Abstract

This thesis explores techniques to utilize deployable, developable, and compliant mechanism design principles while investigating applications for minimally invasive surgery. This work also examines contemporary outreach strategies to broaden awareness and expand dissemination avenues of engineering research. The outcomes of this research aim to (i) equip product designers with machine design tools, (ii) deliver background and designs to mitigate surgical frustration and procedure complications associated with obstructed laparoscope lenses during laparoscopic surgery, and (iii) provide engineering researchers with new tools to extend the impact of their research. Part one of this work (Chapter 2) introduces methods for embedding linear-motion mechanisms on right-circular cylinders. Functional linkages are traditionally not geometrically constrained to a body and often dictate the final shape of the housing they reside. This work explores mapping straight-line and linear-motion mechanisms onto cylinders for practical design. Part two (Chapters 3-4) investigates impaired vision from smudged camera lenses during laparoscopic procedures (Chapter 3) and develops the foundation for a potential in-abdomen solution (Chapter 4). This device shows promise to improve patient outcomes and decrease operative costs by preserving unimpaired surgical site visualization, limiting workflow disruptions, preventing surgical complications, decreasing frustration, improving surgical precision, reducing operative time, and improving estimates of procedure durations which allow for more efficient operating room scheduling. Part three (Chapter 5) exhibits a case study on the impact of employing novel engineering outreach strategies to promote broader public dissemination of engineering research findings that complements traditional publication methods. This is done by adapting to contemporary media landscapes and engaging the maker community. Collaborating with engineering content creators and using design-sharing platforms allow broader audiences to access, learn, and replicate the work, thus accelerating innovation.

Degree

College and Department

Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering; Mechanical Engineering

Rights

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