Design and characterization of a novel hybrid actuator using shape memory alloy and DC motor for minimally invasive surgery applications

Recent developments in the field of robotics, smart materials, micro actuators and mechatronics have opened a new frontier for innovation and development in millimeter scale actuators for use in medical robotics. In this paper a novel design idea for developing a millimeter scale actuator is presented for actuating the end effector of a robot performing minimally invasive surgery (MIS). This actuator is designed by combining DC motor and shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator in series. The designed actuator is 5 mm in diameter and 40 mm in length and is used to actuate 10 mm long needle driver jaws, while generating a force of 15 N and a gripping force of 5.5 N.