Abstract: There is disclosed herein a multipurpose frame for use with a top mounted vehicle rack wherein the frame telescopingly attaches to the rack. As such, the frame is laterally extensible from the side of the vehicle and may be used to support a canopy, shower or serve as a clothes line or rain catch. A canopy may be attached at the outside ends of a plurality of extensions attached to the frame. The extensions may be removably attachable at the mounting portions of the frame of the present invention. In this fashion the canopy is sturdily supported by the extensions and can provide shade and protection from the elements to one who remains beneath it. Side walls may be attached to the frame to provide additional protection as well.

Abstract: A robotic system that moves a surgical instrument in response to the actuation of a control panel that can be operated by the surgeon. The robotic system has an end effector that is adapted to hold a surgical instrument such as an endoscope. The end effector is coupled to a robotic arm assembly which can move the endoscope relative to the patient. The system includes a computer which controls the movement of the robotic arm in response to input signals received from the control panel. The robotic system is mounted to a cart which can be wheeled to and from an operating table. The cart has a clamping mechanism which attaches the cart to the table. The system also contains a spring loaded mount plate that allows the robotic arm to be rotated and adjusted relative to the cart and the patient. Both the robotic arm and the control panel are encapsulated by protective bags that prevent the system from being contaminated.

Abstract: An interface that allows a surgeon to remotely control surgical devices and conditions of an operation room. The surgeon views a video image that is displayed by a monitor. The monitor may be coupled to a video device such as a laparoscopic camera that is attached to the end of an endoscope. Static graphic images and a dynamic graphic cursor are overlayed onto the video image. The graphic cursor has a pixel location on the monitor which corresponds to a spatial location of a pointer signal. The pointer signal is transmitted by a transmitter worn on the head of the surgeon. The pointer signal may be a laser which is directed to a screen that is located adjacent to a detection camera. The surgeon may move the graphic cursor relative to the video image by tilting his head and varying the spatial location of the pointer signal. The interface may have a controller which generates output signals in response to the movement of the pointer signal.

Abstract: A construction element that contains a shape memory element which changes shape in response to a change in the temperature of the memory element. The temperature is varied by a fluid which flows through channels adjacent to the shape memory element. The fluid typically flows through an inner channel of the memory element and an outer element formed by the element and an outer elastic pipe. A plurality of shape memory elements can be coupled together to create a robotic arm or an endoscopic instrument. The arm or endoscope can change shape by varying the temperature of the fluid. The fluid temperature and the corresponding shape of the arm/endoscope can be controlled by a computer.