Laparoscopic surgery trainer
Rakshith was the project manager of an eight-person team that worked with an NHS Trust for eight months. The team designed and programmed a compliant robotic mechanism that gives surgeons realistic force feedback during practice.
What
A new type of laparoscopic surgery trainer, developed in eight months with an NHS Trust. A compliant robotic mechanism gives realistic force feedback at the tool. Connected modules simulate more than one incision, off-the-shelf parts keep the cost low, and a VR system recreates the pressure of a real operating theatre.
How
Rakshith divided the team into sub-groups with clear responsibilities and held regular gateway reviews with the NHS Trust. The control system was the most difficult part, because the mechanism must stay compliant and still control the tool accurately.
A PID controller and servo angle control closed the loop. The team added a soft tool point where the servo torque exceeded the displacement threshold. Rakshith's individual technical contribution was the CAD model.
Results
At the end of the eight months, the team delivered a working demonstrator. It is modular, low in cost and integrated with VR. It addresses two problems in laparoscopic training: the shortage of trained instructors and the lack of a standard qualification route.