Laparoscopic surgery is increasing because it is less invasiveness and faster expectation of postoperative recovery than the traditional open surgery. Also, the benefits of shorter hospitalization, less pain, and better cosmetic results support the increasing use of the laparoscopic surgery. However, the current surgical instruments may cause internal interference with other instruments during the operation and blind spot may occur due to its mechanical structure. To solve these clinical problems, we have been developing a multi-joint manipulator using smart materials called magneto-rheological elastomers (MRE) applicable for laparoscopic-assisted surgery.
In this study, we examined mechanical properties of MRE-ring designed for this manipulator. From the results obtained, it was confirmed that the compression stiffness of the ring increased by increasing the applied magnetic field strength, suggesting availability of this material for controlling the stiffness of the joint of the manipulator.
