U.S. patent application number 14/579515 was filed with the patent office on 2015-06-25 for surgical instrument arrangement and drive train arrangement for a surgical instrument, in particular a robot-guided surgical instrument, and surgical instrument.
The applicant listed for this patent is KUKA Laboratories GmbH. Invention is credited to Sebastian Lohmeier, Wolfgang Schober.
Application Number | 20150173730 14/579515 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52612500 |
Filed Date | 2015-06-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150173730 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lohmeier; Sebastian ; et
al. |
June 25, 2015 |
Surgical Instrument Arrangement And Drive Train Arrangement For A
Surgical Instrument, In Particular A Robot-Guided Surgical
Instrument, And Surgical Instrument
Abstract
A surgical instrument arrangement has a modular motor drive unit
which has a drive arrangement having at least one output element,
an instrument shaft that can be detachably connected to the drive
unit, and a drive arrangement having at least one input drive
element. The output drive arrangement and the input drive
arrangement can be coupled to each other by a mechanical interface
that has at least one single-sided linkage, a pin, and a cut-out,
wherein the pin can be radially expanded in the cut-out.
Alternatively, a gap may be formed between the pin and the cut-out,
which gap is wavy in the radial direction, and in which a radially
displaceable, axially fixed intermediate element arrangement is
arranged. The surgical instrument arrangement may also include a
sterile barrier, which is provided to envelop the drive unit and to
be arranged between the drive unit and the instrument shaft.
Inventors: |
Lohmeier; Sebastian;
(Munchen, DE) ; Schober; Wolfgang; (Pottmes,
DE) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
KUKA Laboratories GmbH |
Augsburg |
|
DE |
|
|
Family ID: |
52612500 |
Appl. No.: |
14/579515 |
Filed: |
December 22, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
PCT/EP2013/001917 |
Jun 28, 2013 |
|
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|
14579515 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
606/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 34/76 20160201;
F04C 2270/0421 20130101; A61B 2017/0046 20130101; A61B 34/30
20160201; A61B 2017/00398 20130101; A61B 17/00 20130101; A61B
2090/064 20160201; F16D 1/10 20130101; F16J 15/50 20130101; A61B
46/10 20160201 |
International
Class: |
A61B 17/00 20060101
A61B017/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jul 3, 2012 |
DE |
10 2012 013 242.5 |
Mar 11, 2013 |
DE |
10 2013 004 230.5 |
Mar 14, 2013 |
DE |
10 2013 004 487.1 |
Mar 28, 2013 |
DE |
10 2013 005 493.1 |
May 6, 2013 |
DE |
10 2013 007 761.3 |
Claims
1. An instrument shaft having an input drive link assembly with at
least one moveable input drive link for actuating a degree of
freedom of the instrument shaft, which projects, at least
substantially, perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the
instrument shaft, extending to a mounting element on the instrument
shaft for a drive unit.
2. The instrument shaft according to claim 1, wherein the mounting
element has a guide and/or an insertion opening, in particular a
lidded insertion opening, for inserting a drive unit in an
insertion direction, which is, in particular, at least
substantially, perpendicular or parallel to the longitudinal axis
of the instrument shaft.
3. The instrument shaft according to claim 1, wherein the mounting
element can be moved, in particular pivoted, in relation to a
longitudinal axis of the instrument shaft.
4. The instrument shaft according to claim 1, wherein the input
drive link assembly is disposed in a recess.
5. A surgical instrument comprising an instrument shaft according
to claim 1; and a drive unit that can be releasably connected to
the instrument shaft.
6. The surgical instrument according to claim 5, wherein a coupling
direction, in which an input drive module is moveably mounted and
pre-tensioned in a housing for the drive unit forms an angle with
the longitudinal axis of the instrument shaft, which is greater
than 0 degrees, in particular is greater than 45 degrees, in
particular is at least substantially 90 degrees.
7. The surgical instrument according to claim 6, further comprising
a drive unit locking assembly for locking the drive unit in place
on a mounting element of the instrument shaft.
8. The surgical instrument according to claim 5, further comprising
an interface for the attachment thereof to a robot.
9. A drive unit with a housing and at least one input drive module
with a drive and an output drive link assembly with at least one
moveable output drive link for actuating a degree of freedom of an
instrument shaft, which is moveably mounted and pre-tensioned in
the housing in a coupling direction.
10. The drive unit according to claim 9, further comprising a
magnet assembly for pre-tensioning the input drive module in the
coupling direction.
11. The drive unit according to claim 9, further comprising a
retraction assembly, in particular a mechanical and/or magnetic
retraction assembly, for retracting the input drive module against
the pre-tensioning.
12. The drive unit according to claim 11, further comprising an
input drive module locking assembly for locking the retracted input
drive module in place.
13. The drive unit according to claim 11, wherein the retraction
assembly can be actuated by a drive in the input drive module.
14. The drive unit according to claim 9, further comprising a
positive driving means, in particular a concave and/or moveable
positive driving means, for positively driving an input drive link
assembly of an instrument shaft when inserting the drive unit in a
mounting element of the instrument shaft.
15. The drive unit according to claim 9, wherein the output drive
link assembly is disposed in a recess.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE
[0001] This application is a continuation of International Patent
Application No. PCT/EP2013/001917, filed Jun. 28, 2013 (pending),
which claims priority to DE 10 2012 013 242.5 filed Jul. 3, 2012,
DE 10 2013 004 230.5 filed Mar. 11, 2013, DE 10 2013 004 487.1
filed Mar. 14, 2013, DE 10 2013 005 493.1 filed Mar. 28, 2013, and
DE 10 2013 007 761.3 filed May 6, 2013; and is related to U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 14/579,172 (Pending), U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/579,221 (Pending), U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 14/579,296 (Pending), U.S. patent application Ser. No.
14/579,341 (Pending), U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/579,398
(Pending), U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/579,465 (Pending),
and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/579,597 (Pending), each
filed Dec. 22, 2014, the disclosures of which are incorporated by
reference herein in their entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] One aspect of the present invention relates to a surgical
instrument assembly, a manipulator surgical system with a
manipulator-guided instrument assembly of this type, and a method
for equipping a manipulator thereof.
BACKGROUND
[0003] By way of example, a manipulator surgical system having a
manipulator-guided surgical instrument is known from EP 1 015 068
A1, the degrees of freedom of which are actuated by a drive train
assembly in the manipulator, which, in particular, makes the
attachment of the instrument to the manipulator more difficult with
respect to sterility requirements.
[0004] DE 10 2009 060 987 A1 discloses a surgical manipulator
instrument having its own drive unit for actuating degrees of
freedom for the instruments, which has a mechanical interface with
a coupling element that engages in an undercut protrusion of a
further coupling element, without addressing sterility
requirements.
SUMMARY
[0005] An object of one aspect of the present invention is to make
available an improved surgical instrument.
[0006] A further aspect of the present invention relates to a drive
train assembly for actuating at least one degree of freedom of an
end effector of a surgical instrument, in particular a robot-guided
surgical instrument, a drive module and an instrument shaft of such
an instrument, an instrument having such an instrument shaft and/or
drive module, a manipulator assembly having at least one such
instrument, which is guided by a manipulator, and a method and a
guidance means for guiding such an instrument, in particular its
drive and/or a manual teleoperation means.
[0007] A robot-guided minimally invasive surgical instrument has,
in general, an instrument shaft. With an instrument shaft partially
inserted by a trocar, a distal, or intracorporeal instrument shaft
end can still be moved by the robot in a maximum of four degrees of
freedom (three axes of rotation by the trocar point and one
translation in the direction of the shaft axis).
[0008] In order to have available more degrees of freedom in a
minimally invasive operating field, the mounting of an end effector
in an articulated manner on the distal end of the instrument shaft,
and additionally, the actuation thereof by a drive train assembly,
is known from WO 2009/079301 A1. By way of example, a clamp can be
closed, or an endoscope optics can be reoriented, in this
manner.
[0009] In order to give a teleoperator, who operates the surgical
robot, a haptic feedback from the operating field, WO 2009/079301
A1 proposes that a force-torque sensor having six axes be disposed
between the instrument shaft and the end effector bearing.
[0010] One disadvantage of this solution can be illustrated on the
basis of FIG. 34: an instrument shaft 20 is shown there, as shall
be described in greater detail below, on which an end effector, in
the form of a clamp having two blades 2.1, 2.2, is disposed. The
blade 2.1 can be adjusted in its rotational degree of freedom
q.sub.1 in relation to the instrument shaft by means of two drive
trains 21, 22 running in opposite directions, the blade 2.2 can be
adjusted in a corresponding manner. If the clamp engages with a
lumen (not shown), the reaction forces F.sub.E1 and F.sub.E2,
respectively, act thereon. These forces do not exert any forces in
the instrument shaft 20 in the constellation depicted in FIG. 34,
because their resultant force disappears. Accordingly, a
force-torque sensor, such as that proposed in WO 2009/079301 A1,
cannot transmit feedback pertaining to the forces exerted by the
clamp to the teleoperator, because it does not register any forces
or torques in the instrument shaft from the actual exerted clamping
forces F.sub.E1, F.sub.E2.
[0011] An object of one aspect of the present invention is to make
available an improved surgical instrument, and/or to improve the
control thereof.
[0012] A further aspect of the present invention relates to a
surgical instrument, in particular a robot-guided surgical
instrument, having an instrument shaft with at least one degree of
freedom and a drive unit for the actuation thereof, as well as an
instrument shaft and a drive unit.
[0013] A robot-guided surgical instrument having four dive units is
known from WO 2011/143022 A1, which are arranged on a base plate in
the manner of pie slices, and each have numerous drive modules. The
drive modules each have numerous displaceable or rotatable output
drive links for actuating input drive links of an instrument shaft
connected to the drive unit.
[0014] The drive units can each be actively telescoped in relation
to the base plate, in order to retract or extend their instrument
shaft through a common guide cannula. The output drive links are
distal in relation to the input drive links, or are in front
thereof in a coupling device, which is parallel to the longitudinal
axis of the instrument shaft, and are elastically pre-tensioned in
this distal direction, in order to ensure contact without play.
[0015] An object of one aspect of the present invention is to make
available an improved surgical instrument.
[0016] A further aspect of the present invention relates to a
surgical instrument, in particular a robot-guided and/or minimally
invasive surgical instrument, as well as a drive module and an
instrument shaft for such an instrument, and a method for the
connection thereof.
[0017] By way of example, a robot-guided, minimally invasive
instrument having an instrument shaft, is known from WO 2011/143022
A1, which is inserted into the patient by a robot through a natural
or artificial little hole. In order to actuate intracorporeal
degrees of freedom, in particular for an end effector, an
extracorporeal drive module is releasably connected to the
instrument shaft.
[0018] An object of one aspect of the present invention is to make
available an advantageous surgical instrument.
[0019] According to one aspect of the present invention, a surgical
instrument assembly, in particular a manipulator-guided surgical
instrument assembly, has a modular motor drive unit, which has an
output drive assembly with one or more output drive elements. In
the present case, an output drive element is understood to be, in
particular, a single- or multi-part element or component, which can
be directly or indirectly actuated, or adjusted in an adjustment
direction, respectively, by a motor, in particular an electric
motor, of the drive unit, and is provided for actuating a degree of
freedom of the instrument. The drive unit can be provided with
power and/or controlled in an embodiment functioning in a wireless
manner, or having wire connections.
[0020] The instrument assembly furthermore has an instrument shaft,
which is provided in one embodiment for being partially inserted in
a patient, in particular through a hole for minimally invasive
surgery, in particular also for endoscopy. The instrument shaft can
be designed such that it is partially or entirely stiff or
flexible, and/or have an end effector, in particular a scalpel, a
scissors, forceps, clamp, an optical recording and/or lighting
means, in particular a fiber optics end, a CCD chip (a so-called
"chip-on-the-tip" endoscope), an LED, or suchlike. In this respect,
it can also represent an actuatable, in particular a bendable,
endoscope of an instrument shaft, as set forth in the present
invention. An instrument shaft as set forth in the present
invention has, in general, one or more degrees of freedom, in
particular one or more degrees of freedom for positioning, in
particular for orienting, and/or for actuating, an end effector. In
a further development it has two, three, or more degrees of
freedom, in particular a rotational degree of freedom, for
orienting and/or one or more, in particular a maximum of one,
degree of freedom for actuating, in particular for opening or
closing, an end effector. For the actuation, it has a drive
assembly having one or more input drive elements. In the present
case, an input drive element is understood to be, in particular, a
single- or multi-part element or component, which can be directly
or indirectly actuated, or adjusted in an adjustment direction,
respectively, by means of an output drive element allocated
thereto, and is provided for actuating a degree of freedom of the
instrument. For this purpose it can be coupled to the end effector,
in particular in a unidirectional or bidirectional manner,
mechanically in one embodiment, in particular by means of one or
more pull cables, rods, or gearwheels, hydraulically,
pneumatically, or suchlike, wherein a unidirectional coupling is
understood, in particular, to be such a coupling by means of which
the degree of freedom can be actuated by an adjustment of the input
drive element in only one sense of direction, by means of a pull
cable in only one pulling direction, for example, and a
bidirectional coupling is understood to mean, accordingly, a
coupling, in particular, by means of which the degree of freedom
can be actuated by an adjustment of the input drive element in
opposite directions, by means of a push rod, for example, in a
pulling and a pushing direction.
[0021] The instrument shaft can be releasably connected to the
drive unit, and the output drive assembly and the drive assembly
can be coupled to one another, by means of a mechanical interface.
In a further development, the instrument shaft is releasably
connected to the drive unit, and the output drive assembly and the
drive assembly are coupled to one another by means of the
mechanical interface. The instrument assembly is then also referred
to, in short, as the instrument. In one embodiment, however, two or
more different drive units and/or two or more different instrument
shafts can also be provided, which can be selectively connected to
an instrument shaft or a drive unit, and which can differ, in
particular, in the number of actuatable degrees of freedom. For a
more compact depiction, in the present case an instrument assembly
is referred to in general as a set of one or more drive units and
one or more instrument shafts, which can be, or are, releasably
connected to one another.
[0022] The instrument assembly, or the instrument, respectively, in
particular the drive unit or the instrument shaft, is releasably
attached to a manipulator in one embodiment, and for this purpose,
can have a corresponding attachment interface in a further
development. Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention
relates to a method for equipping a manipulator, wherein one drive
unit and one instrument shaft are releasably connected to one
another, and their output drive assembly and the drive assembly are
coupled to one another by means of the mechanical interface. The
manipulator can have one or more, in particular at least six,
preferably seven or more, degrees of freedom in one embodiment, for
guiding (redundantly) the instrument, in particular for positioning
its end effector in a patient.
[0023] One factor of the present invention relates to the design of
the mechanical interface, by means of which the output drive and
drive assembly can be, or are, coupled to one another.
[0024] According to one aspect, this interface has, in each case,
one one-sided linkage between one or more pairs of output and input
drive elements allocated to one another. A one-sided linkage, or
coupling, respectively, is understood in the present case to mean,
in particular, as is typical in mechanical engineering, that a
movement of the one of the output drive and input drive elements in
one direction, or in one sense of direction, respectively, causes a
positively driven movement of the other of the output drive and
input drive elements, and a movement of the one of the output drive
and the input drive elements in the opposite direction, or the
opposing direction, respectively, conversely, does not cause
positively driven movement of the other of the output drive and the
input drive elements. In particular, a one-sided linkage can be
characterized in that only pressure forces, and no tractive forces,
can be directly or indirectly transferred between the output drive
and the input drive elements, wherein in the present case, for a
more compact depiction, anti-parallel pairs of forces, i.e.
torques, are also referred to in general as forces. A one-sided
linkage can accordingly be characterized in that only a torque in
one direction can be directly or indirectly transferred between an
output drive and an input drive element, whereas in the opposite
direction, at least substantially, no torque can be transferred.
Accordingly, a two-sided linkage is understood, in the present
case, to mean, in particular, that movements in opposing directions
of the output drive or input drive elements are transferred in a
positively driven manner to the respective other element, in
particular, direct or indirect pressure and tractive forces, or
torques in opposing directions, respectively, can be transferred
between the output drive and input drive elements.
[0025] A one-sided linkage can act advantageously via a sterile
barrier. In particular, in one embodiment an output drive element
and an input drive element allocated thereto can be disposed on
opposite sides of a sterile barrier, and be in contact therewith,
wherein at least one of the output drive and input drive elements
is not connected to the sterile barrier, or can be detached
therefrom, respectively. In this manner, a sterile barrier can be
disposed between the drive unit and the instrument shaft in a
simple and compact manner.
[0026] According to one aspect, the mechanical interface, by means
of which the output drive and drive assembly can be coupled, or are
coupled, respectively, to one another, has at least one cut-out in
each case, that is formed in an element of one or more pairs of
output drive and input drive elements allocated to one another, and
one pin in each case, which is formed on the other element of this
pair, and which can be, or is, respectively, inserted in this
cut-out. In particular, one or more output drive elements can thus
have one or more pins in each case, and the input drive elements
allocated thereto can have corresponding cut-outs. Likewise, one or
more input drive elements can each have one or more pins, and the
output drive elements allocated thereto can have corresponding
cut-outs.
[0027] According to one aspect, the pin, or pins, respectively, in
the respective cut-outs can be, or are, respectively, expanded
radially, in particular elastically and/or by separate bodies, such
that the pin can be, or is, respectively, fixed, in particular
axially and/or non-rotatably, in the cut-out. In one embodiment the
pin can be, or is, fixed in the cut-out in a friction-locking
manner, by means of the radial expansion. Additionally or
alternatively, the pin can be, or is, fixed in the cut-out in a
form-locking manner by the radial expansion. A sterile barrier can
be disposed, in particular, between the pin and the cut-out, in
particular, it can be, or is, clamped therebetween, and is thus
disposed in a simple and compact manner between the drive unit and
the instrument shaft.
[0028] In one embodiment a clamping means is provided for the
radial expansion of one or more of each of the pins inserted in a
cut-out in the mechanical interface. This clamping means can be
manually or mechanically actuated in a further development, in
particular by a separate, preferably electric motor powered,
clamping means drive. It can be actuated, in particular,
mechanically, hydraulically, pneumatically and/or by
electromagnetic means. By way of example, a clamping means drive
can be path- or force-controlled such that, after an insertion of a
pin in the cut-out, it expands radially, in particular by means of
an adjustment or actuation of the drive assembly. The pin can be
designed such that it is an integrated part, or a separate part, of
the output drive or input drive element, respectively, in
particular as a separate and/or elastic body, which is connected to
the rest of the output drive or input drive element such that it
can be released, or cannot be released, therefrom, in particular in
a material-bonded manner, preferably by means of an adhesive.
[0029] For the elastically radial expansion, the pin, in particular
its elastic body, can be made of plastic in a further development,
in particular it can be made of polyurethane and/or silicone. For a
non-elastic expansion, the pin can have one or more separate, in
particular lamellar, bodies, that can be displaced radially, in
particular that can be pivoted radially outward about an axis, or
can be displaced in a translational manner in the pins, or guided
into the rest of the output drive or input drive elements,
respectively, and by radial displacement outward, in particular by
pivoting, can radially expand the pin, as set forth in the present
invention.
[0030] In one embodiment, the pin can have a through or blind
internal bore, which is pressurized, for example, hydraulically or
pneumatically, in order to expand the pin radially. A stud in the
clamping means can be inserted in a through hole in the pin, and
have a flange on a side lying opposite a clamping means drive, the
diameter of which is greater than the through hole. By tensioning
the flange against the hole by means of the clamping means drive,
the pin can be axially compressed between the flange and the
clamping means drive, such that the pin expands radially. Likewise,
the stud can have a contour that expands radially in the axial
direction, in particular a conical contour, such that an axial
displacement of the stud in the pin expands the pin radially, in
particular in an elastic manner, or radially outward by the
displacement of separate bodies.
[0031] According to another aspect, a wavelike gap is formed in a
radial direction between the cut-out and the pin inserted therein
in which an intermediate element assembly, having one or more
intermediate elements, is disposed, which can be--in particular by
means of a cage permanently connected to the drive unit or the
instrument shaft--displaced radially, and are guided such that they
are axially fixed in place. If the pin (the cut-out) is then
displaced axially, its (their) wavelike outer (inner) wall facing
the cut-out (the pin) is displaced in a corresponding manner. This
adjusts the corresponding intermediate element in the radial
direction in a form-locking manner, which causes, on its part, a
corresponding axial displacement of the cut-out (the pin) in a
form-locking manner. In this manner, an axial displacement, in
particular, of the pin, or the cut-out, respectively, can be
transferred, in a positively driven manner, to the cut-out, or the
pin, respectively, such that it is form-locking. A sterile barrier
can be disposed, in turn, in particular between the pin and the
cut-out, in particular between the pin and the intermediate element
assembly, or between the intermediate element assembly and the
cut-out, in particular such that it is, or will be, clamped
therein, and thus, be disposed in a simple and compact manner
between the drive unit and the instrument shaft.
[0032] According to one aspect, the mechanical interface, in each
case, has a tilt lever for coupling one or more pairs of output
drive and input drive elements. In the present case, a tilt lever
is understood to be, in the typical manner, in particular, a lever,
which is rotatably supported at one location, in particular on an
end, and at a location axially spaced apart therefrom, in
particular at an opposite end, is positively driven in a
form-locking manner by a rotatable or displaceable connecting
member. A sterile barrier can be disposed, in particular, between
the tilt lever and the connecting member, in particular, it is, or
can be, clamped therebetween, and thus disposed in a simple and
compact manner between the drive unit and the instrument shaft. In
particular, an output drive element can be designed as the tilt
lever, and an input drive element allocated thereto can be designed
as the connecting member. Likewise, an input drive element can be
designed as the tilt lever, and an output drive element allocated
thereto can be designed as the connecting member.
[0033] In an embodiment of one of the aforementioned aspects, one
or more output drive elements of the output drive assembly can be
guided or actuated such that it can be adjusted in a translational
manner. By way of example, an output drive element can form an
output drive axle of a linear motor, or can be coupled to such.
Additionally, or alternatively, one or more input drive elements of
the drive assembly can be guided or actuated such that it can be
adjusted in a translational manner. By way of example, an input
drive element can form, or be coupled to, a rod, which is connected
in an articulated manner to an end effector. Likewise, an input
drive element can also, by way of example, be connected to a pull
cable for actuating a degree of freedom of an instrument.
[0034] Likewise, one or more output drive elements of the output
drive assembly can be guided or actuated such that it can be
adjusted in a rotational manner. By way of example, an output drive
element can form, or be coupled to, an output drive axle of a
rotation motor. Additionally, or alternatively, one or more input
drive elements of the drive assembly can be guided, or actuatable,
such that it can be rotationally adjusted. By way of example, an
input drive element can be a shaft, on which a pull cable is wound
for actuating a degree of freedom of an instrument.
[0035] In an embodiment of one of the aforementioned aspects, one
or more output drive elements are coupled to a coupling means such
that a translational movement by the coupling means is converted to
a rotational movement by the element. Likewise, one or more output
drive elements can be coupled to a coupling means such that a
rotational movement by the coupling means is converted to a
translational movement by the element.
[0036] Additionally or alternatively, one or more input drive
elements can be coupled with a (further) coupling means, such that
a translational movement by the element is converted to a
rotational movement by the coupling means. Likewise, one or more
input drive elements can be coupled with a (further) coupling
means, such that a rotational movement by the element is converted
to a translational movement by the coupling means.
[0037] In a further development a coupling means can have a
rotating-thrust bearing, in particular a pivot joint that can be
displaced in the connecting member in a translational manner.
Additionally or alternatively, a coupling means can have a
rotatably mounted lever or a rotatably mounted rocker, or a lever
with a pivot bearing point, which is disposed between two pickups,
such as further pivot bearing points, cable attachments or
suchlike, for example. In particular, a rotational movement of the
coupling means can be mechanically converted to a translational
movement of an output drive or input drive element in this manner.
Additionally or alternatively, a coupling means can have gear
teeth, in particular two sets of gear teeth that engage in one
another, or mesh with one another, respectively, of which, in a
further development, one is moveably mounted in a rotational
manner, and the other is likewise mounted in a rotational manner,
in particular as a combing spur gear, or in a translational manner,
in particular as a worm gear, or a pinion gear.
[0038] In an embodiment of one of the aforementioned aspects, the
instrument shaft has a flange, wherein the mechanical interface is
disposed on a surface of this flange facing an end effector. In a
further development the drive unit has a corresponding cut-out
through which the instrument shaft is inserted, which in the
present case is also referred to as a back-loading assembly.
Likewise, the mechanical interface can be disposed on a surface of
this flange facing away from the end effector, such that drive unit
can likewise be disposed on a surface of the instrument shaft
facing away from the end effector, which in the present case is
also referred to as a front-loading assembly. In an alternative
design, the mechanical interface can be disposed on a lateral
surface of the flange on the instrument shaft, which in the present
case is also referred to as a side-loading assembly.
[0039] In particular when the mechanical interface has a one-sided
linkage, one or more output drive elements and/or one or more input
drive elements can be pre-tensioned counter to their respective
adjustment directions in an embodiment, in particular by means of a
spring. In this manner, also with a one-sided linkage, an element
of the other drive element can also be displaced counter to the
linkage direction by means of the spring. Also with two-sided
linkages, such as a radially expanded pin, an intermediate element
assembly, or a tilt lever, for example, a pre-tensioning of an
output drive or input drive element counter to its adjustment
direction can advantageously reduce play.
[0040] Likewise, when a one-sided linkage is formed between an
output drive element and an input drive element allocated thereto,
in particular, a further output drive element and an input drive
element allocated thereto can be provided, the one-sided linkage of
which is in the opposite direction of a one-sided linkage to the
one output drive and input drive element. In other words, for
actuation in opposing directions, or actuation of a degree of
freedom in two opposite directions, respectively, a pair of output
drive or input drive elements acting in opposite directions can be
provided in each case. This is understood in the present case to
mean, in particular, that an actuation of an output drive element
in a pair actuates, or adjusts, respectively, the other output
drive element of this pair, in particular in a positively driven
manner, in the opposite direction. Also with two-sided linkages,
such as a radially expanded pin, an intermediate element assembly,
or a tilt lever, for example, a further output drive and input
drive element acting in the opposite direction can be provided, in
order to advantageously present a redundant and precise actuation
of the degree of freedom.
[0041] In particular, when there is a static over-determination as
a result of a pair of output drive or input drive elements acting
in opposing directions, a compensation means can be provided in an
embodiment of the present invention, in order to compensate for
tolerances. A tolerance compensation means of this type can
exhibit, in particular, an elastic resiliency in an output drive or
input drive element, in particular in its adjustment direction.
Additionally or alternatively, a coupling means coupled to an
output drive or input drive element can also exhibit an elastic
resiliency in the adjustment direction of the element. Additionally
or alternatively, a sterile barrier, disposed between the output
drive and input drive element, can also exhibit an elastic
resiliency. An elastic resiliency can be defined or formed, in
particular, by an elastic material, which displays macroscopic
deformations in normal operation, and/or by a corresponding shaping
or flexible composition, respectively, in particular a local
material weakening, preferably a constriction thereof. Likewise, a
compensation means can also have a bearing or bearing axle,
respectively, in particular pre-tensioned, that can be displaced in
an adjustment direction, in particular for a coupling means coupled
to an output drive or input drive element. Even without a static
over-determination, a tolerance compensation of this type can be
advantageous, in order to compensate for assembly or manufacturing
tolerances, for example, in a kinematic chain.
[0042] In an embodiment of one of the aforementioned aspects, a
front surface of an output drive element and/or a front surface of
an input drive element can be flat, in particular in order to
present, advantageously, a larger contact surface. Likewise, a
front surface of an output drive element and/or a front surface of
an input drive element can be convex, in particular in order to
present, advantageously, a well-defined contact region.
Additionally or alternatively, a front surface of an output drive
or input drive element can have at least one projection, and a
front surface, facing this element, of an input drive or output
drive element that can be, or is, coupled thereto can have a
corresponding cut-out, in which this projection engages.
[0043] A further aspect of the present invention relates to the
sterility of the instrument. For this, according to one aspect,
which can be combined with one or more of the preceding aspects or
embodiments, the instrument assembly, or the instrument,
respectively, has a sterile barrier, which is provided in order to
encase the drive unit, in particular in an airtight manner, and is
to be disposed between the drive unit and the instrument shaft, or,
respectively, which encases the drive unit in a sterile manner, and
is disposed between the drive unit and the instrument shaft. The
sterile barrier can be designed in the manner of a foil and/or as a
single use, or disposable, article in a further development.
[0044] According to one aspect, the sterile barrier has a cuff in
the region of the mechanical interface, in an adjustment direction
of the output drive and input drive assembly. The cuff can be
formed by a sleeve in one embodiment, which extends in an axial
adjustment direction, which rolls up or rolls out, or is inverted
when the output drive or input drive element is adjusted axially.
In general, the cuff is understood, in particular, to be a excess
material of the sterile barrier, in order to compensate for, or to
accompany, respectively, in particular translational, actuations of
the output drive or input drive elements, which is stored in a
folded or rolled-up manner during one adjustment state, and is
unfolded or unrolled in another adjustment state.
[0045] In one embodiment, the cuff can be designed such that it is
pre-tensioned. In this case, this means that the cuff becomes
elastically deformed counter to the pre-tensioning during an
adjustment movement, or actuation, respectively, of the output
drive or input drive element, and with a movement in the opposite
direction, returns to the pre-tensioned state. In this regard, in
the present case, for a more concise explanation, an excess of
material, in particular, which is provided to compensate for an
actuation of an output drive or input drive element, is referred to
in general as the cuff, which can either be pre-tensioned or
without tension, or loose, respectively. In a further development,
the cuff has a bellows, the pleating of which induces a
pre-tensioning in a fundamental configuration. The pleating, or the
bellows, respectively, can extend in one embodiment in an
adjustment direction and/or transverse thereto, by means of which
corresponding fundamental configurations and deformations can be
depicted.
[0046] According to one aspect, the sterile barrier has at least
one seal in the region of the mechanical interface that can be
displaced without contact in a translational manner. This can be
designed, in particular, in the manner of a gap seal or a labyrinth
seal, and is preferably telescopic, i.e. it comprises two or more
components that can be axially displaced relative to one another,
and which form a seal, in particular races, preferably concentric
races. Advantageously, actuations with weaker dissipation can be
depicted by means of such contact-free translational seals. In a
further development, in a contact-free translational seal, a
transference of forces is dissipated via the sterile barrier
instead of being conveyed thereby.
[0047] As has already been explained above, the sterile barrier can
have a compensation means to compensate for tolerances, in
particular an elastic resiliency. In a further development this
can, in particular, exhibit a local thickening of the walls for
this purpose, in a contact region of an output drive and/or input
drive element, in particular a one-sided linkage, in order to make
available a more elastic path. In a further development the elastic
resiliency, in particular a local thickening of the walls, can
exhibit a greater stiffness than a surrounding region of the
sterile barrier, in order to improve the transference behavior. For
this, the sterile barrier can have a local material modification in
an embodiment of the present invention in a contact region of an
input drive and/or output drive element, in particular, locally, a
material having a greater or lesser stiffness than in a surrounding
area of the contact region.
[0048] According to one aspect, the sterile barrier has at least
one element extension in the region of the mechanical interface.
This is can be, or is, respectively, attached in a releasable
manner to an output drive base in one embodiment, which penetrates
the sterile barrier in a destructive manner, and forms, together
with the element extension, an output drive element. Likewise, an
element extension can be, or is, respectively, releasably attached
to an input drive element base, which penetrates the sterile
barrier in a destructive manner, and, together with the element
extension, forms an input drive element. By way of example, a
sterile, in particular a sterilized, input drive element base of
the drive assembly for the sterile instrument shaft can penetrate
the sterile barrier in a destructive manner, and be connected to
the element extension on the side facing away from the instrument
shaft, which is then coupled inside the sterile barrier, or sterile
casing, respectively, to the output drive element allocated
thereto. Likewise, a sterile element extension can be disposed on
the sterile barrier on the instrument shaft side, such that it
makes contact in a sterile manner, before an output drive element
base penetrates the sterile barrier in a destructive manner, and is
connected to the element extension on the side facing the
instrument shaft. In this manner, the sterility, in each case, of
the instrument shaft can be ensured when coupled to a drive unit
that is not sterile, which is encased by the sterile barrier.
[0049] A further aspect of the present invention relates to the
attachment of a drive unit and an instrument shaft to one another.
For this, according to one aspect, which can be combined with one
or more of the preceding aspects or embodiments, respectively, the
instrument assembly, or the instrument, respectively, has an
attachment element for establishing a releasable connection to the
drive unit, which is provided such that is can be disposed,
preferably exclusively from the outside, on one of the surfaces of
the sterile barrier facing away from the drive unit, or which is
disposed exclusively on a surface of the sterile barrier facing
away from the drive unit. The attachment element can be connected
to the instrument shaft in a releasable manner, in particular in a
form-locking or friction-locking manner, or it can be connected in
a non-releasable manner, such that it is clipped thereto, or is an
integral part thereof. The sterile barrier is closed in one
embodiment, at least in the contact region with the attachment
element, preferably in the region of the entire mechanical
interface; in particular, it can be clamped between locking
projections and/or cut-outs by the drive unit and the attachment
element without damage thereto, or without forming holes therein.
In this manner, no sealing is necessary when attaching the
instrument shaft to the encased drive unit. In a further
development, the attachment element is designed accordingly without
seals.
[0050] The attachment element can, in particular, be designed
separately as a sterile disposable article, or an adapter that can
be sterilized, and can be, or is, respectively, attached to the
drive unit in a friction-locking and/or form-locking manner, in
particular by means of a clip connection. In particular in
combination with a one-sided linkage, the attachment and coupling
functionalities can thus be separated, and divided between the
attachment element and the interface.
[0051] According to one aspect of the present invention, a surgical
instrument has an instrument shaft, on which an end effector is
disposed, and a drive module having a drive for actuating one or
more degrees of freedom of the end effector in relation to the
instrument shaft. The instrument shaft and drive module can be, or
are, respectively, connected, in particular in a releasable manner,
to one another in one embodiment. In a further development, a
sterile barrier is disposed between the instrument shaft and the
drive module, in particular in order to shield a drive that is more
poorly sterilizable, or not sterilizable, against a surgical
environment. The surgical instrument is a minimally invasive
surgical instrument in one embodiment, the instrument shaft of
which is provided, or designed, for the partial insertion in a
patient, in particular by means of a trocar and/or a local access
point, the circumference of which, in one embodiment, corresponds
at most to twice the outer circumference of the instrument shaft
part that is to be inserted.
[0052] The instrument can, in particular, be a manipulator-guided
instrument. For this, the instrument shaft and/or the drive module
has, in one embodiment, a mechanical and/or signal-based interface
for the coupling thereof to a manipulator. Accordingly, according
to one aspect of the present invention, a manipulator assembly
having one or more manipulators, in particular robots having six or
multiple axes, which guide an inventive surgical instrument, is
placed under protection.
[0053] The end effector has one, two or more translational degrees
of freedom, and/or one, two or more rotational degrees of freedom
with respect to, or in relation to, the instrument shaft. In one
embodiment, the single-piece end effector has a translational or
rotational degree of freedom, and is designed, by way of example,
as an extendable needle or a rotatable scalpel blade. In another
embodiment, the two-piece end effector has two rotational degrees
of freedom, and is designed, by way of example, as a scissors, a
clamp, or suchlike. Likewise, the end effector can, in particular,
have an optics system for transmitting and/or receiving
electromagnetic radiation, in particular a laser emission or
endoscope lens, and/or an opening for suctioning off and/or
removing gas and/or fluids, which can be rotated about one or more
axes of degrees of freedom and/or can be retracted or extended.
[0054] The drive has one or more motors in one embodiment, in
particular electric motors, for actuating the degree(s) of freedom
of the end effector. Additionally or alternatively, the drive can
also have electromagnetic, hydraulic and/or pneumatic
actuators.
[0055] In order to actuate an end effector, in particular by means
of a drive, a drive train assembly is provided according to one
aspect of the present invention. This can be disposed in one
embodiment as an instrument shaft-side drive train assembly on, in
particular in, an instrument shaft of an, in particular, minimally
invasive and/or manipulator-guided, surgical instrument.
Additionally or alternatively, an inventive drive train assembly
can be disposed as a drive module-side drive train assembly on, in
particular in, a drive module of an, in particular, minimally
invasive and/or manipulator-guided, surgical instrument.
Accordingly, according to one aspect of the present invention, an
instrument shaft and a drive module having an inventive drive train
assembly are placed under protection.
[0056] A drive train assembly according to one aspect of the
present invention has one or more drive trains for actuating one or
more degrees of freedom of an end effector of a surgical instrument
in relation to an instrument shaft by means of a drive.
[0057] A drive train can, in one embodiment, at least
substantially, transfer only tractive forces, or, respectively, be
designed as a flexible drive train, in particular as a pull cord,
or cable, respectively. In another embodiment, a drive train can
transfer pressure forces, in particular, at least substantially,
only pressure forces or both tractive and pressure forces, in
particular as a push bar or rod, or as a tappet. Likewise, a drive
train can also, in one embodiment, at least substantially, transfer
only torques and/or exhibit a gear ratio and/or a gearing. In one
embodiment, a drive train is designed as a solid shaft or a hollow
shaft, or as a solid rod or a hollow rod. In general, a drive
train, as set forth in the present invention, transfers forces
and/or movements, in particular mechanically, between the drive and
the end effector, in particular in order to actuate these in a
degree of freedom in relation to the instrument shaft.
[0058] According to one aspect of the present invention, a metering
assembly is disposed on the drive train assembly for registering a
load to one or more, in particular all, of the drive trains.
[0059] As a result, one or more so-called active, or generalized
loads that act on the degree(s) of freedom of the end effector can
be registered, preferably directly. A generalized or minimal force
is understood to mean, in the present case, in particular in the
normal manner, a load that, in the case of a, potentially virtual,
movement in the degree of freedom provides physical, or potentially
virtual, work. By way of example, the generalized force in a
rotational degree of freedom is a torque about the axis of the
rotational degree of freedom. Accordingly, a load as set forth in
the present invention can, in particular, comprise, in particular
be, a force, an anti-parallel pair of forces, or a torque,
respectively, a tension, in particular a tractive, pressure, and/or
bending tension, and/or an, in particular elastic, deformation
resulting from such forces, torques, or tensions, respectively, in
particular an elongation or compression.
[0060] This in turn can be explained in an illustrative manner,
using FIG. 34 as an example: the clamping force F.sub.E1 causes a
torque about the pivot bearing axis of the blade 2.1 having the
rotational degree of freedom q.sub.1. This in turn results in
corresponding loads F.sub.S1, F.sub.S2 in the instrument shaft-side
drive trains 21, 22, and this in turn results in loads F.sub.1,
F.sub.2 in the drive module-side drive trains 21, 22. One can see
that the active, or generalized, loads are registered directly by a
metering assembly on the drive trains 21, 22 and/or on the drive
trains 11, 12, which act on the degrees of freedom of the end
effector, and thus, in particular, can transmit an advantageous
feedback from the operating field to the teleoperator. As a matter
of course, in one embodiment, the surgical instrument can
additionally have a metering assembly for registering a load in the
instrument shaft, in particular between the instrument shaft and
the end effector (bearing), and/or between the instrument shaft and
the drive module, in order to register so-called passive loads as
well, in addition to the active loads, in particular support or
bearing loads. If, for example, the clamp in FIG. 34, in the
depicted constellation, pushes its tips vertically downward, then
pure bearing loads result in the pivot joints of the blades 2.1,
2.2 thereby, which are registered via such an additional metering
assembly for registering a load in the instrument shaft 20, and
these loads are further processed; in particular they can be
transmitted to the teleoperator.
[0061] In one embodiment, there may be a further advantage in that
the metering assembly for registering at least one load in the
drive train assembly is disposed on the drive train assembly, and
thus preferably in the interior of the instrument shaft, or on, in
particular in, a drive module, and thus an advantageous, in
particular a protected, metering location and/or a metering
location that is removed from the operating field, or the end
effector, in particular an extracorporeal metering location and/or
a metering location in the proximity of the drive, can be made
available.
[0062] In one embodiment of the present invention, the drive train
assembly has two or more drive trains, in particular in opposing
directions, for actuating the same degrees of freedom of the end
effector. This is illustrated in an exemplary manner in FIG. 34:
there, the blade 2.1 is actuated in its degree of freedom q.sub.1
by the drive trains 21, 22 acting in opposing directions, these
being, for example, two pull cables or push rods, which in turn are
actuated in a translational manner by the drive trains 11, 12
acting in opposing directions, these being tappets, for example,
which are actuated in opposing directions by an electric motor
13.
[0063] In one embodiment example, the metering assembly has at
least one metering means, which is disposed on one of the drive
trains for registering a load in this drive train. In a further
development, the metering assembly has a first metering means,
which is disposed in a first drive train for registering a load in
this drive train, and a second metering means, which is disposed in
a second drive train, in particular a drive train acting in the
opposite direction, for registering a load in this drive train,
wherein the same degree of freedom of the end effector can be
actuated by the first and the second drive train.
[0064] In one embodiment, the drive train assembly has a first
drive train for actuating a first degree of freedom of the end
effector, and another first drive train for actuating another
degree of freedom of the end effector. In a further development,
the drive train assembly can have a second drive train for
actuating the first degree of freedom of the end effector and/or
another second drive train for actuating the other degree of
freedom of the end effector. As a matter of course, the end
effector can have further degrees of freedom and corresponding
first and, potentially, second drive trains.
[0065] In a further development, the metering assembly has a first
metering means, which is disposed on the first drive train for
actuating the first degree of freedom of the end effector, for
registering a load in this drive train. Additionally or
alternatively, the metering assembly has a second metering means,
which is disposed on the second drive train for actuating the first
degree of freedom of the end effector, in particular acting in the
opposite direction, for registering a load in this drive train.
Additionally or alternatively, the metering assembly has another
first metering means, which is disposed on the other first drive
train for actuating the other degree of freedom of the end
effector, for registering a load in this drive train. Additionally
or alternatively, the metering assembly has another second metering
means, which is disposed on the other second drive train for
actuating the other degree of freedom of the end effector, in
particular acting in the opposite direction, for registering a load
in this drive train.
[0066] In one embodiment there are two or more metering means,
which are disposed on two drive trains for actuating the same
degrees of freedom of the end effector, in particular in opposing
directions, coupled together by signal-based technology. They can
be connected to one another in particular by means of electric
lines, or, in particular in a control means, they are, or can be,
linked by means of a computer, in particular in an additive or
subtractive manner.
[0067] As a result, in one embodiment, in particular a shared load,
in particular a pre-tensioning, can be compensated for by means of
signals, at least substantially, in two drive trains for actuating
the same degree of freedom, and thus, preferably, the resulting
active, or generalized, load can be determined in a direct manner.
In general, in one embodiment a first and a second metering means,
which are disposed on two drive trains for actuating the same
degree of freedom of the end effector, in particular in opposing
directions, are linked to one another in a compensatory manner. A
compensatory linking is understood to mean a linking of the signals
from the first and second metering means, such that a predefined
load, in particular a load in a predefined direction, is
compensated for at least substantially, or, respectively, the
common, linked signal of the first and second metering means, at
least substantially, is independent of the load, which is
registered by both the first as well as the second metering
means.
[0068] In particular for this, the first and second metering means,
which are disposed on a first or second drive train for actuating
the same degree of freedom, can be linked to one another in two
branches of a Wheatstone bridge circuit, in particular in two
branches of a Wheatstone half-bridge circuit, which preferably lie
in a series between a bridge input or supply voltage. In a further
development, the metering assembly can have a third metering means,
which, in particular, is disposed opposite the first metering means
on the first drive train for registering a load in this drive
train, and a fourth metering means, which is disposed, in
particular, opposite the second metering means, on the second drive
train for registering a load in this drive train, wherein the first
metering means in a first branch, the second metering means in a
second branch, in particular interposed in a bridge input or supply
voltage in a series with the first metering means, the third
metering means in a third branch, interposed in the supply or
excitation voltage, in particular in parallel to the second
metering means, and the fourth metering means in a fourth branch,
interposed in the supply voltage, in particular in parallel to the
first metering means, are linked to one another in an electric
circuit, in particular a Wheatstone full-bridge circuit. As a
result, in one embodiment, not only shared loads, but also
different types of loads, in particular bending loads, in the same
drive train can already be compensated for, at least substantially,
by means of signal-based technology. Additionally or alternatively,
loads that have been registered can be amplified in terms of their
signals, in particular in that load components corresponding to one
another, which are registered by different metering means, are
combined through the linking.
[0069] One metering means of the metering assembly can, in one
embodiment, have one or more strain meters for registering a
mechanical load, in particular by electrical, magnetic, optical
and/or acoustic means. These meters can, in particular, be,
preferably foil-type, strain meter strips, the resistances of which
preferably change with their elastic elongation, semi-conductor
strain meters, optical, preferably fiber type, strain meters, in
particular strain meters based on Bragg or Fabry-Perot technology,
such as FBG strain meters ("Fiber Bragg Grating"), acoustic strain
meters, such as, in particular, so-called SAW strain meters
("Surface Acoustic Wave"), piezoelectric or magnetoelastic signal
transmitters, or suchlike.
[0070] In one embodiment, one or more metering means of the
metering assembly are disposed on a drive train for registering, at
least substantially, an axial tractive and/or pressure load in this
drive train. By way of example, a strain meter strip can be, at
least substantially, disposed, or oriented, respectively, in the
longitudinal direction on a pull cable or push rod.
[0071] In one embodiment, one or more metering means of the
metering assembly are disposed, at least substantially, in a
cut-out in a drive train. As a result, the metering assembly can be
protected in one embodiment. Additionally or alternatively, a
protrusion of the metering assembly over the outer edge of the
drive train(s) can be reduced, in particular it can be prevented,
which can facilitate the manipulation, in particular the operation
and/or assembly, thereof.
[0072] Additionally or alternatively, the wall thickness of the
drive train can be reduced in the region of one or more metering
means, in particular by the cut-out described above. As a result,
the sensitivity of the metering assembly can be increased in one
embodiment. In one embodiment, in order to reduce the thickness of
the wall, the drive train can have a hollow chamber in the region
of one or more metering means, in particular an expansion of a
hollow chamber. In a further development, the drive train can have
a, preferably thin-walled, sleeve, which has one or more metering
means of the metering assembly disposed on the outer and/or inner
surface thereof. The sleeve can be connected to the drive train
with other components, in particular rods or shafts having a solid
cross-section, in a material bonded manner, in particular by means
of welding or adhesive.
[0073] In one embodiment, an inventive drive train assembly is
disposed on, in particular in, a drive module of a surgical
instrument, to which an instrument shaft, which has an end
effector, can be connected, in particular in a releasable manner.
The drive module-side drive train assembly can have, in particular,
a mechanical interface for the coupling of an instrument shaft-side
drive train assembly, for actuating an end effector, thereto. A
drive module-side drive train can have, in particular, a shaft of
an electric motor of the drive, or be coupled to this shaft, in
particular in an articulated manner. Loads that are spaced far
apart from the end effector, in particular extracorporeal loads,
preferably behind a sterile barrier, or in a sterile housing of the
drive module, respectively, can be registered in an advantageous
manner by means of a drive module-side metering assembly.
[0074] Additionally or alternatively, an inventive drive train
assembly can be disposed in one embodiment on, in particular in, an
instrument shaft of a surgical instrument having an end effector,
with which a drive module, which has a drive, can be connected, in
particular in a releasable manner. The instrument shaft-side drive
train assembly can have, in particular, a mechanical interface, for
coupling a drive module-side drive train assembly thereto, which is
coupled to the drive. Preferably, loads in the proximity of the end
effector can be registered directly by means of an instrument
shaft-side metering assembly.
[0075] A drive module-side drive train assembly and an instrument
shaft-side drive train assembly, on at least one of which a
metering assembly is disposed for registering loads in this drive
train, are coupled, or releasably coupled, respectively, to one
another in one embodiment of the present invention.
[0076] They can be coupled, or are coupled, respectively, to one
another, in one embodiment, in a translational manner. In the
present case, in particular, this is understood to mean that a
drive module-side drive train, and an instrument shaft-side drive
train coupled thereto, are moveable, or are moved, respectively, in
a translational manner on the interface, in order to actuate a
degree of freedom of the end effector, wherein this translational
movement is, or can be, converted to a rotational movement in other
drive module-side and/or instrument shaft-side drive trains.
Likewise, a drive module-side drive train, and an instrument
shaft-side drive train coupled thereto, can be, or are, coupled to
one another in a rotational manner on the interface, wherein this
rotational movement in the interface is, or can be, converted to a
translational movement in other drive module-side drive train
and/or instrument shaft-side drive train.
[0077] In one embodiment, a drive module-side drive train assembly
and an instrument shaft-side drive module assembly, on at least one
of which a metering assembly is disposed for registering loads in
this drive train, can be coupled, or are releasably coupled,
respectively, in a one-sided manner via an interface. In the
present case, this is understood to mean that a drive module-side
drive train, and an instrument shaft-side drive train coupled, or
that can be coupled, thereto, have a so-called one-sided linkage,
or, respectively, that only forces or torques in one direction can
be transferred, in particular, only pressure forces. In a further
development, a drive module-side drive train and an instrument
shaft-side drive train that is, or can be, coupled thereto, have
tappets lying opposite one another, preferably flush, on the
interface, which are mounted such that they can be displaced, and
only transfer, at least substantially, pressure forces to one
another.
[0078] In one embodiment, a drive module-side drive train assembly,
and an instrument shaft-side drive train assembly that is, or can
be, coupled thereto, are coupled via a, preferably foil-type and/or
flexible, sterile barrier. The sterile barrier can, in one
embodiment, accompany translational movements of the drive train
assembly on the interface with, preferably elastic, deformation
thereof, and/or have moveable, in particular displaceably and/or
rotatably mounted coupling elements.
[0079] As explained above, in one embodiment, preferably an active
or generalized load can be directly registered by means of an
inventive metering assembly, and thus improve a feedback to a
teleoperator. Accordingly, according to one aspect of the present
invention, a manual teleoperation means for a surgical instrument
is controlled on the basis of one or more loads registered by the
measurement assembly, wherein, for a more compact depiction, a
regulating is also referred to in general as controlling as set
forth in the present invention. A manual teleoperation means can
have, in particular, one or more levers, handles, gloves,
joysticks, or a so-called mirroring-instrument, the movements of
which are coupled, preferably in a control manner, to the movements
of the surgical instrument. Based on the loads registered by the
metering assembly, a teleoperation means of this type can be
actuated, in particular by means of a motor, in order to transmit a
haptic feedback pertaining to the surgical process to the
teleoperator. In particular, forces acting on the end effector can
be exerted on the teleoperation means on the basis of loads that
have been registered by the metering assembly, in order to transmit
a force-feedback to the teleoperator.
[0080] Additionally or alternatively, loads registered by the
metering assembly can also be used to control, in particular to
regulate, the drive. By way of example, a target force that is to
be exerted by a motor can be compared with an actual force in a
drive train, and the motor can be regulated based on this
comparison.
[0081] Accordingly, according to one aspect of the present
invention, a control means for controlling a surgical instrument is
configured to further process one or more loads registered by the
metering assembly, in particular to control the drive and/or a
manual teleoperation means on the basis of loads registered by the
metering assembly. A means as set forth in the present invention
can be designed in the manner of hardware and/or software, in
particular it can have a central processing unit (CPU), in
particular a microprocessor, preferably connected to a memory
and/or bus system for transferring signals or data, in particular
in a digital manner, and/or it can have one or more programs or
program modules. The CPU can be configured to process commands,
which are implemented in the form of a program stored in a memory
system, to detect input signals from a data bus, and/or to transmit
output signals to a data bus. A memory system can have one or more,
in particular different, storage media, in particular optical,
magnetic, solid state and/or other nonvolatile media. The program
can be created such that it embodies the method described herein,
or is capable of executing said method, such that the CPU can
execute the steps of such a method, and can thus control the drive
and/or the teleoperation means.
[0082] According to one aspect of the present invention, a surgical
instrument has an instrument shaft and a drive unit that can be
connected, in particular is connected, thereto in a releasable
manner. The instrument is a robot-guided instrument in one
embodiment. For this, in a further development, the instrument
shaft and/or the drive unit have/has an interface, in particular a
mechanical, signal and/or energy based, in particular electric,
hydraulic and/or pneumatic, interface, for the attachment thereof
to a robot. In one embodiment, the instrument is a minimally
invasive surgical instrument, the instrument shaft of which is
provided for partial insertion in a patient through a local,
natural or artificial, hole, in particular through a body orifice,
or through a trocar.
[0083] An instrument shaft according to one embodiment of the
present invention has one or more degrees of freedom. In one
embodiment, the instrument shaft exhibits a tube, in particular an
at least substantially cylindrical tube. A degree of freedom of the
instrument shaft can then, in particular, be an articulation degree
of freedom for a joint between two tube sections, or an elastic
degree of freedom for a flexible tube. In one embodiment, the
instrument shaft has an end effector, in particular a forceps,
clamp or clips, a scalpel, a drill, a needle or cannula for
removing and/or introducing gases and/or fluids, and/or an optics
system for transmitting and/or receiving electromagnetic radiation,
in particular a fiber optics end of an endoscope or a laser. A
degree of freedom of the instrument shaft can then be, in
particular, a degree of freedom of the end effector, in particular
a translational or rotational degree of freedom with respect to the
tube, or a functional degree of freedom, in particular for opening
or closing a forceps, clamp, clip, cannula and/or optics system, or
suchlike. A functional degree of freedom as set forth in the
present invention can, in particular, describe a movement
possibility for two parts of an end effector in relation to one
another. In one embodiment, the tube can have a rotational degree
of freedom with respect to a proximal instrument housing of the
instrument shaft.
[0084] In order to actuate a degree of freedom, the instrument
shaft has one or more input drive links, in particular acting in
opposing directions. An input drive link, in one embodiment, is
mounted in an interface of the instrument shaft such that it is
translational, or can be displaced, respectively, and/or is
rotational, or can be rotated, respectively, in order to actuate a
translational or rotational movement of a degree of freedom of the
instrument shaft. For this purpose, it can be coupled to a tube
(part) or end effector of the instrument shaft, in particular by a
push rod, a pull cable or cable drum, and/or a gearing, in
particular for converting translational and rotational movements
into one another. In one embodiment, the instrument shaft, in
particular an interface of the instrument shaft for coupling with
the drive unit, has an input drive link assembly with numerous
input drive links. In a further development, at least one degree of
freedom of the instrument shaft can be actuated in opposing
directions by two input drive links, in particular acting in
opposing directions, for example a pivotable end effector can be
pivoted up and down by means of two push rods running in opposite
directions.
[0085] A drive unit according to one embodiment of the present
invention has a housing and one or more drive modules. At least one
drive module, preferably all drive modules, exhibits, in each case,
a drive and an output drive link assembly having one or more
moveable output drive links. The drive can have, in particular, an
electromagnetic, hydraulic, or pneumatic rotational or linear
motor, in particular, it can be an electric motor.
[0086] In one embodiment, the drive actuates exactly one output
drive link. In another embodiment, the drive actuates two output
drive links, in particular in opposing directions. One or more
output drive links are mounted in one embodiment in an interface of
the drive module, such that they are translational, or can be
displaced, respectively, and/or rotational, or can be rotated,
respectively, in order to actuate a degree of freedom of the
instrument shaft by means of a translational or rotational
movement. The output drive link and input drive link assemblies can
be, or are, directly, or via a coupling, coupled in a one-sided
manner in one embodiment. This is understood to mean, in the normal
sense, that forces can only be transferred in one actuation
direction from the output drive link to the input drive link, while
the output drive link and the input drive link can distance
themselves from one another in opposite directions. In a further
development, one output drive link assembly has two output drive
links that are actuated in opposing directions, in particular two
push rods, which can be, or are coupled, directly or by means of a
coupling, at one end to corresponding input drive links running in
opposite directions. In another embodiment, the output drive link
assembly and the input drive link assembly can be, or are, coupled
directly or via a coupling, in a two-sided manner. This is
understood to mean, accordingly, that forces in two opposing
actuation directions can be transferred from the output drive link
to the input drive link. In a further development, one output drive
link assembly has a rotatable output drive link, in particular an
output drive shaft of an electric motor or gearing, which can be,
or is, non-rotatably coupled to a corresponding rotatable input
drive link. For a more compact depiction, in the present case an
anti-parallel pair of forces, i.e. a torque, is also referred to in
general as a force.
[0087] According to one aspect of the present invention, one or
more drive modules in the, in particular closed, housing of the
drive unit are each moveably mounted and pre-tensioned in a
coupling direction, or against the input drive link assembly. The
coupling directions of two, preferably all, drive modules can be,
at least substantially, parallel. Likewise, the coupling directions
of two drive modules can form an angle, which is preferably less
than 90 degrees, and in particular is less than 45 degrees.
[0088] In that the individual output drive links are not
pre-tensioned, or not only the individual output drive links are
pre-tensioned, as is proposed in WO 2011/143022 A1, specified in
the introduction, but rather, according to this aspect,
exclusively, or additionally, the drive module in the housing, and
as a result, its output drive link assembly as a whole, is
pre-tensioned, the coupling between the output drive assembly and
the input drive assembly can be improved in one embodiment.
[0089] Additionally or alternatively, the weight, the installation
space, and/or the expenditure can be reduced, and/or the operation
thereof can be improved.
[0090] In one embodiment, a drive module has a hydraulic, pneumatic
and/or elastic tensioning means, in particular at least one
hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder and/or one compression and/or
tractive spring, for pre-tensioning, which restrains the drive
module in the housing, and is pre-tensioned in the coupling
direction, or against the input drive link assembly, respectively.
A hydraulic or pneumatic tensioning means can be designed such that
it is switched on and off in a further development, in particular
in a pressureless state, in which it, at least substantially,
exerts no force. Advantageously the adjustment of the drive module
in the housing, after removal of the excess pressure in a hydraulic
or pneumatic tensioning means, does not require any appreciable
operating force.
[0091] Additionally or alternatively, in one embodiment, a drive
module can have a magnet assembly for pre-tensioning the drive
module. The magnet assembly can have one or more permanent magnets
or electromagnets, which are disposed on either the housing or the
drive module. The other, either the drive module or the housing,
can have one or more additional electromagnets and/or magnetically
hard or soft regions, in particular at least one further permanent
magnet, preferably lying opposite the permanent magnets or
electromagnets, and which are magnetically attracted or repelled by
these, either permanently, or when they are subjected to
current.
[0092] In one embodiment, at least one permanent magnet or
electromagnet is disposed on the housing on a side facing away from
the instrument shaft, and, preferably lying opposite this, at least
one further electromagnet or a magnetically hard or soft region, in
particular at least one further permanent magnet, is disposed on
the drive module. Additionally or alternatively, at least one
permanent magnet or electromagnet can be disposed on the housing on
a side facing the instrument shaft, and, preferably lying opposite
this, at least one further electromagnet or a magnetically hard or
soft region, in particular at least one further permanent magnet,
can be disposed on the drive module. Additionally or alternatively,
at least one permanent magnet or electromagnet can be disposed on
the drive module on a side facing away from the instrument shaft,
and, preferably lying opposite this, at least one further
electromagnet or a magnetically hard or soft region, in particular
at least one further permanent magnet, can be disposed on the
housing. Additionally or alternatively, at least one permanent
magnet or electromagnet can be disposed on the drive module on a
side facing the instrument shaft, and, preferably lying opposite
this, at least one further electromagnet or a magnetically hard or
soft region, in particular at least one further permanent magnet,
can be disposed on the housing. The drive module can be
pre-tensioned in the housing against the input drive link assembly
by means of the magnetic attraction or repulsion occurring between
them.
[0093] While the pre-tensioning force decreases as the number of
adjustments to the drive module in the housing increases with a
pre-tensioning by a tensioning means, for example as a result of
the relaxing of a mechanical spring or an increase in volume in a
hydraulic or pneumatic volume, an (electro)magnetic pre-tensioning
can advantageously increase with the increasing number of
adjustments to the drive module in the housing.
[0094] In a further development, the magnet assembly has one or
more electromagnets that can be, selectively, in particular in a
controlled manner, subjected to current. In this manner, the
pre-tensioning can be exerted selectively, in particular in a
controlled manner. For the purpose of a more compact depiction, in
the present case a regulation, i.e. the specification of a control
variable on the basis of a registered actual variable, is also
referred to in general as a control thereof.
[0095] In one embodiment, the magnet assembly has one or more,
preferably non-magnetic, spacer elements, which prevent a direct
contact between an electromagnet or a permanent magnet, on either
the housing for the drive unit or the drive module, and a
magnetically soft or hard region, in particular a (further)
permanent magnet on the other of either the housing of the drive
unit or the drive module, in order to thus avoid a magnetic short
circuit, the release of which would require excessive force.
[0096] During or after the coupling of the output drive assembly
and the input drive assembly, or the drive unit and the instrument
shaft, respectively, according to the aspect explained above, the
pre-tensioning of the drive module must be built up.
[0097] This can result, in one embodiment, as explained above, from
selectively subjecting one or more electromagnets in the magnet
assembly to a current. In this manner, an operator advantageously,
particularly with the high demands in running an operating theater,
need only exert a small amount of force in order to couple the
drive unit to the instrument shaft.
[0098] Additionally or alternatively, in one embodiment, a
retraction assembly, in particular a mechanical and/or magnetic
retraction assembly, can be provided for retracting the drive
module against the pre-tension. Thus, in one embodiment, a magnet
assembly can be selectively activated, in order to remove the drive
module from the input drive assembly when it is subjected to
(further) pre-tensioning by a tensioning means. If the current that
the magnet assembly is subjected to is reduced, preferably
selectively, in a linear manner, for example, the tensioning means
builds up the pre-tensioning.
[0099] A further development is based on the idea of dividing the
work range of the drive for the drive module into an actuating
field, in which the drive actuates the output drive link assembly
for actuating a degree of freedom of the instrument shaft, and a
retraction field, differing therefrom, in which the drive actuates
the retraction assembly. Both fields can be separated from one
another, in particular, by a mechanical stop for an output drive
means of the drive, wherein the output drive means of the drive
module is displaced against the pre-tensioning when it is not
resting against the mechanical stop.
[0100] In that the drive can be adjusted beyond the actuating
range, the drive module can thus be retracted against the
pre-tensioning, preferably by means of a motor, by means of a
corresponding control of the drive, which, as explained above,
advantageously facilitates the coupling of the instrument shaft and
the drive unit.
[0101] In an advantageous further development the drive unit has a
drive module locking assembly for locking the retracted drive
module in place. This can be, in particular, designed to be
mechanical, preferably form- and/or friction-locking, and/or
(electro)magnetic and/or pneumatic. In an exemplary design, a catch
can be adjusted and secure the drive module against a
pre-tensioning induced adjustment in the coupling direction. In
this manner, the (more strongly pre-tensioned) drive module, or its
output drive assembly, respectively, in one embodiment, can be
spaced apart from the input drive assembly, also when the drive
unit and instrument shaft will be, or are, connected to one
another.
[0102] According to one aspect of the present invention, the
coupling direction, in which the drive module is moveably mounted
and pre-tensioned in the housing of the drive unit, forms an angle
with the longitudinal axis of the instrument shaft, which is
greater than 0 degrees, in particular is greater than 45 degrees.
In one embodiment, the angle is, at least substantially, 90
degrees, or the coupling direction is, at least substantially,
perpendicular, or orthogonal, respectively, to the longitudinal
axis of the instrument shaft.
[0103] In that the coupling direction is not parallel to the
longitudinal axis of the instrument shaft, as is the case in WO
2011/143022 A1, specified in the introduction, but rather,
according to this aspect, forms an angle with the longitudinal axis
that is not zero, in particular is a right angle, in one
embodiment, the deformations of the instrument shaft advantageously
do not interfere with the pre-tensioning, or they only interfere to
a small extent therewith, because the force directions thereof are
not aligned with one another. In this manner, a longitudinal
oscillation in the instrument shaft, in particular, can preferably
be decoupled from the pre-tensioning of the drive module, at least
in part, thus improving it.
[0104] The coupling direction can, in one embodiment, at least
substantially, be aligned with an actuation direction of the output
drive link assembly and/or the input drive link assembly. A
coupling direction is understood to mean, in particular, a
direction of movement in which an output drive link or an input
drive link is, or will be, moveably mounted and pre-tensioned, in
order to be coupled to a corresponding input drive link or an
output drive link. An actuation direction is understood to mean, in
particular, a direction of movement in which an output drive link
or an input drive link can move in order to actuate a degree of
freedom of the instrument shaft. If, for example, an output drive
link and an input drive link coupled thereto are designed as push
rods, or tappets, coupled in a one-sided manner, the direction of
the longitudinal axis of the pair of tappets, in which the output
drive tappet is pre-tensioned against the input drive tappet,
represents the coupling direction. This also represents the
actuation direction in which the pair of tappets is moved by the
drive in order to actuate a degree of freedom of the instrument
shaft. If, in another example, an output drive link and an input
drive link coupled therewith are designed as two-sided,
non-rotatably, coupled shafts, the longitudinal axis direction of
the shaft pair, about which the pair of tappets is rotated by the
drive in order to actuate a degree of freedom of the instrument
shaft, represents the actuation direction. This also represents the
coupling direction in which the output drive shaft is pre-tensioned
against the input drive shaft.
[0105] In one embodiment of the present invention, the instrument
shaft has a mounting element for the releasable attachment, in
particular in a form-locking manner, of a drive unit thereto.
[0106] The drive unit can, in one embodiment, be attachable, or
attached, or will be releasably attached in a form-locking manner
by means of a bayonet coupling in the mounting element. For this,
either the drive unit or the mounting element can have one or more
projections, which, as the result of a rotating of the drive unit
in the mounting element, engage in corresponding cut-outs in the
other of either the drive unit or the mounting element. Likewise,
either the drive unit or the mounting element can have one or more
projections, which, as the result of a displacement of the drive
unit inside the mounting element, preferably by exerting a
pre-tensioning force, engage in corresponding cut-outs in the other
of either the drive unit or the mounting element, and/or are pushed
into these. In one embodiment, a cut-out extends in a transverse
direction, in particular perpendicular, to an insertion direction
of the drive unit in the mounting element, such that a projection
can be displaced transverse to the insertion direction in the
cut-out after the insertion of the drive unit in the mounting
element, and secures the drive unit in a form-locking manner
against removal from the mounting element in this displaced
position. Preferably this displacement occurs through the
application of the pre-tensioning force, such that the displacement
can be reversed after the pre-tensioning force has been released,
in order to be able to remove the drive unit from the mounting
element.
[0107] The mounting element can have a guide in one embodiment,
that is a single-piece or multi-piece, in particular form-locking,
guide for inserting the drive unit in an insertion direction. The
guide can, in particular, have one or more guide grooves and/or
ribs, which are designed to work together with corresponding
projections or cut-outs on the drive unit. In this manner, the
connecting and releasing of the drive unit and instrument shaft can
be improved.
[0108] Additionally or alternatively, the mounting element in one
embodiment can have an insertion opening for inserting the drive
unit in an insertion direction. The insertion opening can, in a
further development, be displaceable, in particular by means of a
pivotable and/or displaceable lid, in order to secure the drive
unit in the insertion direction, in particular to define the
insertion direction.
[0109] Additionally or alternatively, the instrument shaft can have
a drive unit locking assembly for locking the drive unit, in
particular in a form- and/or friction locking manner, in the
mounting element, in particular a moveable, preferably
pre-tensioned, catch, which locks in place in the drive unit when
it is placed in the mounting element.
[0110] Additionally or alternatively, the mounting element can be
moveable in relation to a longitudinal axis of the instrument
shaft, in particular it can be pivotable. This enables, in one
embodiment, the drive unit to be first, at least in part, inserted
into the mounting element, which has been moved, in particular
pivoted, into a mounting position, and then to move, in particular
to pivot, the mounting element into a locking position, wherein the
drive unit is preferably fixed in place in a form-locking manner
when the mounting element is in the locking position. In this
manner the access, in particular, to the mounting element can be
improved, and at the same time, an anchoring function for the drive
unit in the mounting element can be integrated therein.
[0111] In one embodiment, the insertion direction can be, at least
substantially, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the
instrument shaft. The insertion opening can then be disposed, in
particular, on the side facing away from the instrument shaft, in
particular in order to facilitate a change in drive units when the
instrument shaft is partially inserted in a patient. Likewise, the
insertion opening can, in one embodiment, be disposed on the side
facing the instrument shaft, in particular in order to avoid an
interference between numerous cooperating surgical instruments.
[0112] In another embodiment example, the insertion direction can
be, at least substantially, parallel to the longitudinal axis of
the instrument shaft. The insertion opening can then in turn be
disposed, in particular, on the side facing away from the
instrument shaft, in particular in order to facilitate a change in
drive units when the instrument shaft is partially inserted in a
patient.
[0113] According to one aspect of the present invention, one or
more moveable input drive links of an input drive link assembly for
actuating a degree of freedom of an instrument shaft are at least
substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the
instrument shaft extending to a mounting element of the instrument
shaft for a drive unit. In one embodiment, an interface, or a
contact plane of the input drive link assembly is, at least
substantially, parallel to the longitudinal axis.
[0114] In that the input drive links do not extend parallel to the
longitudinal axis of the instrument shaft, as is the case in WO
2011/143022 A1 specified in the introduction, but rather, are
perpendicular thereto, at least substantially, according to this
aspect, deformations of the instrument shaft, in an embodiment, do
not interfere, or interfere only slightly with the coupling of the
output drive assembly and the input drive assembly. In this manner,
a longitudinal oscillation, in particular, in the instrument shaft
can preferably be decoupled therefrom, at least in part.
[0115] In particular in order to improve an insertion of a drive
unit in a mounting element of an instrument shaft, in one
embodiment of the present invention, an input drive link assembly
of the instrument shaft and/or an output drive link assembly of the
drive unit can be disposed in a recess, in particular in a coupling
direction. Additionally or alternatively, the drive unit can have a
displacement means, in particular a convergent and/or moveable
displacement means, for displacing an input drive link assembly of
the instrument shaft while inserting the drive unit in the mounting
element of the instrument shaft. The moveable displacement means
can have, in particular, one or more rotatable rollers, which
retract input drive links of an input drive link assembly that
protrude further than average, and thus level the input drive link
assembly. Additionally or alternatively, the displacement means can
have surfaces that converge in an insertion direction, which are
chamfered or convex, in particular, for retracting the longer than
average protruding input drive links. After passing over the
roller(s) and/or convex surfaces, the input drive links extend, at
least substantially, in a uniform manner toward the mounting
element of the instrument shaft. In a further development, a
surface diverging in the insertion direction, in particular such
that it is chamfered or convex in the opposite direction, can
adjoin a surface converging in the insertion direction, in
particular a chamfered or convex surface, in order to also retract
protruding input drive links when removing the drive unit from the
mounting element.
[0116] A surgical instrument according to one aspect of the present
invention has a drive module with one or more rotatable output
drive links. In one embodiment an output drive link is an output
drive shaft of an actuator for the drive module, in particular an
electric motor, or a gearing coupled thereto. In one embodiment, an
output drive link can rotate without limits, in another embodiment
it can rotate a maximum of 360 degrees, preferably a maximum of 215
degrees.
[0117] The surgical instrument also has an instrument shaft, which
can be, in particular is, releasably connected to the drive module.
The instrument shaft has one or more, in particular intracorporeal,
degrees of freedom.
[0118] In one embodiment, the instrument shaft has a rigid,
articulated or flexible tube, on the distal end of which an end
effector can be disposed, in particular a scalpel, a forceps,
scissors, clamp, needle, pipette or suchlike. The end effector can
have an opening for emitting or receiving electromagnetic
radiation, in particular a lens for a camera or a laser, and/or for
gaseous and/or liquid fluids, in particular a suction or rinsing
nozzle.
[0119] The end effector can have one or more functional degrees of
freedom, such as the opening and closing of a forceps or opening.
Additionally or alternatively, the end effector can have one or
more kinematic degrees of freedom, such as the rotation and/or
displacement of a forceps or opening. An intracorporeal degree of
freedom of the instrument shaft can be, in particular, a functional
or kinematic degree of freedom of the end effector, or an
articulated or elastic degree of freedom of the articulated or
flexible tube. In one embodiment, the tube has one or more degrees
of freedom about its longitudinal axis. These can be implemented by
intra- and/or extracorporeal pivotal joints. For a more compact
depiction, rotational degrees of freedom about the longitudinal
axis of the tube are also referred to as intracorporeal degrees of
freedom of the instrument shaft, because they represent a
rotatability of an intracorporeal shaft end, in particular an end
effector. In order to actuate one or more degrees of freedom of the
instrument shaft by means of the drive module connected thereto,
the instrument shaft has one or more displaceably guided input
drive links, which will be, or are, coupled to the output drive
link of the drive module when the drive module and instrument shaft
are coupled to one another. In one embodiment, an input drive link
actuates one or more degrees of freedom of the instrument shaft.
Likewise, numerous input drive links can actuate the same degree of
freedom. In one embodiment, an input drive link is connected to the
tube or the end effector of the instrument shaft by one or more
pulling and/or pushing means, such as pull cables or push rods, in
particular in opposing directions, wherein the pulling and/or
pushing means is preferably, at least substantially, parallel to a
displacement axis of the input drive link. In one embodiment, an
input drive link is displaceably guided in a form-locking manner
and/or between two end stops.
[0120] According to one aspect of the present invention, a
rotational movement of at least one output drive link in an
interface between the drive module and the instrument shaft is thus
converted to a translational, in particular linear, movement of an
input drive link coupled to the output drive link.
[0121] For this, the output drive link and the input drive link can
be, or are, coupled, according to one aspect, in the interface in
the manner of a crossing thrust crank. According to one aspect of
the present invention, the interface has a groove, in particular a
straight or linear groove, and a guide element that is guided in
the groove in a displaceable manner, when the output drive link and
the input drive link are coupled to one another.
[0122] In one embodiment, the groove is disposed on, in particular
in, the input drive link. In a further development, the groove can
be transverse, in particular at least substantially perpendicular,
to a displacement axis of the displaceably guided input drive link,
or, respectively, it can form an angle therewith that is preferably
between 45 degrees and 90 degrees. The guide element is disposed,
preferably eccentrically, on the rotatable output drive link. In a
further development, the axis of rotation for the rotatable output
drive link is transverse, preferably at least substantially
perpendicular, to a displacement axis of the displaceably guided
input drive link and/or the groove. In one embodiment, in
particular the rotational axis can form an angle with the
displacement axis and/or the groove, in each case between 45
degrees and 90 degrees.
[0123] Likewise, the groove can conversely be disposed on the
output drive link, and the guide element can be disposed
accordingly on the input drive link.
[0124] The input drive link is displaceably guided, in one
embodiment, on the instrument shaft. Additionally or alternatively,
it can be displaceably guided on the drive module connected to the
instrument shaft. In particular, the input drive link can be
displaceably guided on the instrument shaft with greater play, in
particular loosely, and can be displaceably guided on the drive
module with less play, in particular substantially without play,
when the drive module is connected to the instrument shaft. As a
result, the more complex, precise guidance can be shifted to the
drive module, thus allowing for the instrument shaft to be designed
such that it is simpler and/or more cost-effective, in particular
such that it can be more readily sterilized and/or is designed as a
disposable article. As soon as the instrument shaft and the drive
module are connected, the drive module assumes
the--precise--guidance of the input drive link. In one embodiment
the input drive link is secured to the instrument shaft such that
it cannot be lost, in particular in a form-locking manner.
[0125] In one embodiment, the guide element has one or more
rotatably mounted roller elements, for establishing contact with
the groove. As a result, in one embodiment, the friction between
the guide element and the groove can advantageously be reduced. In
a further development, the guide element has a pin, on which at
least one roller element is mounted in the form of a ball race on
floating bearings, which can likewise represent a roller element as
set forth in the present invention. For a more compact depiction,
one or more concentric races, the inner(most) of which is disposed
on the pin, and the outer(most) of which makes contact with the
groove, and of which at least one is mounted on floating bearings
on its radial inner and/or outer surface, are also referred to in
general as roller elements, even if they do not execute a rolling
or shifting movement. In another embodiment, numerous roller
elements are disposed, distributed in the circumferential
direction, between the pin and the ball race, in particular a ball,
needle, or cylinder roller bearing. In another embodiment, one or
more roller elements, in particular a ball, needle or cylinder
roller bearing, have no outer race, are disposed on the pin, which
make contact with the groove when the output drive and input drive
element are coupled.
[0126] In order to couple the output drive element and the input
drive element, play between the groove and the guide element in the
displacement axis can be advantageous. On the other side, for the
precise actuation of the instrument shaft by the drive module, a
coupling in this axis without play, to the greatest extent
possible, is advantageous. For this reason, a tolerance element is
provided in one embodiment of the present invention, which
pre-tensions the output drive link and the input drive link in the
displacement axis of the input drive link when the output drive
link and the input drive link are coupled to one another. In a
further development, the tolerance element tensions the guide link
disposed on the output drive link against the input drive link, or
the tolerance element disposed on the input drive link tensions the
guide element against the output drive link. In one embodiment,
this tolerance element can affect a precise transference of
movements between the output drive link and the input drive link,
and furthermore, during coupling and decoupling, can be displaced
against its pre-tensioning, thus improving the coupling and
decoupling. In one embodiment, the tolerance element has a
tolerance element groove, which is preferably at least
substantially parallel to the groove in the interface, and in which
the guide element engages when the output drive element and the
input drive element are coupled.
[0127] In a further development, the tolerance element is
displaceably guided on the input drive link and/or the guide
element, and elastically pre-tensioned against these. Likewise, it
can be designed as an integral part of the input drive link or the
guide element, in particular by means of a hollow chamber, in which
an integral leg can be inserted, which is supported on one or both
sides.
[0128] In one embodiment, the tolerance element is displaceably
guided and pre-tensioned parallel to a displacement axis of the
displaceably guided input drive link. Additionally or
alternatively, the tolerance element can be axially guided and
pre-tensioned on the guide element. In one embodiment, the groove
and the guide element, in particular a roller element of the guide
element, and/or the tolerance element, exhibit complementary
chamfers, in particular in opposing directions. In particular by
means of the axial alignments of such chamfers, in one embodiment,
the tolerance element can likewise (also) be pre-tensioned in
displacement axes, and thus improve the guidance of the guide
element in the groove. One or more of the chamfers can be designed
to be convex, in particular arched, in a further development,
preferably in the manner of an axial spherical roller bearing
having asymmetrical barrel rollers.
[0129] In order to couple the output drive link and the input drive
link during or after connecting the drive module and the instrument
shaft, or prior to, or to decouple them from one another during the
releasing of the drive module and instrument shaft, in one
embodiment, the guide element is mounted such that it is axially
displaceable. As a result, it can be axially inserted in, or
removed from, the groove.
[0130] In a further development, the guide element, which is
mounted such that it can be axially displaced, is axially
pre-tensioned. In this manner, in one embodiment it can be
automatically inserted in the groove, and/or be elastically secured
therein.
[0131] In one embodiment, a connecting member is provided for the
axial displacement of the guide element. In this manner, by
rotating the output drive link, the guide element can first be
displaced via the connecting member, and thus be brought into, or
out of, engagement with the groove. The connecting member can have,
in particular, one or more chamfers in the direction of rotation,
on which a projection, preferably a collar, of the guide element
slides up, by means of rotating the output drive link, and thus
axially displaces the guide element. In a further development, the
connecting member has two chamfers in opposing directions, spaced
apart from one another in the direction of rotation, on which the
projection slides up in rotational positions spaced apart from one
another in the direction of rotation, and in this manner, axially
displaces the guide element in opposing directions in the various
rotational positions.
[0132] The rotational range for axial displacement of the guide
element adjoins, in one embodiment, a rotational range of the
output drive link for actuating the input drive link coupled
thereto. In this manner, by (further) rotating the output drive
link, the input drive link can be coupled thereto or decoupled
therefrom, and subsequently, or prior thereto, respectively, the
input drive link can be actuated.
[0133] The guide element can be axially displaceably mounted and
pre-tensioned on the output drive link or the input drive link.
Likewise, the guide element can be axially displaceably mounted and
pre-tensioned together with the output drive link or the input
drive link. In particular, for this purpose the output drive link
can be displaceably mounted and pre-tensioned on the drive module
and/or the input drive link on the instrument shaft, preferably
parallel to the rotational axis of the output drive link.
[0134] In order to couple the output drive link and the input drive
link to one another during or after the connection of the drive
module and instrument shaft, or to decouple them, before or during
the releasing of the drive module and instrument shaft, in one
embodiment a guide wall of the groove has an opening for inserting
the guide element by rotating the output drive link. As a result,
the guide element can be rotated into the groove, or rotated out of
the groove, respectively. The opening can be formed, in particular,
by a shortened leg of an open, or U-shaped, or otherwise closed or
O-shaped pair of legs, which in turn can define the groove.
[0135] It can be advantageous, in particular for detecting a
coordinate of a degree of freedom of the instrument shaft on the
basis of the rotational position of the output drive link coupled
thereto, if the output and input drive links, or the guide element
and groove, respectively, are coupled to one another, at least
substantially, in a one-to-one correspondence, such that each
position of the input drive link in its displacement axis precisely
corresponds to a rotational position of the output drive link.
[0136] In particular, in one embodiment, the groove is therefore
designed such that it is asymmetrical to the rotational axis of the
output drive link and/or a displacement axis of the input drive
link. In a further development it extends, a least substantially,
only as far as this rotational axis.
[0137] In one embodiment, the input drive link is connected to
exactly one pulling or pushing means, which is, at least
substantially, parallel to a displacement axis of the input drive
link. As a result, a movement of the input drive link can be
precisely and readily converted to an actuation of a degree of
freedom of the instrument shaft.
[0138] A surgical instrument according to the present invention can
be used, in particular, as a minimally invasive and/or robot-guided
instrument. For this, in one embodiment, the instrument, in
particular the instrument shaft and/or the drive module, has an
interface for connecting to a robot. According to one aspect of the
present invention, a robot having an instrument connected to it,
preferably releasably, via an interface, is placed, accordingly,
under protection, as it is disclosed here. Likewise, a drive
module, or an instrument shaft, respectively, for a surgical
instrument of this type is placed under protection, which has one
or more grooves or guide elements of the interface disclosed here
for the surgical instrument in order to couple corresponding guide
elements, or grooves, respectively of the instrument shaft, or
drive module, respectively.
[0139] According to one aspect of the present invention, during or
after a connecting of the drive module and the instrument shaft of
a surgical instrument of the type described above, the guide
element(s) is/are rotated into or axially inserted in the
corresponding groove(s), in order to couple the output drive
link(s) and input drive link(s). To decouple these, during or prior
to the releasing of the drive module and the instrument shaft, the
guide element(s) is/are rotated out of the corresponding groove(s),
or axially removed therefrom.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0140] Further advantages and features can be derived from the
dependent claims and the embodiment examples. Shown are, in part
schematically:
[0141] FIG. 1: a mechanical interface of an instrument assembly
according to one embodiment of the present invention;
[0142] FIGS. 2 to 6: mechanical interfaces of instrument assemblies
according to further embodiments of the present invention;
[0143] FIGS. 7A-7E: various embodiments of the front surfaces
facing one another of the output drive elements and the input drive
elements of the mechanical interfaces in FIGS. 1 to 6;
[0144] FIGS. 8A-8C, 9, 10: compensation means for tolerance
compensation;
[0145] FIGS. 11 to 15: various couplings of an instrument
shaft-side drive train and an inventive mechanical interface;
[0146] FIG. 16: mechanical interfaces of instrument assemblies
according to further embodiments of the present invention;
[0147] FIGS. 17A-17D, 18A-18D, 19A-19D: various embodiments of pins
and cut-outs of the interface in FIG. 16;
[0148] FIGS. 20A-20B: an instrument assembly according to a further
embodiment of the present invention;
[0149] FIG. 21: an instrument assembly according to a further
embodiment of the present invention;
[0150] FIG. 22: a pin and a clamping means of the instrument
assembly in FIG. 21;
[0151] FIGS. 23A-23C: the steps of the strain-controlled coupling
process for the instrument assembly in FIG. 21;
[0152] FIGS. 24A-24B: mechanical interfaces of instrument
assemblies according to further embodiments of the present
invention;
[0153] FIGS. 25A-25C: the steps of the strain-controlled coupling
process for the instrument assembly in FIGS. 24A-24B;
[0154] FIGS. 26A-26C: various assemblies or joining directions,
respectively, of an instrument shaft on a drive unit for an
instrument assembly according to further embodiments of the present
invention;
[0155] FIGS. 27A-27C, 28, 29: mechanical interfaces of instrument
assemblies according to further embodiments of the present
invention;
[0156] FIGS. 30A-30C: mechanical interfaces of instrument
assemblies according to further embodiments of the present
invention, with a sterile barrier, having a cuff in the adjustment
direction;
[0157] 31A-31C: mechanical interfaces of instrument assemblies
according to further embodiments of the present invention, with a
sterile barrier, have a seal that can be displaced translationally
without contact thereto;
[0158] FIGS. 32A-32B: a mechanical interface of an instrument
assembly according to a further embodiment of the present
invention, with a sterile barrier, which has an element extension
that is releasably connected to an output drive element base or
input drive element base;
[0159] FIGS. 33A-33B: an instrument assembly according to a further
embodiment of the present invention, with an attachment element in
the form of a sterile adapter 4;
[0160] FIG. 34: a part of a surgical instrument according to one
embodiment of the present invention;
[0161] FIG. 35: a signal-based linking of metering means in a
metering assembly for the surgical instrument in FIG. 34;
[0162] FIG. 36: a control means, or method, respectively, according
to one embodiment of the present invention;
[0163] FIG. 37: a part of a robot-guided surgical instrument
according to one embodiment of the present invention in a partial
section;
[0164] FIG. 38: a drive module and an input drive link assembly
coupled thereto, of the surgical instrument in FIG. 37;
[0165] FIG. 39: a drive module and an input drive link assembly
coupled thereto, according to a further embodiment of the present
invention depicted in FIG. 38;
[0166] FIG. 40A: a drive module with a retraction assembly
according to a further embodiment of the present invention depicted
in FIG. 38, in a state in which it is coupled to an input drive
link assembly;
[0167] FIG. 40B: the retracted and locked down drive module in FIG.
40A;
[0168] FIG. 41: a drive module according to a further embodiment of
the present invention depicted in FIG. 38;
[0169] FIG. 42A: a drive unit and an instrument shaft of a surgical
instrument according to a further embodiment of the present
invention in a partial section;
[0170] FIG. 42B: a drive unit and an instrument shaft of a surgical
instrument according to a further embodiment of the present
invention depicted in FIG. 42A;
[0171] FIG. 43A: a drive unit and an instrument shaft of a surgical
instrument according to a further embodiment of the present
invention depicted in FIG. 42A;
[0172] FIG. 43B: a drive unit and an instrument shaft of a surgical
instrument according to a further embodiment of the present
invention depicted in FIG. 42A;
[0173] FIG. 44A: a drive unit and an instrument shaft of a surgical
instrument according to a further embodiment of the present
invention depicted in FIG. 42A;
[0174] FIG. 44B: a drive unit and an instrument shaft of a surgical
instrument according to a further embodiment of the present
invention depicted in FIG. 42A;
[0175] FIG. 45A: a drive unit and an instrument shaft of a surgical
instrument according to a further embodiment of the present
invention depicted in FIG. 42A;
[0176] FIG. 45B: a drive unit and an instrument shaft of a surgical
instrument according to a further embodiment of the present
invention depicted in FIG. 42A;
[0177] FIG. 46A: a drive unit and an instrument shaft of a surgical
instrument according to a further embodiment of the present
invention depicted in FIG. 42A;
[0178] FIG. 46B: a drive unit and an instrument shaft of a surgical
instrument according to a further embodiment of the present
invention depicted in FIG. 42A;
[0179] FIG. 47: a surgical instrument according to one embodiment
of the present invention;
[0180] FIGS. 48A-48B: an interface of the surgical instrument in
FIG. 47, in a perspective view;
[0181] FIGS. 49A-49B: steps for coupling a guide element to a
groove in the interface in FIGS. 48A-48B;
[0182] FIGS. 49C-49F: steps for actuating an input drive link by
means of an output drive link of the surgical instrument in FIG.
47;
[0183] FIG. 50: an interface of a surgical instrument according to
a further embodiment of the present invention, in a partial
section;
[0184] FIGS. 51A, 51B: an interface of a surgical instrument
according to a further embodiment of the present invention in a
perspective view (FIG. 51A) and a partial section (FIG. 51B);
[0185] FIG. 52: an interface of a surgical instrument according to
a further embodiment of the present invention in FIG. 51B in a
corresponding manner;
[0186] FIGS. 53A, 53B: an interface of a surgical instrument
according to a further embodiment of the present invention in
various positions;
[0187] FIG. 54: an interface of a surgical instrument according to
a further embodiment of the present invention; and
[0188] FIGS. 55A-55E: an interface of a surgical instrument
according to a further embodiment of the present invention in a
view from above, in the direction of a displacement axis (FIGS.
55A-55C), or in a perspective view (FIGS. 55D-55E), wherein an
output drive link and an input drive link are not coupled to one
another (FIGS. 55A, 55B, 55D, 55E) or are coupled to one another
(FIG. 55C).
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0189] FIG. 1 shows a mechanical interface of an instrument
assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention,
having two output drive elements 10A, 10B of an output drive
assembly running in opposite directions, and a modular motor drive
unit 1. These are coupled to two input drive elements 20A or 20B,
respectively, of an input drive assembly for an instrument shaft 2.
A sterile barrier 3 encases the drive unit 1 and is disposed
between this drive unit and the instrument shaft 2.
[0190] Output drive and input drive elements 10A, 10B, and 20A,
20B, respectively, are inserted in the drive unit 1, or the
instrument shaft 2, respectively, such that they can be
translationally displaced.
[0191] The output drive elements 10A, 10B are coupled to a coupling
means designed as a rocker 10C, such that a rotational movement by
the coupling means 10C, indicated by circular arrow in FIG. 1, is
converted to a translational movement of the elements 10A, 10B. The
coupling means 10C can be connected, for example, to an output
drive shaft of an electric motor for the drive unit 1, or can be
coupled via a gearing (not shown).
[0192] In a similar manner, the input drive elements 20A, 20B are
coupled to a further coupling means designed as a rocker 20C, such
that a translational movement of the elements 20A, 20B is converted
to a rotational movement by the coupling means 20C. Pull cables or
push rods of the instrument shaft 2, which are axially spaced apart
from one another, can be attached to the coupling means 20C, for
example, by means of which a degree of freedom of an end effector
is actuated, such that, for example, a scissors is opened, or a
scalpel is rotated (not shown). Likewise, the rotational movement
of the coupling means 20C can be transferred, for example, via
gearwheels, or--by means of a worm gearing--again converted into a
translational movement.
[0193] Both output drive elements and input drive elements
allocated thereto 10A, 20A, and 10B, 20B, respectively, between
themselves, as well as the output drive elements 10A, 10B and the
coupling means 10C, as well as the input drive elements 20A, 20B
and the further coupling means 20C, are each coupled to one another
by means of a one-sided linkage. One can see that only pressure
forces can be transferred by the coupling means 10C to the output
drive elements 10A, 10B, and by these to the input drive elements
20A, 20B, and by these, in turn, to the further coupling means
20C.
[0194] The output drive and input drive elements are designed as
tappets in the embodiment, which are displaced along their
longitudinal axes by means of a linear actuator or a joint
kinematic. The sterile barrier 3 is located between the tappets.
Because only pressure forces can be transferred with a pair of
tappets, a closed kinematic loop is formed by the second pair of
tappets. The second pair of tappets is moved in the opposite
direction of that of the first pair, such that drive forces can be
transferred in both directions. In general, therefore, in one
embodiment of the invention, a parallelogram kinematic is provided
in the mechanical interface.
[0195] The coupling of the instrument shaft to the drive unit has a
simple design, and can, alternatively, occur along, or transverse
to, the movement, or adjustment direction of the tappets 10A-20B.
The tappets 10A, 10B for the drive unit 1 are covered by the
sterile barrier. The instrument shaft 2 is joined to the drive unit
1 such that the tappets 10A, 20A, or 10B, 20B, respectively, are
initially opposite one another, at a certain spacing. Subsequently
the output drive-side is pushed to the input drive-side. The
angular position of the tilt lever, or rocker 10C, 20C, is
arbitrary thereby, because the positions of both sides align during
the coupling process.
[0196] FIG. 2 shows a mechanical interface for an instrument
assembly according to a further embodiment of the present
invention. Features corresponding to those in the embodiment
explained above are indicated with identical reference symbols,
such that in the following, only the differences shall be
addressed, and otherwise, reference is made to the overall
description.
[0197] In the embodiment in FIG. 1, sliding contact occurs between
the coupling means 10C, 20C and the tappets 10A, 10B, or 20A, 20B,
respectively, wherein the frictional forces are a function of,
among others, the lever position and the contact surfaces, in
particular their geometry and surfaces. Therefore, in one
embodiment of the present invention, as it is depicted by way of
example in FIG. 2, a roller 30 is disposed in at least a one-sided
contact with a coupling means (in FIG. 2, by way of example: 10C,
20C) and the output drive and input drive elements (in FIG. 2, by
way of example: 10A, 10B, or 20A, 20B, respectively), by means of
which the friction can be reduced.
[0198] FIG. 3 shows a mechanical interface of an instrument
assembly according to a further embodiment of the present
invention. Features corresponding to those in the other embodiment
are indicated by identical reference symbols, such that only the
differences shall be addressed below, and otherwise, reference is
made to the overall description.
[0199] In the embodiments in FIGS. 1 and 2, the output drive
elements 10A, 10B and the coupling means 10C, as well as the input
drive elements 20A, 20B and the further coupling means 20C are each
connected to one another by means of a one-sided linkage having
sliding (FIG. 1) or rolling (FIG. 2) contact, respectively. In one
embodiment, which is shown by way of example in FIG. 3, at least
one output drive element (in FIG. 3, by way of example: 10A, 10B)
and one coupling means (in FIG. 3, by way of example: 10C), and/or
at least one input drive element (in FIG. 3, by way of example:
20A, 20B) and one (further) coupling means (in FIG. 3, by way of
example: 20C), on the contrary, are coupled to one another by at
least one coupling rod (in FIG. 3, by way of example: 40), which is
connected in an articulated manner to the coupling means, or
element, respectively.
[0200] FIG. 4 shows a mechanical interface of an instrument
assembly according to a further embodiment of the present
invention. Features corresponding to those in the other embodiments
are indicated with identical reference symbols, such that only the
differences shall be addressed below, and otherwise, reference is
made to the overall description.
[0201] In this embodiment, only one pair of tappets 10A, 20A for
transferring forces is provided for the actuation of a degree of
freedom. Instead of a further pair of output and input drive
elements, the input drive element 20A is pre-tensioned against its
adjustment direction by a spring 50. This returns the pair of
tappets 10A, 20A against the adjustment direction, when an
actuating force in an adjustment direction is removed, or,
respectively, in the case of an actuating movement of the output
drive element counter to this adjustment direction.
[0202] FIG. 5 shows a mechanical interface of an instrument
assembly according to a further embodiment of the present
invention. Features corresponding to those in the other embodiments
are indicated with identical reference symbols, such that only the
differences shall be addressed below, and otherwise, reference is
made to the overall description.
[0203] In one embodiment, which is shown by way of example in FIG.
5, a least one coupling, in the manner of a spindle drive having
sliding sleeves moved in opposite directions, is formed between an
output drive element (in FIG. 5, by way of example: 10A, 10B) and a
coupling means (in FIG. 5, by way of example: 10C). The coupling
means, preferably designed as a winding spindle (in FIG. 5, by way
of example: 10C) has, in one embodiment, one section with
right-handed threads and one section with left-handed threads, on
which, in each case, an output drive element sits, designed as a
spindle nut (in FIG. 5, by way of example: 10A or 10B). By rotating
the threaded spindle 10C, the spindle nuts 10A, 10B are moved in
opposite directions. The nuts can be secured against turning by
means of a guide rail 10D fixed in place in relation to the drive
unit, for example.
[0204] For purposes of clarification, a perspective partial section
of the interface is shown in the left side of FIG. 5, side views
with different settings of the output drive elements 10A, 10B are
shown in the middle and at the right, respectively.
[0205] FIG. 6 shows a mechanical interface of an instrument
assembly according to a further embodiment of the present
invention. Features corresponding to those in the other embodiments
are indicated by identical reference symbols, such that only the
differences shall be addressed below, and otherwise, reference is
made to the overall description.
[0206] In one embodiment, which is shown by way of example in FIG.
6, at least one output element (in FIG. 6, by way of example: 10A,
10B) and one coupling means (in FIG. 6, by way of example: 10C)
and/or at least one input drive element (in FIG. 6, by way of
example: 20A, 20B) and one (further) coupling means (in FIG. 6, by
way of example: 20C) are coupled by a rack and pinion gearing. For
this, in a further development, the coupling means (in FIG. 6, by
way of example: 10C, 20C) are designed as pinions, with which the
output drive elements (in FIG. 6, by way of example: 10A, 10B), or
the input drive elements (in FIG. 6, by way of example: 20A, 20B)
designed as racks, mesh, in each case in opposite directions, thus
converting a rotational movement into a translational movement.
Because they are disposed on opposite sides of the rack, they move
in opposing directions. When, in an advantageous further
development, the input drive elements and/or the output drive
elements are pre-tensioned against their adjustment direction, or
toward one another, respectively, backlash in the tooth engagements
10A-10C, 10B-10C, 20A-20C, or 20B-20C, respectively, can be reduced
or eliminated thereby in an advantageous manner.
[0207] FIGS. 7A-7E shows various embodiments of the front surfaces
of the output drive elements and the input drive elements 10A, 10B,
or 20A, 20B, respectively, facing one another, in the embodiments
in FIGS. 1 to 6, which are designed such that they are flat or
convex and/or have a projection for engaging in a cut-out in the
other front surface: FIG. 7A shows two flat front surfaces, or
contact surfaces, which form a (one-sided linked) surface contact
thereby, FIG. 7B shows a convex front surface and a flat front
surface, which form a point contact, FIG. 7C shows a spherical
projection, which engages in a conical hole or cut-out, and forms
an annular contact, FIG. 7D shows a conical projection, which
engages in a conical hole or cut-out, and forms a surface contact,
and FIG. 7E shows two convex front surfaces, or contact surfaces,
which form a point contact.
[0208] In order to ensure a transference precision and rigidity to
the greatest possible extent, deviations in the position and
orientation of the contact surfaces should be avoided. Possible
causes of such deviations are production and assembly tolerances,
as well as deviations in the positioning of the instrument in
relation to the drive unit by the user. For this reason, in one
embodiment of the present invention, at least one one-sided linkage
has a point contact between the output drive element and the input
drive element.
[0209] FIGS. 8A-8C, 9, 10 show compensation means for tolerance
compensation. FIG. 8 shows a compensation for position and
orientation deviations of the tappet-contact surfaces by means of
flexibilities imposed thereon in a targeted manner. In one
embodiment, which is indicated by way of example in FIG. 8A, a
flexibility is formed by means of a flexible design of an output
drive element and/or an input drive element (in FIG. 8A, by way of
example: 10A or 20A). Additionally or alternatively, a flexibility
can be formed by means of an elastic deformation of the sterile
barrier, as is indicated by way of example in FIG. 8B. The sterile
barrier is preferably produced, entirely or in part, from an
elastomer. The flexible design of an output drive element and/or an
input drive element, as is shown in FIGS. 8A-8C, can be
advantageous with regard, in particular, to the transference
behavior. In general, a flexibility in an embodiment of the present
invention can have a progressive spring characteristic, in order to
thus be able to compensate for smaller tolerances, and at the same
time, to ensure a relatively rigid transference during larger
actuations.
[0210] Additionally or alternatively, a flexibility can be provided
in a coupling means, as is shown by way of example in FIG. 8C.
Because of the closed kinematic chain, this concerns, in principle,
a static over-determined system. In order to compensate for
production and assembly tolerances in the kinematic chain, and to
obtain a lack of play, length differences between the pair of
tappets are compensated for by a flexible design of a coupling
means.
[0211] In one embodiment, which is indicated by way of example in
FIG. 9, a compensating means for tolerance compensation has a
bearing that can be displaced in an adjustment direction (vertical
in FIG. 9) or a bearing axis of a coupling means that can be
displaced in an adjustment direction (in FIG. 9, by way of example:
10C). For this purpose, in one embodiment, this is rotatably
mounted in a slide, which is disposed inside the drive unit such
that it can be displaced therein. This thrust bearing enables a
displacement in the direction of the tappet movement. A force is
applied in this direction, for example, by means of a spring or by
means of a static adjustment, which pre-tensions the pair of
tappets against one another in the interface (in FIG. 9, indicated
by the dotted force arrow).
[0212] FIG. 10 shows a compensation for length tolerances between
the pair of tappets by means of flexibilities in the sterile
barrier, as has already been explained above in reference to FIG.
8B. In one embodiment of the present invention, which is indicated
by way of example in FIG. 10, a flexible compensation element 3.1
is integrated in the sterile barrier. By compressing this element,
a pre-tensioning is built up in the kinematic loop, and at the same
time, length differences are compensated for by means of different
compressions. In particular, in order to avoid too much
flexibility, which could be detrimental with respect to the
regulating behavior, the compensation element 3.1 exhibits a
progressive spring behavior in a further development. This can be
obtained, in particular, by means of an appropriate selection of
the material and/or the geometric design of the sterile
barrier.
[0213] FIGS. 11 to 15 show, in particular, various advantageous
couplings of an instrument shaft-side drive train on an inventive
mechanical interface, as is described above in reference to FIGS. 1
to 10, but in the following in reference to the other figures. FIG.
11 shows a coupling of a pull cable 60 to the input drive element
thereby. In order to actuate a degree of freedom of the instrument
shaft, in particular an end effector (not depicted), in both, or
opposite, directions, a kinematic loop is formed in the instrument
shaft with the rotatably mounted rocker 20C between the two tappets
20A, 20B. In the embodiment shown here, the tappets are each
coupled to the rocker with a rotational thrust bearing 20D. A cable
pulley is permanently connected to the rocker, around which the
pull cable is wound. In a further development a form-locking and/or
material bonded connection between the pulley and the pull cable is
also possible. With an appropriate selection of the cable pulley
diameter, optionally, an adjustment of the interface stroke to the
necessary cable stroke can also be carried out. In addition to the
depicted cylindrical cross-section of the cable pulley, other, in
particular elliptical, cross-sections are also possible.
[0214] FIG. 12 shows a coupling of an instrument-side pull cable 60
on the mechanical interface according to a further embodiment. In
this case, the cable pulley, which forms an element of a coupling
means as set forth in the present invention, is also provided with
a gear toothing 20E, which meshes with a toothed section of an
instrument-side tappet (in FIG. 12, by way of example: 20B). The
additional gear ratio of this gearwheel stage enables,
advantageously, an even better adjustment of the tappet stroke to
the cable stroke.
[0215] In both embodiments in FIGS. 11, 12, the pull cable 60 is
continuous. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention,
which is indicated by way of example in FIGS. 13, 14 and 15, a
degree of freedom can also be actuated by a pull cable with
distinct ends (in FIG. 13, by way of example: 60) or by push rods
(not shown), the ends of which can be coupled to input drive
elements (in FIG. 13, by way of example: 20A, 20B), or a coupling
means coupled thereto. In one embodiment of the present invention,
as is indicated by way of example in FIGS. 14, 15, the ends of the
pull cable 60 are coupled via additional cable rockers thereby, to
the mechanical interface, or its input drive elements 20A, 20B,
respectively. The cable stroke can advantageously be adjusted via
the ratios of the lever arms of each rocker. In order to avoid a
change to the necessary cable length, the lever ratios of both
cable rockers can be the same. In FIGS. 14, 15 the two bearing
points of the cable rockers are depicted offset to one another, for
better clarity. In one embodiment, these bearings for the cable
rockers can be coaxial to one another. In the embodiment in FIG.
14, the closed kinematic loop between the output drive and input
drive elements is formed by a further instrument-side rocker, which
is coupled, in each case, to the instrument-side tappets 20A, 20B
via a rotational thrust bearing 20D. In the embodiment in FIG. 15,
this additional rocker is omitted, and instead, the pre-tensioning
of the interface is built up via the pull cable, by means of which
a closed kinematic loop already exists. In particular, in this
manner, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a
pre-tensioning of the mechanical interface can also be used in
general for pre-tensioning an instrument shaft-side pull cable, by
means of which the complexity of the instrument-side drive train is
reduced. At this point, it should be expressly noted that in the
embodiments shown here, the allocation of output drive and input
drive elements is purely exemplary, and in particular, assemblies
or features of an output drive element in one embodiment can also
be combined with assemblies or features of an input drive element
of another embodiment. Thus, for example in the embodiment in FIG.
14, instead of the input drive-side rotational thrust bearing 20D,
analogous to the output drive side, an assembly, or coupling,
respectively, with coupling rods (cf. output drive-side coupling
rod 40 in FIG. 14) is also conceivable.
[0216] FIG. 16 shows a mechanical interface of the instrument
assembly according to a further embodiment of the present
invention. Features corresponding to those in the other embodiments
are indicated with identical reference symbols, such that only the
differences shall be addressed below, and otherwise, reference is
made to the overall description. In this embodiment, the interface
has an output drive element in the form of a pin 100 and an input
drive element having a cut-out 200, wherein the pin can be radially
expanded in an elastic manner in the cut-out by a clamping means.
This embodiment is suited for transferring tractive and pressure
forces. In the following a translational actuation or adjustment of
the mechanical interface shall be explained in an exemplary manner,
although the mechanical interface can also be used for transferring
rotational or superimposed translational and rotational
movements.
[0217] The input drive pin 100 is guided and actuated in the drive
unit 1 such that its position can be adjusted in a translational
manner, and inserted in an instrument shaft-side cut-out in the
form of a coupling socket 200. The thin-walled sterile barrier 3 is
disposed between the drive unit and the instrument shaft.
[0218] The connecting of the input drive pin 100 and the coupling
socket 200 can be force-locking or form-locking, and can occur in
relation to, or independently of, the instrument drive.
Advantageously, components having a greater complexity and smaller
tolerances can be disposed in the drive unit, such that these
interfaces are also advantageous, in particular, for less expensive
disposable instrument shafts. The positioning and attachment of the
instrument shaft in relation to the drive unit occur in a further
development by means a separate functional unit, as described
below. The bearing for the coupling element is preferably selected
such that, for this reason, high demands on the shape and bearing
tolerances are avoided, and the connecting of output drive elements
and input drive elements occurs, at least substantially, without
difficulty. The input drive pin is inserted, for this reason, in a
further development, in the drive unit with a pentavalent thrust
bearing, i.e. only displacements along the longitudinal axis are
possible. The positioning and orientation of the coupling socket in
the instrument shaft exhibits radial play, i.e. the coupling socket
is not distinctly guided in the radial direction. As long as the
instrument shaft is not coupled to the drive unit, the radial
bearing ensures that the coupling sleeve is pre-positioned with
sufficient precision, and cannot be released during manipulation
and cleaning thereof. Once the instrument shaft is coupled to the
drive unit, this bearing no longer serves a function. At that
point, the thrust bearing of the input drive pin also acts as the
bearing for the instrument shaft-side input drive element. In this
manner, a connection is advantageously obtained without
difficulties, without placing a load on the two bearings. The
bearing for the coupling socket in the instrument shaft has two
stops in a further development, in the axial, or adjustment,
direction. Thus, the necessary working stroke can be individually
determined for each instrument shaft, and the drive unit can be
used for different instrument shafts.
[0219] A radial orientation of the coupling socket 200 in relation
to the input drive pin 100 occurs automatically as a result of the
geometric design of the coupling element. Thus, only a joining
movement toward the input drive pin is necessary. As a result,
instrument shaft replacement during a surgical operation is
advantageously facilitated, and can be executed quickly.
[0220] Various advantageous embodiments of input drive pins and
coupling sockets are depicted in FIGS. 17A-17D, 18A-18D, in
particular a flat (FIG. 17D), conical (FIG. 17C), spherical (FIG.
17B) and an elliptical (FIG. 17A) front surface of the input drive
pin, can each be combined with different insertion geometries of
the instrument shaft-side coupling socket, in particular a
cylindrical (FIG. 18D) blind hole, in particular with one or more
steps (FIG. 18C), a chamfering (FIG. 18B) or rounding (FIG.
18A).
[0221] FIGS. 19A-19D show various couplings of the pin 100 and
cut-out 200: in one embodiment, indicated by way of example in
FIGS. 19A, 19B, and 19D, the pin and cut-out are coupled in a
friction-locking manner by an elastic expansion of an input drive
pin, designed in particular as a single- (FIG. 19D) or multi-piece
(FIGS. 19A, 19B) pin, which can have an elastic body (in FIGS. 19A,
19B, by way of example: 100.1), the diameter of which is increased
by an elastic deformation by means of a clamping means (in FIGS.
19A, 19B, 19C: 100.2). In one embodiment, indicated by way of
example in FIG. 19C, the pins and cut-outs are coupled,
additionally or exclusively, in a form-locking manner, through an
elastic expansion of a single- or multi-piece input drive pin. In
one embodiment, depicted in FIG. 19C by way of example, in
combination with the form-locking, a clamping means (in FIG. 19C,
by way of example: 100.2) has a conical external shape, and can be
axially adjusted in the pin 100, in order to expand the pin
radially from the inside. In the embodiment in FIGS. 19A, 19B, the
clamping means 100.2 has a flange instead, for radially expanding
the elastic pin by means of axial compression. In the embodiment in
FIG. 19D, the clamping means 100.2 is designed as a hydraulic or
pneumatic element, and the pin is radially expanded from the inside
by pressurization thereof.
[0222] A sterile protective casing 3 is disposed between the pin
and the cut-out, and enables the form-locking or friction-locking
described above, due to its elasticity. As has been explained
elsewhere, with this embodiment, a movement of the (non-sterile)
drive unit on a (sterile) instrument shaft does not pass through a
hole in the sterile barrier, but rather, is transferred via the
sealed sterile barrier, facilitating the sterile manipulation
thereof.
[0223] The clamping movement, or the clamping means (in FIGS.
19A-19D, by way of example: 100.2) can be actuated in relation to
the instrument drive, or independently thereof.
[0224] FIG. 20A shows, by way of example, a drive unit 1 with three
output drive elements in the form of pins, FIG. 20B shows an
instrument shaft 2 that can be coupled thereto, having three input
drive elements, which exhibit corresponding cut-outs. In one
embodiment, a pin in an output drive or input drive element can be
radially expandable in a non-elastic manner, and for this purpose,
can exhibit one or more radially displaceably guided, preferably
lamellar, separate bodies (in FIG. 20A, by way of example: 100.1),
as is depicted by way of example in FIG. 20A.
[0225] FIGS. 21, 22, 23A-23C show cuts through a drive unit 1 and
an instrument shaft 2 coupled thereto, having a (crank) pin
interface according to a further embodiment of the present
invention. Features corresponding to those in the other embodiments
are indicated with identical reference symbols, such that only the
differences shall be addressed below, and otherwise, reference is
made to the overall description.
[0226] In particular, a clamping means drive in the form of an
electric motor 100.3 and a threaded spindle 100.2 are indicated
schematically, such as a cylindrical screw drive, a clamping means,
a crank pin 100, and an instrument shaft-side coupling socket with
a hole 200, for example. The threaded spindle 100.2, a ball or
roller screw drive for example, is powered by an electric motor
100.3 in a path-controlled manner. The threaded spindle is mounted
in the drive unit 1 by means of a spindle bearing. A spindle nut
meshing with the threaded spindle 100.2 is non-rotatably connected
to the crank pin 100. The crank pin is inserted, on its part, in a
thrust bearing 100.5, which allows a translation only in the axial
direction, and absorbs all radial forces and torques. For the
friction-locking or form-locking (cf. FIGS. 19A-19D, in
particular), the pin 100 has numerous separate bodies in the form
of lamellar tension levers 100.1, which are uniformly distributed
on the circumference of the crank pin. The tension levers 100.1 are
rotatably mounted in the crank pins 100 at the distal ends thereof
(right side in FIG. 22), and as a result, are guided such that they
can be displaced radially, such that a radial deflection of the
tension lever results in a force- or form-locking clamping of the
crank pin in the instrument-side coupling socket. The deflection of
the tension lever results, in a path-controlled manner, by means of
the control contour, which can be integrated in the threaded
spindle, as indicated by way of example in FIGS. 21, 22,
23A-23C.
[0227] FIGS. 23A-23C show the steps for the path-controlled
coupling procedure for the output drive assembly and the input
drive assembly to one another, by means of the mechanical
interface, this being prior to coupling the output drive element
100, and the input drive element 200 (FIG. 23A), in which the
clamping effect is obtained after inserting the input drive pin
into the coupling socket (FIG. 23B) and a maintaining of the
clamping is obtained over the entire adjustment range through a
mechanical, positively driven, operation of the tension lever.
[0228] FIG. 23A shows the situation prior to the coupling. The
drive unit 1 is covered by a sterile casing 3, and the instrument
shaft is secured to the drive unit 1. The input drive pin 100 is
inserted in a lower boundary layer. A compression spring 200.1 in
the instrument shaft supports the coupling process, in that it
ensures that the coupling socket 200 is likewise located in a lower
boundary layer. FIG. 23B shows the situation immediately following
the coupling. By extending the pin 100 out of the drive unit 1, it
is inserted into the coupling socket of the instrument shaft.
Subsequently the tension lever 100.1 is forced radially outward by
the control contour on the threaded spindle 100.2, and thus
establishes the friction- or form-locking connection thereby. As is
shown in FIG. 23C, this mechanical connection is maintained by
means of a mechanical positive guidance of the tension lever in the
entire working range of the instrument shaft, with translationally
adjusted or actuated pins 100 in the embodiment example (vertical
in FIGS. 23A-23C).
[0229] FIGS. 24A-24B show mechanical interfaces of instrument
assemblies according to further embodiments of the present
invention. Features corresponding to those in the other embodiments
are indicated by identical reference symbols, such that only the
differences shall be addressed below, and otherwise, reference is
made to the overall description.
[0230] In the embodiment in FIGS. 24A-24B, the crank pin, or the
clamping means drive, respectively, is force-controlled, the
clamping force, contrary to the embodiments in FIGS. 21, 22,
23A-23C, 24A-24B, is not controlled by a positive guidance of the
output drive element, or pin, respectively, applied by the
actuator. The coupling between the output drive element and the
input drive element is established by an elastic expansion of the
input drive pin 100, and can be force- or form-locking. By
tightening a clamping mechanism, or means, respectively, the input
drive pin is radially expanded. In the embodiment in FIGS. 24A-24B,
the clamping means has a locking-ball mechanism for this, which can
have, for example, in a variation that is not depicted, an
expanding mandrel, an articulated lever mechanism, or a lock
washer. In order to maintain the clamping force over the entire
adjustment range, in one embodiment of the present invention the
clamping means is designed in general such that, as is indicated in
FIGS. 24A-24B by way of example, it has a kinematic dead center.
This means, in the present case, in particular, that there is a
kinematic range in which the clamping means remains open in a
stable manner, or does not couple the output drive and input drive
elements, respectively, and there is a further kinematic range,
separated from the first by a dead center, in which the clamping
means remains closed in a stable manner, or couples the output
drive and input drive elements. In the embodiment in FIGS. 24A-24B,
the clamping means has numerous locking balls 100.6 distributed for
this purpose on the circumference of the input drive pin 100, and
an actuating stud 100.2 having a spherical head, the diameter of
which is greater than the inner ring defined by the not radially
expanded locking balls. The clamping means is operated, or
actuated, in that the actuating stud 100.2 is inserted into the
input drive pin 100, and the locking balls 100.6 are thus pressed
radially outward. As a result, a separate elastic body in the form
of an extension sleeve 100.1 is expanded in terms of its diameter,
which can be notched or slotted, in order to keep the actuation
force as low as possible. This sleeve prevents, in an advantageous
manner, point contact between the locking balls and the sterile
barrier, which encases the pin 100 (not shown), and enables a
uniform pressure to be exerted over the largest possible contact
surface. As a result, the contact rigidity can be increased, and
the surface pressure to the sterile barrier can be minimized. The
actuating stud 100.2 is displaced beyond the dead center of the
locking-ball mechanism, such that the locking balls are retracted
slightly, radially inward, behind the spherical head of the
actuating stud, in order to maintain the clamping force in a stable
manner.
[0231] A spindle drive, in particular, can serve as an actuator for
actuating the output drive element or the input drive element, as
is explained, for example, in reference to FIG. 22, wherein the
clamping mechanism, or the clamping means, can be actuated in
relation to the actuator, or independently thereof. In the first
case, the insertion movement of the drive unit acts on the
actuating stud 100.2, as explained in reference to FIGS.
23A-23C.
[0232] FIGS. 25A-25C show the steps for the force-controlled
coupling process of the output drive assembly and the input drive
assembly to one another by means of the mechanical interface in
FIGS. 24A-24B, in a depiction corresponding to FIGS. 23A-23C, to
which supplementary reference is made. FIG. 25A shows the situation
prior to the coupling. The drive unit 1 is covered by a sterile
casing, and the instrument shaft is secured to the drive unit. The
input drive pin 100 is inserted in a lower boundary layer. FIG. 25B
shows the situation immediately following the coupling: in order to
reliably insert the input drive pin into the coupling socket of the
instrument shaft, the output drive element 100 is driven against an
end stop in the instrument shaft, and the coupling mechanism is
triggered, or the clamping means is actuated, respectively. The
locking balls 100.6 are pressed radially outward by the actuating
stud 100.2, and the mechanical connection of the output drive
element and the input drive element is thus established. As shown
in FIG. 25C, the mechanical connection is maintained in the entire
working range of the instrument, because the dead center of the
clamping mechanism has been overcome.
[0233] In an instrument assembly according to the present
invention, the instrument shaft can have a flange, in particular,
wherein the mechanical interface is disposed on a surface of this
flange that faces the end effector, faces away from the end
effector, or a lateral surface of this flange. In other words, the
drive unit 1 can be designed as a "back-loading," "front-loading"
or "side-loading" drive unit.
[0234] For clarification, advantageous joining directions for an
instrument shaft onto a drive unit of an instrument assembly are
schematically depicted in FIGS. 25A-26C, according to various
embodiments of the present invention. According to one embodiment,
which is indicated by way of example in FIG. 26A, the instrument
shaft is joined to the drive unit along the insertion direction of
the instrument into the patient, which is referred to for this
reason, as "back-loading." In another embodiment, indicated by way
of example in FIG. 26B, the instrument shaft is joined to the drive
unit counter in the insertion direction of the instrument into the
patient, which is referred to, accordingly, as "front-loading." In
another embodiment, indicated by way of example in FIG. 26C, the
instrument shaft is joined to the drive unit in a direction
transverse to the insertion direction of the instrument in the
patient, which is referred to as "side-loading." The instrument
assembly shown in FIG. 26A-26C can relate, in particular, to one of
the embodiments explained in reference to one of the other figures,
such that reference is made thereto for a description thereof.
[0235] FIGS. 27A-27C show a mechanical interface of an instrument
assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention,
this being in a perspective view (FIG. 27A), and two sections in
different stroke positions (FIGS. 27B, 27C). Features corresponding
to those in other embodiments are indicated with identical
reference symbols, such that only the differences shall be
addressed below, and otherwise, reference is made to the overall
description.
[0236] With this embodiment, a gap having a radial wave shape is
formed between the pin and the cut-out, in which a radially
displaceable, axially stationary, intermediate element assembly is
disposed, for transferring a translational movement via a sterile
barrier.
[0237] For this, the pin 100 is designed with a circumferential
notching, and an instrument shaft-side coupling socket 200 is
designed with a circumferential annular profile on the inside
thereof. The pin and the coupling socket are designed such that, in
the joined state, a preferably equidistant wave-shaped gap is
formed between these components. Rod-shaped intermediate elements
100.7 of an intermediate element assembly are inserted in this gap,
which support a cage sleeve 100.8 in a spatially stationary manner,
and can only be displaced radially. The thin, foil-like sterile
barrier (not shown) is disposed between the coupling socket and the
cage sleeve. By axially displacing the pin 100 (vertically in FIGS.
27A-27C), the input drive-side part of the wave-shaped gap is
pushed between the pin and the coupling socket. As a result of the
kinematic constraints in the interface, the coupling socket is
pushed axially, or translationally, respectively, onto the pin, as
is indicated in the series of figures, FIGS. 27B-27C. In a further
development, the intermediate elements of the intermediate element
assembly can be designed in the manner of sleeves, on the front
surfaces of which balls are rotatably disposed in order to reduce
the frictional resistance.
[0238] FIGS. 28, 29 show mechanical interfaces of instrument
assemblies according to further embodiments of the present
invention. Features corresponding to those in other embodiments are
indicated with identical reference symbols, such that only the
differences shall be addressed below, and otherwise, reference is
made to the overall description.
[0239] In this embodiment, the mechanical interface has a tilt
lever, in order to transfer, in particular, a translational input
drive movement via a sterile barrier. A particular advantage of
this concept is a simple design for the sterile barrier: it need
only be designed for the tilting movement of the lever, and can, in
a further development, be manufactured in a simple manner as a
plastic molded part, from a thermoplastic elastomer or silicone,
for example, in particular as a deep-drawn film. The tilting angle
of the lever can be adjusted by a rotary drive, in one embodiment,
in particular an electric motor, optionally with a gearing
interposed therebetween. The sterile barrier can encase the entire
drive unit, and can also be pulled over the lever. In a further
development that is not shown, the lever (in FIGS. 28, 29, by way
of example: 1000) can, in general, be extended at its end facing
away from the contact, or the sterile barrier (below in FIGS. 28,
29), beyond its pivot bearing, and be coupled there to a drive, or
an instrument shaft-side drive train, respectively, such as a pull
cable or a rod assembly, for example.
[0240] The tilt lever (in FIGS. 28, 29 by way of example: 1000) in
one embodiment is coupled, in general, in a form-locking manner
with a coupling part, in particular it can be inserted in a groove
of a coupling part, (in FIGS. 28, 29 by way of example: 2000) as is
indicated in the embodiments in FIGS. 28, 29. The tilt lever can be
coupled, in particular, with an output drive element of the output
drive assembly of the drive unit, or represent such, and the
coupling part, accordingly, can be coupled to an input drive
element of the input drive assembly of the instrument shaft, or
represent such, and the coupling part can be coupled, accordingly,
to an output drive element of the output drive assembly of the
drive unit, or represent such.
[0241] The coupling part 2000 can, in one embodiment, indicated by
way of example in FIG. 28, can be guided by a thrust bearing 2000.1
such that it can be adjusted in a translational manner. Thus, the
rotational movement of the tilt lever 1000 is tapped into, for
example, in the instrument shaft, as a translational movement, or
is exerted on the drive unit as a translational movement. The
kinematics of this interface is nonlinear, and is therefore, in a
further development, compensated for in a computer, or in the drive
unit control device.
[0242] Because a tilt lever in a further development is
gimbal-mounted, movements in two degrees of freedom can also be
transferred. For this, the illustration in FIG. 28, by way of
example, is to be regarded as a cutaway depiction in two planes
that are perpendicular to one another. An interface with a tilt
lever for actuating in three degrees of freedom can be formed by
means of the tilt lever being able to be displaced optionally along
its longitudinal axis as well (vertically in FIG. 28).
[0243] In another embodiment, indicated by way of example in FIG.
29, the coupling part, coupled to the tilt lever in a form-locking
manner, can likewise be rotatably supported, or guided in a pivot
bearing. This embodiment can also be expanded for actuation of two
or more degrees of freedom, as is explained above in reference to
FIG. 28.
[0244] The figures in FIGS. 30A-30C, 31A-31C, 32A-32B show
instrument assemblies according to further embodiments of the
present invention, having a sterile barrier which--at least during
a surgical operation--encases a drive unit, and is disposed between
the drive unit and an instrument shaft coupled thereto by means of
a mechanical interface. The drive unit, instrument shaft and/or
mechanical interface can, in particular, be of the type in the
other embodiments and figures, such that features corresponding to
those in the other embodiments are indicated with identical
reference symbols, and only the differences shall be addressed
below, and otherwise, reference is made to the overall
description.
[0245] The sterile barrier can in general be designed, in
particular as a single piece and/or as a film tube. In a further
development, the sterile barrier is designed to be airtight, or
encases the drive unit in an airtight manner, respectively. As is
described below, in reference to FIGS. 30A-30C, 31A-31C, 32A-32B, a
transference of an input drive movement, or an actuation,
respectively, from an output drive element to an input drive
element does not occur through an opening in the sterile barrier,
but rather, is transferred via the sterile barrier that is closed
in this region.
[0246] In one embodiment, which is depicted in two variants in
FIGS. 30A-30C, the sterile barrier has at least one pre-tensioned
cuff in the region of the mechanical interface, in particular, one
each in the region of each output drive element, in an adjustment
direction of the output drive and input drive assemblies. The
pre-tensioned cuff is designed as an elastic bellows in a further
development, in particular as an elastomer bellows, preferably as a
corrugated membrane (in FIG. 30A, by way of example: 3.2) or as a
corrugated bellows (in FIG. 30B, by way of example: 3.3), which is
directly integrated in the sterile casing, or is an integral part
thereof, which, in particular, is originally formed therein, or
shaped therein. In another embodiment, depicted as a variant in
FIG. 30C, the sterile barrier has at least one cuff in the region
of the mechanical interface, in particular one each in the region
of each output drive element, which is not pre-tensioned, in an
adjustment direction of the output drive and input drive
assemblies. This, at least substantially, not pre-tensioned cuff is
designed, in a further development, as a preferably elastic sleeve,
in particular as a thermoplastic or elastomer sleeve (in FIG. 30C,
by way of example: 3.4), which is integrated directly in the
sterile casing, or is designed as an integral part thereof, in
particular, is originally formed therein, or shaped therein.
[0247] FIG. 30A shows one embodiment as a flat corrugated membrane
3.2, FIG. 30B as a corrugated bellows 3.3, the cross-section of
which can be, in particular, cylindrical or conical. Both bellows
form cuffs in the adjustment direction (vertical in FIGS. 30A-30C),
in which a returning pre-tension is imposed by the pleating, or the
pre-formed corrugation, which compensates for the stroke occurring
when the output drive element (in FIGS. 30A-30C, by way of example:
10A, 100 or 1000) is actuated in an adjustment direction.
[0248] In another embodiment, which is depicted in three variants
in FIGS. 31A-31C, the sterile barrier has at least one seal (in
FIGS. 31A-31C, by way of example: 3.5) in the region of the
mechanical interface, in particular one each in the region of each
output drive element, which can be translationally displaced
without contact. This can be designed, in a further development,
indicated by way of example in FIG. 31A, as an axially displaceable
gap seal. Likewise, in a further development, indicated by way of
example in FIG. 31B, it can be designed as a labyrinth seal. As
indicated by way of example in FIG. 31C, a seal that can be
displaced translationally can preferably be telescoping, in
particular in the form of a one- or multi-step telescoping sleeve
(in FIG. 31C, by way of example: three-step).
[0249] FIGS. 32A-32B show a further embodiment of the sterile
barrier in the region of the mechanical interfaces, in particular
of at least one, preferably each, output drive element or input
drive element, which is distinguished by a very simple structure
and production. The sterile barrier has a sterile element extension
for at least one, preferably each, output drive or input drive
element, which can be releasably connected to an element base,
which passes through the sterile barrier in a destructive manner.
As indicated in the series of figures, FIGS. 32A-32B, an output
drive element base 11 passes through the sterile barrier 3, by way
of example, in a destructive manner, and the region that has passed
through the barrier is releasably connected with a sterile element
extension 3.6 to an output drive element, as is indicated in the
other embodiments and figures, for example, by the reference
symbols 10A, 10B, 100 or 1000. Likewise, conversely, an input drive
base 21 can also pass through the sterile barrier 3 in a
destructive manner, and can be releasably connected with its region
passing through the barrier, with a sterile element extension 3.6,
to an input drive element, as is indicated in the other embodiments
and figures, for example, by the reference symbols 20A, 20B, 200 or
2000.
[0250] In one embodiment, indicated by way of example in FIGS.
32A-32B, the sterile barrier has, in the regions of the element
bases passing through it, in each case one, preferably annular,
reinforcement 3.7, formed, for example, by plastic disks glued
thereto, originally formed local wall thickness reinforcements,
and/or local modifications of the material. In the middle of the
reinforced region, the sterile barrier can again be designed as a
thin membrane. After it has been encased, the drive unit is placed
on a pin of the sterile extension 3.6, as described above. For
this, the thin membrane of the sterile barrier is penetrated inside
the annular reinforcement. The securing of the sterile extension
can, in particular, be friction-locking, material bonded, and/or
form-locking, by means of a screw or bayonet connection, or it can
also be obtained by means of a ball-lock bolt.
[0251] FIGS. 33A-33B show an instrument assembly according to a
further embodiment of the present invention, having a sterile
barrier 3, which--at least during a surgical operation--encases a
drive unit 1, and is disposed between the drive unit and an
instrument shaft 2 coupled thereto by means of a mechanical
interface. The drive unit 1, instrument shaft 2, and/or mechanical
interface 3 can, in particular, be of the types in the other
embodiments and figures, such that features corresponding to those
in the other embodiments are indicated by identical reference
symbols, and only the differences shall be addressed below, and
otherwise, reference is made to the overall description.
[0252] The instrument assembly has an attachment element in the
form of a sterile adapter 4, for the releasable attachment of the
instrument shaft 2 to the drive unit 1, which is to be, or is,
disposed on a surface of the sterile barrier facing away from the
drive unit.
[0253] The drive unit 1, which has numerous crank pins 100, by way
of example in the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 33A-33B, is enclosed
in the sterile casing 3. The covers for the output drive elements
are integrated in the sterile casing in the embodiment depicted in
FIGS. 33A-33B, by way of example as elastomer bellows, as has been
explained above in reference to FIGS. 30A-30C. After the drive unit
is enclosed by the sterile barrier, the sterile adapter 4 is
secured from the outside onto the drive unit in its sterile
packaging. The adapter 4 thus does not interact with the output
drive elements 100, but rather, only makes available a mechanical
interface for attaching the instrument shaft 2 to the encased drive
unit 1. This separation of the mechanical coupling from the output
drive and input drive elements, on one hand (by means of the
mechanical interface) and the mechanical attachment of the drive
unit and the instrument shaft, on the other hand (by means of the
attachment element, or the adapter, respectively), facilitates the
sterile manipulation of the instrument assembly. In one embodiment,
indicated by way of example in FIGS. 33A-33B, the adapter 4 can be,
or is, connected to the instrument shaft and the drive unit in a
form- and/or friction-locking manner, by means of locking, or clip,
connections, for example, wherein the sterile casing 3 is also
sealed, or free of holes, respectively, between the locking
projections and cut-outs on the drive unit and adapter, thus
ensuring sterility.
[0254] The preceding instrument assemblies are robot-guided, or
configured for attachment to a manipulator of a manipulator
surgical system, respectively, in a further development. In
particular, for this the drive unit 1, the instrument shaft 2,
and/or an attachment element, or an adapter 4, respectively, can
have a correspondingly configured attachment interface, such as
cut-outs, locking mechanisms, or suchlike, corresponding
thereto.
[0255] In the above, components of an inventive instrument
assembly, in particular, have been described, wherein, however,
methods for equipping a manipulator of a manipulator surgical
system are also comprised in the invention, in which a modular,
motor powered, drive unit and an instrument shaft are releasably
connected to one another, and the output drive assembly and the
input drive assembly are coupled to one another thereby, by means
of the mechanical interface, as is shown in the various series of
figures, FIG. 23A.fwdarw.FIG. 23B.fwdarw.FIG. 23C; FIG.
25A.fwdarw.FIG. 25B.fwdarw.FIG. 25C; and FIG. 32A.fwdarw.FIG. 32B,
as well as by the assembly arrows in FIGS. 26A-26C and FIGS.
33A-33B.
[0256] FIG. 34 shows a part of a robot-guided minimally invasive
surgical instrument according to one embodiment of the present
invention, having a drive module 10 and an instrument shaft 20,
releasably connected thereto in a manner that is not shown in
detail, having an end effector in the form of a moveable clamp,
having two blades 2.1, 2.2. One embodiment of the invention shall
be explained below, in particular, based on the blade 2.1; the
construction and function of the blade 2.2 is analogous thereto,
such that reference in this respect is made thereto.
[0257] The blade 2.1 has a rotational degree of freedom q.sub.1
with respect to the instrument shaft 20. In order to actuate this
degree of freedom, or to open or close the blade 2.1 of the clamp,
respectively, two drive trains 21, 22 of an instrument shaft-side
drive train assembly are connected in an articulated manner, in
opposing directions, to the blade 2.1. The drive trains 21, 22 can,
for example, be push rods, or tappets, respectively, which are
mounted in the instrument shaft such that they can be moved in a
translational manner.
[0258] In order to actuate the push rods 21, 22 in opposing
directions, the input drive module has two drive trains 11, 12,
acting in opposing directions, which can be actuated in opposing
directions by means of an electric motor 13 of a drive in the input
drive module. The drive trains 11, 12 can likewise be push rods, or
tappets, respectively, which are mounted in the input drive module
such that they can be moved in a translational manner.
[0259] A flexible sterile barrier 4 is, optionally, disposed in an
interface between the input drive module and the instrument shaft,
by means of which the instrument shaft-side drive train assembly
and the input drive module-side drive train assembly can be
releasably coupled to one another.
[0260] The drive train assemblies are translationally coupled in a
one-sided manner: the push rods, or tappets 11 and 21, or 12 and
22, respectively, are translationally displaceable, and can only
transfer pressure forces via the sterile barrier.
[0261] In order to ensure the force connection between the push
rods, or tappets 11 and 21, and 12 and 22, which can only transfer
pressure forces via the sterile barrier 4, the input drive
module-side drive train assembly is pre-tensioned against the
interface, as indicated in FIG. 34, by means of a bearing of the
electric motor 13, pre-tensioned by means of a spring 5, with the
drive train assembly coupled thereto.
[0262] A first metering means, in the form of a strain meter strip
31 of a metering assembly, is disposed on the first input drive
module-side drive train 11 for registering a load F.sub.1 in this
drive train, and a third metering means, in the form of a strain
meter strip 33 of a metering assembly, is disposed opposite the
first metering means.
[0263] A second metering means, in the form of a strain meter strip
32 of the metering assembly, is disposed on the second input drive
module-side drive train 12 for actuating the same degree of freedom
q.sub.1 of the blade 2.1 of the end effector, for registering a
load F.sub.2 in this drive train, and a fourth metering means, in
the form of a strain meter strip 34 of the metering assembly, is
disposed opposite the second metering means.
[0264] As is shown in FIG. 35, the first metering means 31 in a
first branch, the second metering means 32 in a second branch, the
third metering means 33 in a third branch, and the fourth metering
means 34 in a fourth branch, of a Wheatstone full-bridge circuit
are coupled to one another with signal-based technology.
[0265] For this, the second metering means 32 is interposed in a
supply voltage U.sub.E in series with the first metering means 31,
the third metering means 33 is interposed in the supply voltage in
parallel to the second metering means 32, and the fourth metering
means 34 is interposed in the supply voltage in parallel to the
first metering means 31.
[0266] Through the interconnection of the first and third, or
second and fourth, metering means, respectively, to a linked output
signal in the form of a bridge output voltage U.sub.A, bending
loads, in particular, in the drive trains 11, 12, which do not
correspond to any active forces of the end effector, can be
compensated for. By interconnecting the first and third, or second
and fourth, metering means, respectively, in the bridge output
voltage U.sub.A, the shared pre-tension, in particular, of the
input drive module-side drive train assembly, which acts on the
opposing tappets 11, 12, and thus is not an active force actuating
the blade 2.1, can be compensated for. With equalized bridges in
the unloaded state, an at least substantially linear correlation is
obtained, in the embodiment example, between the force actuating
the blade 2.1, which has been freed of the pre-tension of the
spring 5, i.e. is active, and twice the tension registered by the
strain meter strip 31, thus, advantageously, an additional,
signal-based reinforcement of the registered load.
[0267] As is indicated in FIG. 34, the metering means 31-34 of the
metering assembly are oriented for registering axial pressure loads
in the longitudinal direction of the drive trains 11, 12, and
disposed in radial cut-outs in the drive trains 11, 12.
[0268] In particular, in order to control the electric motor 13
and/or a manual teleoperation means, such as a mirroring
instrument, for example (not shown), the active, or generalized
loads F.sub.1, F.sub.2 are registered by the metering means 31-34,
and the drive and the teleoperation means are controlled on the
basis of these registered loads. In this manner, a haptic feedback
can be transmitted to the teleoperator, for example, pertaining to
the clamping force exerted by the end effector on a lumen, or
pertaining to, respectively, the resistance exerted by the lumen on
the clamps 2.1, 2.2.
[0269] FIG. 36 shows, for purposes of a more compact depiction,
both a part of a control means, as well as a method according to
one embodiment of the present invention.
[0270] A control means 3, which can be implemented in a control for
the robot, for example, which guides the minimally invasive
surgical instrument in FIG. 34, receives the linked output signal
U.sub.A from the metering assembly 31-34 (cf. FIG. 35 as well),
which is, as explained above, in particular, proportional to twice
the load F.sub.1 in the drive train 11. The control means 3
establishes a command S based on this load, registered by the
metering assembly, which it conveys, by way of example, to a motor
control for the electric motor 13, or a teleoperation means in the
form of a mirroring instrument (not shown), such that the motor 13
implements a desired target force in the drive train 11, or,
respectively, the mirroring instrument conveys a virtual load to
the teleoperator, corresponding to the actual forces F.sub.E1,
F.sub.E2 acting on the end effector.
[0271] A method, which is executed, for example, by the control
means 3 explained above, controls the drive 13, or the mirror
instrument, respectively, in a corresponding manner, in that, in
one step, it receives the linked output signal U.sub.A from the
metering assembly 31-34, and establishes the command S, based on
this load registered by the metering assembly, which controls, for
example, the motor control for the electric motor 13, or the
mirroring instrument, such that the motor 13 implements the desired
target force in the drive train 11, or the mirroring instrument,
respectively, conveys the virtual load to the teleoperator,
corresponding to the actual forces F.sub.E1, F.sub.E2 acting on the
end effector.
[0272] FIG. 37 shows a part of a robot-guided, minimally invasive
surgical instrument according to one embodiment of the present
invention, in a partial section. The instrument has an instrument
shaft 31 and a drive unit 30 releasably connected thereto.
[0273] The instrument shaft has an interface 42 for attachment to a
robot 40, which is covered by a sterile casing 41.
[0274] The instrument shaft has numerous degrees of freedom, two of
which are indicated, by way of example, in the embodiment
example:
[0275] The instrument shaft has a tube 54, which is mounted in
relation to an instrument shaft housing 53 in a pivot bearing. Two
cable pull drums 57c, 57d running in opposite directions, act in
opposite directions on a gear wheel 58, and are coupled, in each
case, to input drive links that shall be explained in greater
detail below, in the form of input drive tappets 37, 38 (cf. FIG.
38), which in turn, are actuated by output drive links in the form
of output drive tappets 34, 35 (cf. FIG. 38). The output drive and
input drive tappets 34/37, or 35/38, respectively, each form a pair
of tappets, which are indicated in FIG. 37 by the numerals 45a-45d.
The tube 54 can be rotated in the pivot bearing 55 in both
directions by means of opposing actuations of the pair of tappets
45c, 45d, and thus, this degree of freedom of the instrument shaft
31 can be actuated.
[0276] An end effector (not shown) is disposed on the end of the
tube 54 that is distanced from the drive unit, which has at least
one degree of freedom in relation to the tube and/or at least one
functional degree of freedom, such as the opening and closing of a
forceps, for example. Two cable pull drums 57a, 57b, running in
opposite directions, act in opposite directions on the end
effector, and are coupled to input drive links in the form of input
drive tappets 37, 38 (cf. FIG. 38), which shall be explained in
greater detail below, which in turn are actuated by output drive
links in the form of output drive tappets 34, 35 (cf. FIG. 38). A
degree of freedom of the end effector can be actuated by mean of
actuation of the pair of tappets 45a, 45b in opposing
directions.
[0277] The input drive tappets 37, 38 are mounted, in the
embodiment example, in a translational manner, or displaceably, in
an interface 56a, or 56b, respectively, of the instrument shaft 31.
In a variation, which is not depicted, rotational or rotatable
input drive shafts can, likewise, be coupled in a non-rotatable
manner to the output drive shafts; one embodiment of the present
invention, having displaceable output drive and input drive links,
is thus explained, merely by way of example, without being limited
thereto.
[0278] The drive unit 30 has a housing 49, in which, by way of
example, two input drive modules 47a, 4b for actuating the degrees
of freedom, explained above, of the instrument shaft, are disposed.
The input drive modules each have a drive in the form of an
electric motor 44a, or 44b, respectively, and an output drive link
assembly having two translationally moveable output drive links,
which form the output drive tappets of the pair of tappets 45a,
45b, or 45c, 45d, respectively.
[0279] The actuation of the input drive tappets by the output drive
tappets shall be explained below in reference to FIG. 38. For this,
the pairs of tappets 34/37 and 35/38 can likewise represent the
aforementioned pairs of tappets 45a and 45b, or 45c and 45d.
[0280] The drive 44, which can be the drive 44a or 44b in FIG. 37,
actuates, in opposing directions, the two output drive tappets 34
and 35, which are displaceably mounted in a housing for the input
drive module 47, which can be the input drive module 47a or 47b in
FIG. 37. The output drive link and input drive link assemblies 34,
35 and 37, 38 are coupled in a one-sided manner in the embodiment
example, via an optional, flexible sterile barrier 32. The input
drive tappets 37, 38 are coupled to a rocker via coupling rods,
which in turn, actuates the cable pull drums 57.1, 57.2 in opposing
directions, which can be the cable pull drums 57a, 57b, or 57c, 57d
in FIG. 37. The coupling rods and rocker form a gearing, which is
encircled in FIG. 38 with a line consisting of dots and dashes.
[0281] The input drive modules are, as indicated in FIGS. 37, 38,
moveably mounted and pre-tensioned in the housing 49 for the drive
unit 30, in each case in a coupling direction (horizontal in FIG.
37; vertical in FIG. 38), against an input drive link assembly 37,
38. The coupling directions for the two input drive modules 47a,
47b are parallel (cf. FIG. 37) to one another, and to the
respective actuation directions in which the links can be moved for
actuating the degrees of freedom of the instrument shaft.
[0282] The input drive modules can have a compression spring, which
restrains the input drive module in the housing, and pre-tensions
it in the coupling direction, or against the input drive link
assembly, respectively. This is indicated in FIG. 37 with the
numerals 46a and 46b, and in FIG. 38, collectively, with the
numeral 46.
[0283] In a variation shown in FIG. 41, the input drive module has,
instead, a magnet assembly for pre-tensioning the input drive
module.
[0284] In the embodiment example, the magnet assembly has an
electromagnet 100 on the housing 49 of the drive unit, on a side
facing the instrument shaft (below in FIG. 41) and a permanent
magnet 101 opposite this, which is disposed on the input drive
module 47. Additionally, an electromagnet 103 is disposed on the
housing on a side facing away from the instrument shaft (above in
FIG. 41), and a permanent magnet 104 is disposed opposite this on
the input drive module. Instead of the permanent magnets 101 and/or
104, a magnetically soft region can also be provided, which can be
attracted to the electromagnets 100 or 103 (when they are supplied
with current).
[0285] The activated electromagnet 100 magnetically attracts the
input drive module 47 in the coupling direction (downward in FIG.
41) and thus pre-tensions the output drive link assemblies 34, 35
against the input drive link assembly (not shown in FIG. 41).
Likewise, the activated electromagnet 103 can repel the permanent
magnet 104 of the same pole, and thus pre-tension the input drive
module 47 magnetically in the coupling direction, against the input
drive link assembly.
[0286] In a not depicted variation, one of the two electromagnets
100, 103 can be omitted. Additionally or alternatively, in a
variation, instead of the electromagnets 100 and/or 103, permanent
magnets can also be provided. The pre-tension effect of a permanent
magnet 101 can be reduced by supplying the electromagnet 103 with
current, in particular, it can be eliminated. If, in a variation, a
permanent magnet is disposed in place of the electromagnet 103,
having the opposite pole as that of the permanent magnet 104, or
attracting this magnet, respectively, or the permanent magnet 104
is replaced by a magnetically soft region of the input drive
module, then, as a result, a permanent magnetic input drive module
locking assembly for locking the retracted input drive module is
implemented, which shall be explained in greater detail below, in
reference to FIGS. 40A, 40B.
[0287] In the embodiment in FIG. 41, the magnet assembly has
numerous, preferably non-magnetic, spacing elements 102, which
prevent a direct contact between the permanent magnets or
electromagnets 100 on the housing of the drive unit with the
magnetically soft or hard region, in particular (further) permanent
magnets 101 on the input drive module. Likewise, preferably
non-magnetic, spacing elements 105 prevent a direct contact between
the permanent magnets, or electromagnets 103 and the magnetically
soft or hard region, in particular (further) permanent magnets
104.
[0288] FIG. 39 shows an input drive module and an input drive link
assembly coupled thereto, according to another embodiment of the
present invention corresponding to that depicted in FIG. 38.
Features corresponding to those in the other embodiments are
indicated with identical reference symbols, such that reference is
made to their description, and only the differences shall be
addressed below.
[0289] As is shown by way of example in FIG. 38, an input drive
module 47 can be moveably mounted directly in the housing 49 of the
drive unit 30, in particular in a form-locking manner, by means of
one or more grooves and/or ribs, for example. Additionally or
alternatively, as is shown, only by way of example, in the
embodiment in FIG. 39, in one embodiment of the present invention,
an output drive link assembly can be moveably mounted in the
housing of the drive unit, wherein the drive, in particular an
input drive module housing 47.1, is supported therein, moveably
mounted on the output drive link assembly, and is restrained, in
particular in an elastic manner and/or by means of permanent
magnets and/or electromagnets, against the housing for the drive
unit, and as a result, is pre-tensioned in the coupling direction.
In the embodiment in FIG. 39, the output drive tappets 34, 35 are
each moveably mounted in thrust bearings in the housing 49 for the
drive unit. A housing 47.1 for the input drive module, in which the
input drive acting on the output drive tappets 34, 35 in opposing
directions is supported, is restrained by a magnet assembly or
compression springs 46 against the housing 49 for the drive unit,
and as a result, is pre-tensioned in the coupling direction
(vertically downward in FIG. 39).
[0290] FIGS. 40A, 40B show an input drive module and an input drive
link assembly coupled thereto according to another embodiment of
the present invention corresponding to that in FIG. 38. Features
corresponding to those in the other embodiments are indicated by
identical reference symbols, such that reference is made to their
description, and only the differences shall be addressed below.
FIG. 40A shows the input drive module thereby, in a state in which
it is coupled to the input drive link assembly, FIG. 40B shows the
retracted, and locked in place, input drive module.
[0291] As explained above in reference to FIG. 41, the input drive
module 47 can be retracted against the pre-tensioning by means of a
selective, in particular a controlled, supplying of current to a
magnet assembly having at least one electromagnet 100 and/or 103.
This can, in particular, facilitate a coupling and decoupling of
the drive unit to and from the instrument shaft, because the (full)
pre-tensioning does not have to be overcome, in particular
manually, thereby. Thus, a magnet assembly supplied with current in
a corresponding manner, as has been explained in reference to FIG.
41, represents a magnetic retraction assembly for retracting the
input drive module against the pre-tensioning.
[0292] In the embodiment in FIG. 40, the drive has an output drive
means in the form of a rocker 59, to which the output drive tappets
34, 35 are coupled in opposing directions by means of coupling
rods. In order to actuate a degree of freedom of the instrument
shaft, the drive requires only a limited angular range, which thus
defines an actuating range. By this means, a retraction range is
delimited by a mechanical stop 60 for the rocker 59, which extends
for this purpose out of a housing for the input drive module
47.1.
[0293] As long as the input drive moves the rocker within the
actuation range, as indicated in FIG. 40A, the output drive tappets
are actuated in opposing directions. When the end of the retraction
range has been reached, the rocker 59 rests against the mechanical
stop 60, as shown in FIG. 40B. By rotating the rocker 59 further
into the retraction range, the input drive displaces the input
drive module against the pre-tension of the spring element 46 via
the rocker 59, and thus pulls the input drive module back, by means
of a motor, against the pre-tensioning. In a, not shown, variation,
the stop 60 does not interact with the rocker 59, but rather, with
one or both of the tappets 34, 35.
[0294] As is depicted in FIG. 41, the retraction assemblies 59, 60
can also be combined with a magnetic pre-tensioning, in particular
by means of a magnet assembly having permanent magnets 101 and/or
104.
[0295] In particular, in order to relieve the input drive, an input
drive module locking assembly for locking the retracted input drive
module in place can be provided. This has, in the embodiment in
FIG. 40B, a spring-loaded and manually or automatically releasable
latch 61, by means of which the output drive module, which has been
retracted against the pre-tensioning, is secured in a form-locking
manner.
[0296] The input drive module locking assembly can also be
magnetic. When a magnet, as explained in reference to FIG. 41, in
particular a permanent magnet 101, magnetically attracts a
magnetically soft region or a permanent magnet 104 of the opposite
pole, on the input drive module, the (more strongly pre-tensioned)
input drive module can be magnetically locked in place. In one
embodiment of the present invention, the retraction assembly is
also designed to release the locking, or to adjust the input drive
module in the coupling direction. For this, in one embodiment, a
mechanical counter-stop can be provided, in general, against which
the output drive means is supported, when it is adjusted in a feed
range differing from the actuation and retraction range. In the
embodiment in FIG. 41, a corresponding counter-stop 106 is disposed
on the housing for the drive unit, and defines a feed range
differing from the actuation range and the retraction range defined
by the stop 60. When the feed range has been reached, the rocker 59
rests, as depicted in FIG. 41, against the mechanical counter-stop
106. By further rotating the rocker 59 into the feed range, the
drive displaces the input drive module, via the rocker 59, against
the locking action of the magnet assembly 103, 104 in the coupling
direction (vertically downward in FIG. 41). Here as well, in a
variation, the stop 60 can interact with one or both of the tappets
34, 35, instead of with the rocker 59.
[0297] As is discernable, in particular, in FIGS. 42A-42B, 43A-44B,
44A-44B, 45A-45B, and 46A-46B, the coupling direction (horizontal
in the figures), in which the input drive module 47A, 47B is
moveably mounted and pre-tensioned in the housing 49, forms an
angle with the longitudinal axis of the instrument shaft 31
(vertical in the figures), which is substantially 90 degrees.
[0298] In the following, with reference to FIGS. 42A-42B, 43A-43B,
44A-44B, 45A-45B, 46A-46B, a mounting element for the instrument
shaft, for a form-locking, releasable attachment of the drive unit
shall be explained according to various embodiments of the present
invention. Features corresponding to those in other embodiments are
indicated by identical reference symbols, such that reference is
made to their description, and only the differences shall be
addressed below. The figures show, in each case, a part of the
instrument shaft, with its mounting element, and the drive unit,
still separated therefrom, wherein an insertion direction for the
drive unit in the mounting element is indicated by a movement
arrow.
[0299] The mounting element 80 in the embodiment in FIG. 42A has a
chamfered insertion opening 140 for inserting the drive unit 30 in
an insertion direction, wherein the insertion direction is parallel
to the longitudinal axis of the instrument shaft (vertical in FIG.
42A). The insertion opening 140 is disposed on the side facing away
from the instrument shaft (above in FIG. 42A).
[0300] The moveable input drive links of the input drive link
assembly 45.2 of the instrument shaft, such as the input drive
tappets 37, 38, by way of example, are perpendicular, as explained
above in reference to FIGS. 38-41, to the longitudinal axis of the
instrument shaft 31, as far as its mounting element 80, wherein the
interface, or the contact plane for the input drive link assembly
45.2 is parallel to the longitudinal axis.
[0301] In the embodiment in FIG. 42B, the input drive link assembly
45.2 of the instrument shaft 31 is disposed in a recess 142.
Additionally or alternatively, the output drive link assembly 45.1
of the drive unit 30, the output drive tappets 34, 35, for example,
as explained above in reference to FIGS. 38-41, is disposed in a
recess 143, when it is retracted by the retraction assembly against
the pre-tensioning. After inserting the drive unit 30 in the
mounting element 80, and unlocking the retraction assembly, or
building up a pre-tension, respectively, the pre-tensioned output
drive link assembly 45.1, which then protrudes out of the recess
143, makes contact with the input drive link assembly 45.2 of the
instrument shaft 31.
[0302] The embodiment in FIG. 43A corresponds substantially to that
in FIG. 42A. For the form-locking attachment of the drive unit 30
in the mounting element 80 of the instrument shaft 31, a bayonet
coupling, having at least one projection 151 on the housing 49, is
provided, which engages in a cut-out 150 in the mounting element 80
as a result of rotating the drive unit. Likewise, the projection
151, in a variation, can engage in the cut-out 150 in the mounting
element 80 as a result of a displacement (horizontally, toward the
left in FIG. 43A), instead of by means of a rotation, wherein this
displacement preferably occurs as a result of applying the
pre-tensioning force. The user thus pushes the drive unit
(vertically from above in FIG. 43A) into the mounting element.
Subsequently, a coupling procedure is initiated, in particular
manually or automatically, in which the pre-tensioning force is
applied to the interfaces. As a result, the projection 151 on the
drive unit is pushed into the cut-out 150, perpendicular to the
insertion direction, and thus the drive unit is locked in place in
a form-locking manner.
[0303] The embodiment in FIG. 43B corresponds substantially to
those in FIGS. 42A, 43A. The mounting element 80 in this embodiment
has a multi-part form-locking guide for inserting the drive unit 30
in the insertion direction. The guide has numerous guide grooves
152, which interact with corresponding projections 153 on the
housing 49 for the drive unit 30 in a form-locking manner, in order
to attach the housing in a form-locking manner in the mounting
element 80 of the instrument shaft 31. The guide grooves 152 are
substantially L-shaped, such that the drive unit in turn can be
secured in the mounting element in a form-locking manner by means
of a rotation thereof. As with the bayonet coupling of the
embodiment according to FIG. 43A, the drive unit, after it has been
inserted in the mounting element, is rotated, and as a result,
secured in a form-locking manner, such that it is pre-tensioned
counter to the insertion direction, by means of a corresponding
oversize, or an elastic spring element (not shown), in order to
thus counteract, in a friction-locking manner, a reverse rotation,
and thus a release of the drive unit. Likewise, in a variation such
as the variation explained above in reference to FIG. 43A, the
projections 153 can be displaced perpendicular to the insertion
direction, as a result of a displacement in the short leg of the
cut-out 152, wherein this displacement in turn, preferably occurs
by applying the pre-tensioning force. The user thus pushes the
drive unit (vertically from above in FIG. 43B) into the mounting
element. In doing so, the projections 153 slide in the long leg of
the L-shaped cut-outs 152, as far as the bend thereof. Subsequently
a coupling procedure is initiated, in particular manually or
automatically, in which the pre-tensioning force is applied to the
interfaces. As a result, the projections 153 on the drive unit are
pushed into the cut-outs 152, perpendicular to the insertion
direction, and thus the drive unit is locked in place in a
form-locking manner.
[0304] The embodiment in FIG. 44A corresponds substantially to that
in FIG. 43B, wherein here, a guide rib 161, which extends in the
insertion direction, is inserted in a complementary guide groove
160 on the mounting element 80, and will be, or is, secured
therein, in a friction-locking manner, for example. In one
embodiment of the present invention, as is depicted by way of
example in FIG. 44A, the mounting element has, in general, in
addition to the insertion opening, a further opening (left in FIG.
44A), in particular in order to improve a signal-based and/or
energy-based connection (not shown) for the drive unit.
[0305] In the embodiment in FIG. 44B, the insertion direction is
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the instrument shaft. The
insertion opening is disposed on the side facing away from the
instrument shaft (left in FIG. 44B).
[0306] In the embodiment in FIG. 44B, a drive unit locking assembly
is provided for the form-locking locking in place of the drive unit
30 in the mounting element 80, in the form of a moveable,
pre-tensioned latch 167, which catches in the drive unit 30 when it
is placed in the mounting element 80. Although it is not depicted,
a drive unit locking assembly of this type, or similar thereto, can
also be provided in the other embodiments, in particular in
addition to, or alternatively to a form-locking securing, in
particular a bayonet coupling, or a friction-locking securing.
[0307] The mounting element 80 in the embodiment in FIG. 44B has
one or more guide ribs 165, which engage in corresponding guide
grooves 166 in the housing 49 for the drive unit 30. As is
described in reference to FIG. 42B, the input drive link assembly
45.2 is disposed in a recess 164.
[0308] The embodiment in FIG. 45A corresponds substantially to that
in FIG. 44B, wherein the insertion opening can be closed by a
pivotable lid 170, in order to secure the drive unit 30 against the
insertion direction in a form-locking manner.
[0309] In the embodiment in FIG. 45B, the mounting element 80 can
be pivoted in relation to the longitudinal axis of the instrument
shaft. This makes it possible, as indicated in FIG. 45B by the
movement arrow, to first insert the drive unit 30 into the mounting
element that has been pivoted to a mounting position (cf. FIG.
45B), and then to pivot the mounting element into a locking
position, wherein the drive unit is then secured in a form-locking
manner in this locking position in the mounting element.
[0310] In the embodiment in FIG. 46A, the drive unit 30 has a
convergent positive displacement means for forcing the input drive
link assembly of the instrument shaft into the mounting element of
the instrument shaft when the drive unit is being inserted. The
convergent positive displacement means in the embodiment in FIG.
46A has a convex, in particular a chamfered or elliptical, surface,
which converges in a first section 180a in the insertion direction,
and thus pushes back input drive links of the input drive link
assembly 45.2 that protrude further than normal in a form-locking
manner. A surface 180b diverging in the insertion direction,
likewise convex in the embodiment in FIG. 46A, adjoins the surface
180a converging in the insertion direction, in order to also push
back input drive links that protrude from the mounting element 80
when removing the drive unit 30.
[0311] In the embodiment in FIG. 46B, the drive unit 30 has, on the
contrary, a moveable positive displacement means, in the form of
numerous rotatable rollers 181a, 181b, which pushes back input
drive links of the input drive link assembly 45.2 that protrude
further than normal during the insertion, and thus levels the input
drive link assembly. After rolling over the rollers 181a, 181b, or
the convex surface 180a, the input drive links then project, at
least substantially, to the same degree toward the mounting element
on the instrument shaft.
[0312] FIG. 47 shows, schematically, a surgical instrument
according to one embodiment of the present invention, having an
instrument shaft 20. The instrument shaft has a rigid, articulated,
or flexible tube 22, on the distal end of which an end effector 21
is disposed, having one or more functional and/or kinematic degrees
of freedom. In a proximal instrument housing 23 of the instrument
shaft, an input drive module 25 is releasably connected, at an
interface 24, to the instrument shaft. The tube 22 can be secured
to, or rotatably mounted on, the instrument housing 23, such that
the tube 22 has one degree of freedom about its longitudinal
axis.
[0313] FIGS. 48A, 48B show this interface in different
perspectives. For a better overview, only a few components of the
input drive module 25 and the instrument shaft 20 are depicted, and
are thus indicated with an apostrophe ('). In particular, only one
drive train for actuating a degree of freedom of the instrument
shaft is shown; further drive trains have an analogous
construction, and are disposed, for example, parallel to the shown
drive train.
[0314] Each drive train has an actuator in the form of an electric
motor-gearing unit 31', the output drive shaft of which represents
an output drive link of the input drive module that can rotate
without limits.
[0315] An input drive link 32' is coupled to this output drive link
in a manner described below, which is inserted in a form-locking
manner in a thrust bearing 34' such that it can be displaced in a
displacement axis B' in the instrument shaft.
[0316] The input drive link is connected to the end effector 21 by
a pulling means, or a push rod 36, (not shown) in order to actuate
the input drive link, wherein the push rod is parallel to the
displacement axis B'. The input drive link can be displaced between
two end stops 37.1, 37.2 (cf. FIGS. 53A-53B, not shown in FIGS.
48A-48B).
[0317] A linear groove 33' is disposed on the input drive link,
which is perpendicular to the displacement axis B'. A guide element
30' is disposed eccentrically on the rotatable output drive link,
and inserted in the groove such that it can be displaced, when the
output drive link and the input drive link are coupled to one
another. The rotational axis for the rotatable output drive link is
perpendicular to the displacement axis B' of the displaceably
guided input drive link and the groove.
[0318] The guide element 30' has a pin, on which a roller element
in the form of a ball race is mounted, in a sliding or rolling
manner. In a variation, instead of this, a roller element without
an outer race can also be disposed on the pin.
[0319] FIGS. 49A-49B show the steps for coupling the guide element
to the groove, and FIGS. 49C-49F show the steps for the actuation
of the input drive link by the output drive link.
[0320] In FIG. 49A, the input drive module and the instrument shaft
are connected to one another, wherein the output drive link and the
input drive link 32' are not yet coupled to one another. By
rotating the output drive link (cf. movement arrow A' in FIGS. 48A,
49C) the guide element 30' rotates through an opening in the, in
FIGS. 49A-49F, upper, guide wall of the groove 33' into the groove
(cf. movement arrow F in FIG. 49A) and thus couples--initially in a
one-sided manner--the output drive link and the input drive link
(FIG. 49B). When the output drive link is rotated further (cf.
movement arrow A' in FIG. 49C), the guide element 30', which is now
inserted in the groove 33', pushes the input drive link 32' into
the thrust bearing 34' in its displacement axis B'. In FIGS.
49D-49F it is clear how the rotating of the output drive link
displaces the input drive link on both sides along its displacement
axis B', and can thus actuate the end effector: by rotating the
output drive link and the guide element 30' eccentrically disposed
thereon, in the direction of, or opposite, respectively, the
movement arrow A' in FIG. 49C, the input drive link 32' can be
displaced in its displacement axis B' in both directions (up or
down in FIGS. 49A-49F), and thus, an intracorporeal degree of
freedom of the instrument is actuated via the pulling means, or the
push rod 36, respectively (cf. FIGS. 48A-48B).
[0321] In the embodiment in FIGS. 48A-48B, 49A-49F, the (upper, in
the figures) guide wall of the groove has an opening for inserting
the guide element by rotating its output drive link, which is
formed by a shortened leg of an open, or U-shaped pair of legs,
which in turn defines the groove.
[0322] FIG. 50 shows, in a manner corresponding to that of FIGS.
48A-48B, an interface of a surgical instrument according to a
further embodiment of the present invention, in a partial section.
As is the case in FIGS. 48A-48B, for a better overview, only some
of the components of an input drive module 125 and instrument shaft
120 are depicted, in particular only one drive train for actuating
a degree of freedom of the instrument shaft is shown, while further
drive trains can be constructed in an analogous manner, and be
disposed, for example, parallel to the shown drive train.
[0323] Each drive train has an actuator in the form, for example,
of an electric motor-gearing unit 131, the output drive shaft of
which represents an output drive link of the input drive module,
which can rotate without limit.
[0324] An input drive link 132 is linked to this output drive link
in a manner described below, which is inserted, in a form-locking
manner, in a thrust bearing (not shown) in the instrument shaft
that can be displaced in a displacement axis B'', and is connected
to the end effector by a pulling means or a push rod, which is
parallel to the displacement axis B''.
[0325] A linear groove (cut in FIG. 50) is disposed in the input
drive link, which is perpendicular to the displacement axis B'' and
an axis of a guide element 130, which is disposed eccentrically on
the rotatable output drive link and displaceably guided in the
groove, when the output drive link and the input drive link are
coupled to one another. The rotational axis of the rotatable output
drive link is perpendicular to the displacement axis B'' of the
displaceably guided input drive link and the groove. The eccentric
guide element 130 is supported on a frame 139 of the actuator 131
via a radial bearing 140.
[0326] A tolerance element 132.3 is provided in the embodiment in
FIG. 50. The tolerance element is displaceably guided on the input
drive link 132 parallel to its displacement axis B'', and
pre-tensioned in an elastic manner against it by means of a spring
element 132.4. In this manner, the tolerance element 132.3
pre-tensions the output drive link and the input drive link in the
displacement axis B'' of the input drive link, when the output
drive link and the input drive link are coupled to one another.
[0327] The tolerance element has a tolerance element groove, which
is parallel to the groove in the input drive link 132, and through
which the guide element 130.2 passes, when the output drive element
and the input drive element are coupled.
[0328] In the embodiment in FIG. 50, the guide element has a
rotatably mounted roller element in the form of a ball race 130.2,
which is mounted in a sliding or rolling manner, for making contact
to the groove in the input drive element. A further rotatably
mounted roller element in the form of a ball race 130.1, mounted in
a sliding or rolling manner, is disposed axially adjacent thereto
for making contact with the tolerance element groove. In a
variation, instead of this, roller bearings without an outer race
can also be provided.
[0329] The guide element 130 is mounted in the output drive link
such that it is axially displaceable. As a result, it can be
axially inserted in, or removed from, respectively, the groove in
the input drive element and the tolerance element groove. It is
pre-tensioned against the grooves by means of an axial spring (not
shown), such that it enters these grooves automatically.
[0330] A connecting member 138 for axial displacement of guide
elements is connected to the frame 139 in a non-rotatable manner.
It has a chamfer in the direction of rotation, on which collar of
the guide element slides up. In this manner, by rotating the output
drive link in the direction indicated by a movement arrow A''' in
FIG. 50, via the connecting member 138, the guide element 130.2 can
be axially displaced (toward the left in FIG. 50) and thus taken
out of engagement with the grooves. In a variation not shown here,
the guide element can be axially displaced in opposing directions
by means of the connecting member, in rotational positions that are
spaced apart from one another, and thus, is not brought out of
engagement, but rather, is also brought into engagement with the
grooves. For this, the connecting member can have a further
chamfer, corresponding to the chamfer depicted in FIG. 50, which
runs in the opposite direction, and is spaced apart therefrom in
the direction of rotation, which pushes the collar of the guide
element axially into the groove when the output drive link is
rotated in the direction opposite A'''. In this case, a
pre-tensioning can be reduced or eliminated by an axial spring.
[0331] FIGS. 51A, 51B show, in a perspective view (FIG. 51A) and a
partial view (FIG. 51B), an interface of a surgical instrument
according to another embodiment of the present invention. This
corresponds substantially to the embodiment in FIG. 50, such that
reference is made to its description, and only the differences
shall be addressed below.
[0332] In the embodiment in FIGS. 51A-51B, the tolerance element is
designed as an integral part of the input drive link 132'', this
being in a hollow chamber 333.3, in which an integral leg 333.1 can
be inserted, which is supported on both sides (left, right in FIG.
51A).
[0333] In the partial section in FIG. 51B, the guide element 330
can be seen, which is guided by a roller bearing 330.2 in the
groove 333.2 of the input drive link 132''. In addition, the guide
element 330 is supported on the leg 333.1 of the integral tolerance
element via a further roller bearing 330.1, which pre-tensions the
guide element 330 and thus the output drive link, in which it is
mounted, and the input drive link 132'' in a displacement axis of
the input drive link (vertical in FIG. 51B).
[0334] FIG. 52 shows an interface, in a manner corresponding to
that in FIG. 51B, of a surgical instrument according to another
embodiment of the present invention, in a partial section. This
corresponds, substantially, to the embodiment in FIG. 50, such that
reference is made here to its description, and only the differences
shall be addressed below.
[0335] In the embodiment in FIG. 52, an inner race 230.3 of a
roller bearing without an outer race, having roller elements 130.1,
130.2, is disposed on a pin 130' of the guide element. The
right-hand roller element 130.2 in FIG. 52 functions thereby as a
tolerance element, which pre-tensions the guide element and thus
the output drive link against the input drive link 132' in a
displacement axis B.sup.IV of the input drive link, when the output
drive link and the input drive link are coupled to one another.
[0336] For this, the left roller elements 130.1, in FIG. 52, of the
guide element and the tolerance element 130.2 have chamfers in
opposing directions, which are complementary to the opposing
chamfers 233.1, 233.2 of the input drive element 132'. The
tolerance element 130.2 is guided in an axially displaceable manner
on the inner race 230.3 of the guide element, and pre-tensioned
against it by means of a spring element 230.4. By means of the
axial blocking of the tolerance element 130.2 by the chamfer, as a
function of the spring element, it pre-tensions the output drive
link and the input drive link 132' in the displacement axis
B.sup.IV.
[0337] As explained above, the left ball race 130.1 in FIG. 52,
which can be mounted in a sliding manner, or can slide,
respectively, radially outside on the input drive link 132' and/or
radially inside on the inner race 230.3, and the right tolerance
element 130.2 in FIG. 52, which can be mounted in a sliding manner,
or can slide, respectively, radially outside on the input drive
link 132' and/or radially inside on the inner race 230.3, represent
roller bodies as set forth in the present invention, and the roller
bodies 130.1, 130.2 and inner race 230.3 collectively thus form a
roller bearing without an outer race, as set forth in the present
invention. In addition, or alternatively, to a rotatability, or
sliding support, respectively, of the roller elements 130.1, 130.2
with respect to the input drive link 132' and/or the inner race
230.3, the inner race 230.3 can be non-rotatably mounted on the pin
130', or can be mounted in a sliding manner, or can slide,
thereon.
[0338] FIGS. 53A, 53B show an interface of a surgical instrument
according to another embodiment of the present invention, in
various positions. This corresponds substantially to the
embodiments described above, such that reference is made here to
their description, and only the differences shall be addressed
below.
[0339] In the embodiment in FIGS. 53A-53B, the O-shaped closed
groove 33'' in the input drive element 32'' is designed such that
it is asymmetric to the rotational axis of the output drive link
31'' (perpendicular to the image plane in FIG. 53), and the
displacement axis B'' of the input drive element 32'', and extends
substantially only as far as this rotational axis.
[0340] As a result, the output drive link 31'' and the input drive
link 32'' are clearly coupled to one another. If one imagines, on
the contrary, the groove 33'' extending (toward the left in FIG.
53) beyond the rotational axis, in particular symmetrical thereto,
it is clear that the guide element 30'' could then engage, in each
case in two rotational positions that are symmetrical to the
displacement axis B'', in the groove 33''. As a result of an
asymmetrical design of the groove 33', this can be prevented,
because, as a result, the guide element 30'' can engage in the
groove 33'' in exactly only one rotational position.
[0341] The series of figures, FIGS. 53A-53B again clearly
illustrates the functional concept of the interface according to
one embodiment of the invention. If the output drive element 31''
rotates in the direction indicated in FIGS. 53A-53B by the movement
arrow A'', the input drive link 32'' coupled thereto is displaced
in its thrust bearing (hatched in FIGS. 53A-53B) in its
displacement axis B''. In order to limit this displacement, in
particular when the output drive link is decoupled, two end stops
37.1, 37.2 are provided, which run on the front surfaces 32.1'' or
32.2'', respectively, of the input drive links.
[0342] The (full) stroke H of the input drive link is obtained,
when the output drive link is decoupled, by means of the spacing of
the end stops 37.1, 37.2, based on the spacings B of the front
surfaces 32.1'' or 32.2'' to a mid-line of the groove 33''. As a
result, in one embodiment of the present invention, for which the
depiction in FIGS. 53A-53B show only a possible embodiment, in
general, a spacing B of a front surface of the input drive link
from a mid-line of the groove in the input drive link is at least
equal to the full stroke plus half of the groove width, having the
reference symbols in FIGS. 53A-53B:
B.gtoreq.H+D/2
where [0343] B: spacing of a front surface of the input drive link
to a mid-line of the groove; [0344] H: entire stroke of the input
drive link; and [0345] D: groove width.
[0346] FIG. 54 shows an interface of a surgical instrument
according to another embodiment of the present invention. This
corresponds substantially to the embodiments explained above, such
that reference is made here to their descriptions, and only the
differences shall be addressed below.
[0347] In the embodiment in FIG. 54, a sterile barrier 35 is
disposed between the guide element 30 of the output drive link 31
of the input drive module 25, which engages in the groove 33 of the
input drive link 32 guided in the displacement axis B on the thrust
bearing 34 of the instrument shaft 20, in order to convert a
rotational movement A of the guide element 30 into a translational
displacement of the input drive link 32. This can also be provided
in the embodiments in FIGS. 47-53 explained above, without being
shown therein.
[0348] FIGS. 55A-55E show an interface of a surgical instrument
according to a further embodiment of the present invention, in a
view from above, in the direction of a displacement axis (FIGS.
55A-55C), or in a perspective view (FIGS. 55D-55E), wherein the
output drive link and the input drive link are not coupled to one
another (FIGS. 55A-55B) or are coupled to one another (FIG. 55C).
This corresponds substantially to the embodiments explained above,
in particular in accordance with FIG. 48, such that reference is
made here to the descriptions of the preceding embodiments, and
only the differences shall be addressed below.
[0349] In the embodiment in FIGS. 55A-55E, the input drive link 32'
is guided in a thrust bearing 34' with a great deal of play, in
particular, in a loose manner, such that it can be displaced on the
instrument shaft. In addition, it is displaceably guided in a
thrust bearing 340 having less play, in particular at least
substantially without play, on the actuator 31' of the input drive
module, when this input drive module is connected to the instrument
shaft (cf. FIG. 55C). In the connected state, the less precise
guidance on the instrument shaft is thus non-functional. As a
result, the more complex, precise guidance is shifted to the input
drive module, and thus the instrument shaft can be, or is, designed
in a simpler and/or less expensive manner, in particular such that
it can more readily be sterilized and/or is a disposable article.
As soon as the instrument shaft and the input drive module are
connected, the input drive module assumes the--more
precise--guidance of the input drive link.
LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS
In the FIGS. 1 to 33
[0350] 1 drive unit [0351] 2 instrument shaft [0352] 3 sterile
barrier [0353] 3.1 compensation element [0354] 3.2 corrugated
membrane (pre-tensioned cuff) [0355] 3.3 corrugated bellows
(pre-tensioned cuff) [0356] 3.4 elastomer sleeve (cuff) [0357] 3.5
translationally displaceable seal [0358] 3.6 sterile extension
[0359] 3.7 reinforcement [0360] 4 adapter (attachment element)
[0361] 10A, 10B output drive element (output drive assembly) [0362]
10C coupling means [0363] 10D guide rail [0364] 11 output drive
element base [0365] 20A, 20B input drive element (input drive
assembly) [0366] 20C coupling means [0367] 20D rotational thrust
bearing [0368] 20E gear toothing [0369] 21 input drive element base
[0370] 30 roller [0371] 40 coupling rod [0372] 50 spring [0373] 60
pull cable [0374] 100 pin [0375] 100.1 extension sleeve/tension
lever (elastic/separate element) [0376] 100.2 threaded
spindle/actuating stud (clamping means) [0377] 100.3 electric motor
[0378] 100.4 spindle nut [0379] 100.5 thrust bearing [0380] 100.6
locking balls [0381] 100.7 intermediate element (assembly) [0382]
100.8 cage sleeve [0383] 200 coupling socket with cut-out (input
drive element) [0384] 200.1 compression spring [0385] 1000 tilt
lever (output drive/input drive element) [0386] 2000 coupling part
(input drive/output drive element) [0387] 2000.1 thrust bearing
In the FIGS. 34 to 36
[0387] [0388] 2.1, 2.2 blade (end effector) [0389] 3 control means
[0390] 4 sterile barrier [0391] 5 spring [0392] 10 input drive
module [0393] 11, 12 tappet ((input drive module-side) drive train
(assembly)) [0394] 13 electric motor (input drive) [0395] 20
instrument shaft [0396] 21, 22 tappet ((instrument shaft-side)
drive train (assembly)) [0397] 31-34 strain metering strip
(metering means, metering assembly) [0398] F.sub.E1, F.sub.E2
clamping force [0399] F.sub.S1, F.sub.S2 instrument shaft tappet
force [0400] F.sub.1, F.sub.2 input drive module tappet force
[0401] q.sub.1 (rotational) degree of freedom [0402] S1 method step
[0403] U.sub.A bridge output voltage [0404] U.sub.E supply
voltage
In the FIGS. 37 to 46B
[0404] [0405] 30 drive unit [0406] 31 instrument shaft [0407] 32
(flexible) sterile barrier [0408] 34, 35 output drive tappet [0409]
37, 38 input drive tappet [0410] 40 robot [0411] 41 (sterile)
casing [0412] 42 interface [0413] 44; 44a, 44b electric motor
[0414] 45a-45d pair of tappets [0415] 45.1 output drive link
assembly [0416] 45.2 input drive link assembly [0417] 46; 46a, 46b
spring element (compression spring) [0418] 47; 47a, 47b input drive
module [0419] 47.1 housing for the input drive module [0420] 49
housing [0421] 53 instrument shaft housing [0422] 54 tube [0423] 55
pivot bearing [0424] 56a, 56b interface [0425] 57.1, 57.2, 57a-57d
cable pull drum [0426] 58 gearing wheel [0427] 59 rocker [0428] 60
(mechanical) stop [0429] 61, 167 latch [0430] 80 mounting element
[0431] 100, 103 electromagnet [0432] 101, 104 permanent magnet
[0433] 102 spacing element [0434] 105 spacing element [0435] 106
counter-stop [0436] 140 insertion opening [0437] 142, 143, 164
recess [0438] 150 cut-out [0439] 151, 153 projection [0440] 152,
160, 166 guide groove [0441] 161, 165 guide rib [0442] 170 lid
[0443] 180a, 180b section/converging surface [0444] 181a, 181b
moveable roller
In the FIGS. 47 to 55D
[0444] [0445] 20; 20'; 120 instrument shaft [0446] 21 end effector
[0447] 22 tube [0448] 23 instrument housing [0449] 24 interface
[0450] 25; 25'; 125 input drive module [0451] 30; 30'; 30''; 130;
330 guide element [0452] 31 output drive link [0453] 31'; 31''; 131
electric motor gearing unit (actuator) [0454] 32; 32'; 32''; 132;
132'; 132'' input drive link [0455] 32.1''; 32.2'' front surface
[0456] 33; 33'; 33'' groove [0457] 34; 34' thrust bearing [0458] 35
sterile barrier [0459] 36; 136 pull cable/push rod [0460] 37.1,
37.2 end stop [0461] 130.1 bearing race (roller body) [0462] 130.2
bearing race (tolerance element) [0463] 130' pin [0464] 132.3
tolerance element [0465] 132.4 spring element [0466] 138 connecting
member [0467] 139 frame [0468] 140 radial bearing [0469] 230.3
inner race [0470] 230.4 spring element [0471] 233.1, 233.2 chamfers
[0472] 330.1, 330.2 roller bearing [0473] 333.1 leg (integral
tolerance element) [0474] 333.2 groove [0475] 333.3 hollow chamber
[0476] 340 thrust bearing [0477] A; A'; A''; A''' rotational
movement [0478] B; B'; B''; B''; B.sup.IV displacement axis
* * * * *