
motor 34 allows rotatingdrive member 28 a as described above. - The
skirt 81 is sufficiently long and deformable to ensure sterility at the interface between thedrive member 28 a and thebase 31 along the entire path ofdrive member 28 a alongaxis 29 a. - As is understood from the above description, in this embodiment where the consumable part comprises a reduced number of components, the
motion transmission system 35 is formed inside thehousing 84 of themotorized stage 51. - Two exemplary embodiments for integrating
gear 36 a can be provided. According to a first variant,gear 36 a is integral in translation with theshaft 33 a. In this case, theintermediate gear 37 is of sufficient thickness to always mesh withgear 36 a, regardless of its position alongaxis 29 a. Alternatively, theshaft 33 a is integral in rotation but free in translation relative to thegear 36 a. To save space, the first variant can be implemented in the embodiment ofFIGS. 4a and 4b , and the second variant can be implemented in the embodiment ofFIG. 8 . -
FIGS. 9a and 9b show details of an embodiment concerning the sealing of the robot. Recall that this is a dynamic seal, withshaft 33 a rotating to drive the catheter in translation. -
Shaft 33 a, and in particular the core 78, is integral with aseal 60. A sufficientlydeformable seal 60 is chosen so that in the uppermost position, shown inFIG. 9a , it is rubbing against thehousing 84, and in the lowermost position, shown inFIG. 9b , it is deformed so as to press against thehousing 84. This embodiment is made possible by the small rotational travel of the catheter 15 (range of rotation less than +/−180°). Indeed, in the case of a rapid exchange catheter, it is desirable to avoid large rotational travel which can cause the guide to coil outside the catheter. -
FIGS. 10a and 10b are perspective views of coupling thehousing 16 on themotorized stage 51. For simplicity, thehousing 16 is not represented in this figure. - As can be seen in
FIG. 7 ,shaft 33 a has acoupling member 68 provided with a centeringcone 61 and one (or more) meshingteeth 62. Thedrive member 28 a comprises acoupling member 69 that is complementary tocoupling member 68. In particular,coupling member 69 comprises acavity 63 complementary to the centeringcone 61, and a plurality ofdrive teeth 64, for example distributed along the entire peripheral rim. During assembly of thehousing 16 to themotorized stage 51 along a direction of assembly (substantially the direction ofaxis 29 a), the centeringcone 61 engages with thecavity 63 to guide the coupling, untiltooth 62 engages with one of theteeth 64 ofdrive member 28 a, if necessary with a slight rotation ofdrive member 28 a by the cam aboutaxis 29 a by a distance at most equal to half a tooth. - As represented in
FIG. 7 , the actuation end 44 a is not necessarily arranged at thehousing 16, but may for example be in the upper surface. In this embodiment, thecover 32 comprises awindow 85 in its upper surface, through which protrudes the actuatingend 44 a of theactuator 44 which is connected to thesecond drive member 28 b. Theactuator 44 comprises for example a contoured cover partially surrounding thesecond drive member 28 b and connected thereto, so that they can both move towards the free configuration (shaft 33 b is then moved within theopening 80 b), while allowing rotation of thesecond drive member 28 b about its axis. - According to another exemplary embodiment, a coupling may comprise a
coupling member 68 on the robot side, as shown inFIG. 14 , complementary to a coupling member on the consumable side (here again, not shown). The consumable-side coupling member is for example acoupling member 69 as illustrated above with reference toFIG. 10b . According to one feature ofcoupling member 68, the centeringcone 61 and thetooth 62 are movable relative to each other. In particular, they are mounted in translation relative to one another, in particular along the direction of assembly of the consumable portion onto the robot. - For this, one can for example have the centering
cone 61 include anouter casing 86 comprising a tapered end providing the centering function of the centeringcone 61. Theouter casing 86 also has aninner housing 87 accessible through aside opening 88 and alower opening 89. Thelower end 90 of theouter casing 86 also defines abearing 91 for a transverse axis which will be described further below. - The centering
cone 61 also comprises aninner core 92 which can be placed in theinner housing 87 from below through thelower opening 89. Theinner core 92 has an elongatedslot 93 along the direction of translation. This slot is open at the upper end of theinner core 92. Theinner core 92 also comprises abearing 96. - The
tooth 62 has aform 94 complementary to theslot 93. It has for example a recess on the two opposite main faces of the tooth. - A biasing
member 95 is mounted between thetooth 62 and theouter casing 86. This biases thetooth 62 upwardly along the direction of translation relative to thecasing 86. For example, two springs are used as the biasing member. These two springs are then arranged one on each side of theform 94. The biasingmember 95 is for example fixed to thetooth 62. For example, thetooth 62 has a bore in its lower face, for receiving an end portion of the spring. - The system just described is assembled as follows. The biasing
member 95 is compressed, and thetooth 62 carrying them is inserted through theinner housing 87 via theside opening 88 until theform 94 is within theinner housing 87. The wings of the tooth then project from each side of theouter casing 86. - The biasing
member 95 is released and presses against the outer casing 86 (on an inner face of the inner housing 87) and biases thetooth 62 upwards (position ofFIG. 14 ). - The
inner core 92 is mounted through thelower opening 89, theslot 93 engaging with theform 94. Thebearings - The assembly is mounted on the base of the
shaft 33 a, thebearings housing 97 thereof. Ashaft 98 is inserted through thehousing 97 and thebearings coupling member 68 on the base of theshaft 33 a. - In operation, the
coupling member 68 is integral in rotational with the base of theshaft 33 a, by means ofshaft 98. During coupling, if thetooth 62 does not face a complementary recess of the complementary coupling member, but a protruding surface thereof, said protruding surface moves thetooth 62 downwards relative to theouter casing 86 by compressing the biasingmember 95. During a subsequent rotation of thecoupling member 68, when thetooth 62 then faces a complementary recess of the complementary coupling member, the biasingmember 95 pushes the tooth 62 (position ofFIG. 14 ) engaged therewith. - This embodiment allows using a highly crenellated geometry in the coupling members, which allows transmitting significant torque during use.
- Thus, according to another aspect which is independent of the first, it seems that the invention relates to a robotizable module for driving an elongated flexible medical member, comprising:
-
- a
base 31, - a
first drive member 28 a defining afirst axis 29 a and comprising a first peripheral drivingsurface 30 a around saidfirst axis 29 a, thefirst drive member 28 a being mounted so as to rotate relative to the base 31 about thefirst axis 29 a, and comprising amember 33 a connecting to adrive motor 34 adapted to rotate thefirst drive member 28 a about thefirst axis 29 a,
- a
- wherein the
first drive member 28 a is also mounted so as to be movable relative to the base 31 in a translational motion along itsaxis 29 a in a translational path, - wherein the
first drive member 28 a comprises adeformable skirt 81, rubbing on the base 31 during rotation of the first drive member relative to the base, and defining a closed perimeter on thebase 31 along the entire translational path.
Claims (20)
1. A robotizable module for driving an elongated flexible medical member, comprising:
a base;
a first drive member, defining a first axis and comprising a first peripheral driving surface around said first axis,
the first drive member being mounted so as to rotate relative to the base about the first axis, and comprising a member connecting to a drive motor adapted to rotate the first drive member about the first axis;
a second drive member, defining a second axis parallel to the first axis, and comprising a second peripheral driving surface around said second axis,
the second drive member being mounted so as to rotate relative to the base about the second axis, and
the second drive member also being mounted so as to be movable relative to the first drive member, in a degree of freedom other than rotational about the second axis, between:
a first configuration wherein the first and second peripheral driving surfaces face each other with a first spacing therebetween, and
a second configuration wherein the first and second peripheral driving surfaces face each other with a second spacing therebetween that is greater than the first spacing;
an actuation system operable by a user, adapted to move the second drive member from one of the first and second configurations to an other of the first and second configurations; and
a motion transmission system for transmitting the driving movement generated by the drive motor to the second drive member in order to rotate the second drive member about the second axis at least in any configuration between the first and second configurations,
wherein the motion transmission system comprises:
a first gear that is coaxial with the first drive member and forms an input member of the motion transmission system,
an intermediate gear having an intermediate gear axis parallel to and offset from the first axis, the intermediate gear meshing with the first gear at least in any configuration between the first and second configurations, and
a transmission between the intermediate gear and the second drive member, transmitting the rotational motion of the intermediate gear about the intermediate gear axis into said rotational motion of the second drive member about the second axis,
and wherein said first drive member is fixed to a shaft that extends along said first axis and is driven by said drive motor so that said shaft establishes a connection between said drive motor and said first drive member.
2. The robotizable module according to claim 1 wherein the motion transmission system operates in the second configuration.
3. The robotizable module according to claim 1 , wherein said transmission comprises a belt which is integral in rotation both with said intermediate gear about the rotation axis of said intermediate gear and with said second drive member about the rotation axis of said second drive member.
4. The robotizable module according to claim 1 , further comprising:
an elastic system biasing the second drive member from the second configuration towards the first configuration,
wherein the actuation system is operable to move the second drive member from the first configuration and to the second configuration while compressing said elastic system.
5. The robotizable module according to claim 4 , wherein the elastic system biases the actuation system which is integral with the second drive member.
6. The robotizable module according to claim 1 , further comprising:
a locking system adapted to alternatively lock the second drive member in the second free configuration or to release the second drive member, the actuation system being adapted to control the locking system.
7. The robotizable module according to claim 1 , wherein the actuation system is electrically operable by the user.
8. The robotizable module according to claim 1 , wherein at least one drive member is also mounted so as to be movable relative to the base in a translational motion along the first axis.
9. The robotizable module according to claim 8 ,
wherein said at least one drive member is mounted so as to be movable relative to the base in a translational motion along the first axis in a translational path, and
wherein the first drive member comprises a deformable skirt, rubbing on the base during rotation of the first drive member relative to the base, and defining a closed perimeter on the base along the entire translational path.
10. The robotizable module according to claim 1 , further comprising:
a cover secured to the base and together with the base defining a housing defining an interior space in which are arranged at least a portion of the first drive member, at least a portion of the second drive member, and at least a portion of the actuation system,
wherein an actuation portion of the actuation system, a portion of the first drive member, and a portion of the second drive member extend out of the housing.
11. A medical robot kit, comprising:
a permanent portion and a removable portion,
the permanent portion comprising a motor and a first coupling, and
the removable portion comprising a robotizable module according to claim 1 , provided with a second coupling complementary to the first coupling,
wherein the first and second couplings comprise at least one cam surface adapted to rotate the first and second couplings relative to each other with respect to a direction of assembly, during assembly of the removable portion to the permanent portion along the direction of assembly.
12. The medical robot kit according to claim 11 , wherein the first coupling comprises a plurality of protrusions of concave shape, and the second coupling comprises a plurality of complementary recesses of complementary shape.
13. The medical robot kit according to claim 11 , wherein the first coupling comprises a centering cone, a protrusion that is movable relative to the centering cone in a sliding direction, and a biasing member biasing the protrusion relative to the centering cone during assembly of the removable portion to the permanent portion.
14. A medical system, comprising:
a hollow elongated flexible medical member extending along an axis of elongation; and
a medical robot according to claim 11 ,
the hollow elongated flexible medical member being held between the first and second peripheral driving surfaces of the medical robot in the first configuration, the first drive member being rotatable relative to the base about the first axis in order to generate translational motion of the elongated flexible medical member along the axis of elongation.
15. The medical system according to claim 14 , the first drive member being driven in translation relative to the base along the first axis in order to generate rotation of the elongated flexible medical member about the axis of elongation.
16. A medical system, comprising:
a hollow elongated flexible medical member extending along an axis of elongation; and
a robotizable module according to claim 1 ,
the hollow elongated flexible medical member being held between the first and second peripheral driving surfaces in the first configuration of the medical robot, the first drive member being rotatable relative to the base about the first axis in order to generate translational motion of the elongated flexible medical member along the axis of elongation.
17. The medical system according to claim 16 , the first drive member being driven in translation relative to the base along the first axis in order to generate rotation of the elongated flexible medical member about the axis of elongation.
18. The robotizable module according to claim 2 , wherein the motion transmission system comprises:
a first gear that is coaxial with the first drive member and forms an input member of the motion transmission system,
an intermediate gear having an intermediate gear axis parallel to and offset from the first axis, the intermediate gear meshing with the first gear at least in any configuration between the first and second configurations, and
a transmission between the intermediate gear and the second drive member, transmitting the rotational motion of the intermediate gear about the intermediate gear axis into said rotational motion of the second drive member about the second axis.
19. The robotizable module according to claim 2 , further comprising:
an elastic system biasing the second drive member from the second configuration towards the first configuration,
wherein the actuation system is operable to move the second drive member from the first configuration and to the second configuration while compressing said elastic system.
20. A robotizable module for driving an elongated flexible medical member, comprising:
a base;
a first drive member, defining a first axis and comprising a first peripheral driving surface around said first axis,
the first drive member being mounted so as to rotate relative to the base about the first axis and comprising a member connecting to a drive motor adapted to rotate the first drive member about the first axis;
a second drive member, defining a second axis parallel to the first axis and comprising a second peripheral driving surface around said second axis,
the second drive member being mounted so as to rotate relative to the base about the second axis, and
the second drive member also being mounted so as to be movable relative to the first drive member, in a degree of freedom other than rotational about the second axis, between:
a first configuration wherein the first and second peripheral driving surfaces face each other with a first spacing therebetween, and
a second configuration wherein the first and second peripheral driving surfaces face each other with a second spacing therebetween that is greater than the first spacing;
an actuation system operable by a user, adapted to move the second drive member from one of the first and second configurations to an other of the first and second configurations; and
a motion transmission system for transmitting the driving movement generated by the drive motor to the second drive member in order to rotate the second drive member about the second axis at least in any configuration between the first and second configurations,
wherein the motion transmission system comprises:
a first gear that is coaxial with the first drive member and forms an input member of the motion transmission system,
an intermediate gear having an intermediate gear axis parallel to and offset from the first axis, the intermediate gear meshing with the first gear at least in any configuration between the first and second configurations, and
a transmission between the intermediate gear and the second drive member, transmitting the rotational motion of the intermediate gear about the intermediate gear axis into said rotational motion of the second drive member about the second axis,
and wherein said transmission comprises a belt which is integral in rotation both with said intermediate gear about the rotation axis of said intermediate gear and with said second drive member about the rotation axis of said second drive member.
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FR1650105A FR3046543B1 (en) | 2016-01-07 | 2016-01-07 | ROBOTISABLE MODULE FOR DRIVING AN ELONGATED SOFT MEDICAL DEVICE, MEDICAL ROBOT AND SYSTEM COMPRISING SUCH A MODULE |
FR1650105 | 2016-01-07 | ||
PCT/FR2017/050028 WO2017118818A1 (en) | 2016-01-07 | 2017-01-05 | Robotizable module for driving an elongated flexible medical member, medical robot and system including such a module |
US201816068564A | 2018-07-06 | 2018-07-06 | |
US16/863,133 US20200254218A1 (en) | 2016-01-07 | 2020-04-30 | Robotizable module for driving an elongated flexible medical member, medical robot and system including such a module |
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PCT/FR2017/050028 Division WO2017118818A1 (en) | 2016-01-07 | 2017-01-05 | Robotizable module for driving an elongated flexible medical member, medical robot and system including such a module |
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2016
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2017
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2020
- 2020-04-30 US US16/863,133 patent/US20200254218A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
RU2757957C1 (en) * | 2020-12-30 | 2021-10-25 | Александр Григорьевич ВИЛЛЕР | Robotic system and method for endovascular surgery |
WO2022146194A1 (en) * | 2020-12-30 | 2022-07-07 | Александр Григорьевич ВИЛЛЕР | Robotic system and method for performing an endovascular surgical operation |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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FR3046543A1 (en) | 2017-07-14 |
KR20180103953A (en) | 2018-09-19 |
WO2017118818A1 (en) | 2017-07-13 |
CN109069212A (en) | 2018-12-21 |
US20190038872A1 (en) | 2019-02-07 |
CN109069212B (en) | 2022-02-25 |
EP3399937A1 (en) | 2018-11-14 |
FR3046543B1 (en) | 2018-02-02 |
JP6895976B2 (en) | 2021-06-30 |
JP2019503778A (en) | 2019-02-14 |
EP3399937B1 (en) | 2024-01-31 |
US11147950B2 (en) | 2021-10-19 |
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