Resense GmbH
In robotic surgery, precision and safety are essential. Surgeons depend on sensor data to guide their movements, especially when direct tactile interaction with the patient is not possible. While visual feedback is crucial, the absence of haptic feedback remains a key limitation. Resense aims to close this gap by integrating miniature 6-axis force/torque (F/T) sensors into surgical instruments, enabling real-time tactile perception.
The Development Journey: From Prototype to Mass Production
Resense GmbH has developed the world’s smallest F/T sensors, with diameters starting at just 8.4 mm. To scale this innovation, Resense collaborates with WIKA, a global leader in industrial measurement technology. Together, they are advancing the integration and manufacturability of these sensors for medical use.
While selling first prototypes to industry customers, a key challenge in bringing these sensors to market is ensuring that they are both high-performance and cost-effective for widespread use in robotic surgery.
While selling first prototypes to industry customers, a key challenge remains: making the sensors both high-performance and cost-effective for widespread use. Resense’s patented manufacturing approach and WIKA’s automation expertise are instrumental in refining production. Automating key steps, such as handling and placing silicon chips in cleanroom environments, ensures the sensors meet stringent medical standards.
The Core of the Process: Automation in Cleanroom and Chip Handling
A significant aspect of development is the automation of cleanroom processes, where precision and contamination control are critical. Integrating F/T sensors involves delicate handling of silicon strain gauges, which must be placed with extreme accuracy. WIKA’s automated pick-and-place systems ensure each chip is positioned precisely, reducing human error and increasing reliability.
By automating these steps, Resense and WIKA improve manufacturing efficiency and ensure consistently high quality—ready for medical use.
Key Features of the Resense Force/Torque Sensors in Robotic Surgery
- Miniature Design: With diameters as small as 8.4 mm, the world’s smallest F/T sensors can be seamlessly integrated into the tips of surgical instruments, offering surgeons unmatched precision in force and torque measurement.
- Optimal Haptic Feedback: The sensors capture detailed force and torque data, allowing real-time haptic feedback that enables surgeons to “feel” the tissue they are working with, improving the overall surgical experience.
- Enhanced Safety: With haptic feedback, surgeons can execute delicate procedures with greater confidence, reducing the risk of unintentional damage to tissues.
The Road Ahead: Scaling the Sensors for Commercial Use
With support from WIKA and WITTENSTEIN, Resense is advancing toward production readiness. Prototypes are undergoing successful testing in academic and industrial settings. As the technology matures, Resense is committed to improving safety, precision, and tactile feedback in robotic surgery.
For more information, visit resense.io or contact Sabrina Hock, Business Development: [email protected]
Surgical Robotics Technology
