BACKGROUND:  Current robotically supported surgical methods and complex laparoscopic procedures are limited in the scope of their application by the lack of haptic or tactile feedback transmitted to the operator of pneumatic systems employed in such processes. As a result, medical professionals continue to rely heavily on visual cues when manipulating surgical devices through patient tissues during the course of most surgeries. In addition, existing haptic feedback systems have been plagued by designs with limited adaptability, impractical system size and high manufacturing cost. This has therefore hindered the development of new advances in areas such as minimally invasive surgery (MIS) and telemedicine. Enhanced tactile interface systems would shorten the learning curve of many MIS procedures, improve the quality and safety of an array of surgical techniques and greatly expand the use of such systems to a variety of applications. Similarly, those industries requiring the need for simulations that enable the controller to feel the "environment" within the context of the system would benefit greatly from an improved tactile user interface. These industries include, but are not limited to, filmed entertainment, video-gaming and the military.

INNOVATION:  A pneumatic haptic feedback system has been designed to be modular, scalable and miniaturized. When the operator applies a force upon an object to be manipulated, a sensor transmits a signal that results in the application of proportional pressure upon the hands of the operator. In addition, a control system has been engineered to regulate the signal input in proportion to the applied force. The adaptability of this system allows for straightforward custom redesigns and lower system integration expenses. In addition, this system has been constructed for wireless applications.

POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS 

• May be applied to a variety of surgical settings including: robotic surgery, laparoscopic (MIS) procedures and telemedicine.
• Robotic applications that require custom designs for industrial or space-based use.
• For use in the construction of neuroprosthetics.
• For use in video gaming or virtual-reality simulation.

ADVANTAGES

• Scalable and adaptable for a range of desired applications.
• Increases the safety of robotic and remote controlled systems by improving the level of tactile feedback upon the operator.
• Can be easily combined with other robotic or prosthetic systems.
• Reduced system reconfiguration and integration costs as a result of the modular design.
• Reduced system complexity allows for shorter operator learning curves.
• Can be adapted to a wide range of sizes and forces.

DEVELOPMENT-TO-DATE:  The concept of this haptic interface system as described has been tested successfully. Various prototype actuator arrays have been manufactured. In addition, several investigators within research groups have participated in the validation of actuation performance. Finally, micro-fabrication using micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) technology has been effectively accomplished.

Reference: UCLA Case No. 2006-552

PCT Application: US07/066677