Robotics Requirements for connectors in medical technology

Related Vendors

Pei-Genesis UK Ltd

FAULHABER Drive Systems

Wuxi InfiMotion Technology Co., Ltd.

Connectors play a crucial role in medical robots as they transmit power, signals, and data between various components. What are the requirements being asked today?

Isaac Noble is the European Product Manager at PEI-Genesis in Southampton / UK.

According to the International Federation of Robotics, the total number of service robots sold for professional use increased by 48 percent to 158,000 units worldwide in 2022. Medicine took third place behind logistics and hospitality for the most common applications.

Medical robots are robot systems designed for use in various medical applications, from surgery and rehabilitation to diagnosis and telemedicine. These robots assist medical professionals, increase the accuracy of medical procedures, improve patient outcomes, and provide solutions in medical care. Depending on their intended use, medical robots can have different shapes, functions, and levels of autonomy.

In 2000, the FDA approved the use of the Da-Vinci surgery system in general laparoscopic surgery, followed by approvals for other areas including radiation therapy and reconstructive surgery. With the development of generative AI and machine learning, autonomous robots could perform remote surgeries or predict the recurrence or progression of diseases in the future.

In order for medical robots to work accurately, connection technology is crucial. Connectors must comply with the following specific standards.

Mechanical Durability: Robotic systems are exposed to repetitive motions, repeated vibrations, and mechanical stresses. Therefore, the connectors used in such systems need to be robust enough to withstand uninterrupted use without errors. Redundant connectors and safeguard systems ensure continuity when issues occur, thus increasing the overall safety of medical robots.

Size and Weight Restrictions: Space and weight are often limited in medical applications, so connectors need to be compact and lightweight. Smaller and very robust connectors rely on sophisticated construction and enhanced functionality.

Connectors also make a significant contribution to the modular construction of robots, simplifying upgrades and maintenance. They facilitate the plug-and-play integration of new modules and promote flexibility and adaptability in the rapidly evolving field of medical robotics.

Electrical Power: Connectors need to provide constant electrical power, avoid energy losses, and generate minimal heat. To ensure uninterrupted data transmission, signal loss and crosstalk should be minimal. Good shielding and good EMC behavior are also important.

Sterilization: Connectors must withstand frequent sterilization processes, i.e., the materials used need to be resistant to sterilization techniques. Stainless steel is a popular choice due to its excellent corrosion resistance, durability, and resilience against high temperatures. Additionally, medical-grade plastics such as Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and Polyphenylsulfone (PPSU) are known for their resistance to chemicals, heat, and moisture.

As the development of medical robots continues, connectors will play an increasingly important role in ensuring precision, reliability, and safety in healthcare applications. Ongoing innovations in connector technology will undoubtedly contribute to the continuous growth and success of medical robotics, ultimately benefiting both medical professionals and patients. (kr)