The MIM Lab develops robotic and mechatronics surgical systems for a variety of procedures.

Head of Group

Prof Ferdinando Rodriguez y Baena

B415C Bessemer Building
South Kensington Campus

+44 (0)20 7594 7046

⇒ X: @fmryb

 

What we do

The Mechatronics in Medicine Laboratory develops robotic and mechatronics surgical systems for a variety of procedures including neuro, cardiovascular, orthopaedic surgeries, and colonoscopies. Examples include bio-inspired catheters that can navigate along complex paths within the brain (such as EDEN2020), soft robots to explore endoluminal anatomies (such as the colon), and virtual reality solutions to support surgeons during knee replacement surgeries.

Why is it important

The integration of mechatronics into medicine addresses critical challenges in modern healthcare by enhancing the precision, safety, and efficiency of surgical procedures. Traditional surgeries often involve significant risks and extended recovery times. By developing robotic systems that offer greater accuracy and control, we aim to minimise these risks and reduce invasiveness. Our research contributes to the advancement of minimally invasive techniques, which are essential for improving patient outcomes and optimising healthcare resources. Furthermore, our work supports the training of the next generation of surgeons, equipping them with cutting-edge tools and methodologies that reflect the evolving landscape of medical technology.

How can it benefit patients

Patients stand to gain significantly from the innovations developed at the Mechatronics in Medicine Laboratory. Our robotic systems are designed to perform surgeries with enhanced precision, leading to fewer complications and faster recovery times. Minimally invasive procedures facilitated by our technologies result in less postoperative pain and reduced scarring, improving the overall patient experience. Additionally, the increased accuracy of our systems can lead to better surgical outcomes, such as more complete tumour removals or more precise joint replacements, thereby improving long-term health prospects. By pushing the boundaries of medical robotics, we strive to make advanced surgical care more accessible and effective for patients worldwide.

Meet the team

Citation

BibTex format

@inproceedings{Garriga:2018:10.1109/ROBIO.2017.8324517,
author = {Garriga, Casanovas A and ’Athif, Mohd Faudzi A and Hiramitsu, T and Rodriguez, y Baena F and Suzumori, K},
doi = {10.1109/ROBIO.2017.8324517},
publisher = {IEEE},
title = {Multifilament pneumatic artificial muscles to mimic the human neck},
url = {http://dx.doi.org/10.1109/ROBIO.2017.8324517},
year = {2018}
}

RIS format (EndNote, RefMan)

TY  - CPAPER
AB - Pneumatic Artificial Muscles (PAMs) are actuators that resemble human muscles, and offer an attractive performance in various aspects including robustness, simplicity, high specific power and high force for a given volume. These characteristics render them good candidates for use in humanoid robots. The use of traditional PAMs to closely mimic human structures, however, is difficult due to their relatively large size and relatively fixed designs. The recent development of multifilament PAMs enables the realization of humanoid robots that more closely mimic the human anatomy. In this paper, the application of multifilament PAMs to mimic the human neck is presented. First, the main structures of the human neck anatomy in terms of bones, ligaments and muscles are identified and detailed. The design to mimic each of these structures is subsequently described, together with the most relevant parts of the manufacturing process. The integrated neck is then presented, and the method to actuate it is outlined. The results of motion of the artificial neck when actuating different groups of muscles that mimic those in the human anatomy are reported, confirming a motion that is equivalent to that of the human neck. The results also indicate a range of motion of the robot neck somewhat lower than that of its human counterpart, and the reasons for this are discussed. Finally, future directions for improved motion range, stability, durability and efficiency are outlined.
AU - Garriga,Casanovas A
AU - ’Athif,Mohd Faudzi A
AU - Hiramitsu,T
AU - Rodriguez,y Baena F
AU - Suzumori,K
DO - 10.1109/ROBIO.2017.8324517
PB - IEEE
PY - 2018///
TI - Multifilament pneumatic artificial muscles to mimic the human neck
UR - http://dx.doi.org/10.1109/ROBIO.2017.8324517
ER -

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The Hamlyn Centre
Bessemer Building
South Kensington Campus
Imperial College
London, SW7 2AZ
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