Abstract: A tool identification system has a tool holder allowing removable attachment thereto of any one of a plurality of tools; a sensor arrangement operable to sense features present on a tool attached to the tool holder; a processor operable to identify uniquely, from the sensed features, the type of the tool attached to the tool holder; and an insulation arrangement provided between the tool holder and the sensor arrangement, thereby electrically insulating the tool holder from the sensor arrangement.

Abstract: A tool identification system, comprising: a tool holder allowing removable attachment thereto of any one of a plurality of tools; a sensor arrangement operable to sense features present on a tool attached to the tool holder; a processor operable to identify uniquely, from the sensed features, the type of the tool attached to the tool holder; and an insulation arrangement provided between the tool holder and the sensor arrangement, thereby electrically insulating the tool holder from the sensor arrangement.

Abstract: In order to register a robot, the operative parts of the robot are placed in a first condition. An image acquiring arrangement carried by the robot is directed towards an item, and the image of that item is acquired and stored. Subsequently the component parts of the robot are moved so that the image acquiring arrangement can acquire a second different image of the item. The process is repeated to acquire data including a plurality of images and, for each image, data concerning the position of the component parts of the robot when the image was acquired.

Abstract: An orientation detector arrangement is adapted to detect the orientation of a first component relative to a second component, preferably during endoscopic surgery. The first component is a transmitter which may be worn on a surgeon's head. The transmitter is adapted to transmit a plurality of unique identifiable signals along mutually diverging beams. The second component is a detector which is adapted to distinguish between the individual signals transmitted by the transmitter. The detector is connected by a control circuit to an endoscopic camera which is, in turn, connected to provide an image on a display screen. The detector and the associated control circuit are able to control movement of the endoscopic camera in response to movement of the surgeon's head.

Abstract: In a robotic arrangement an elongate telescope(10) is provided adapted to be inserted into a patient(6). A drive arm(8) is connected to the telescope and means(7) are provided to rotate the drive arm about a substantially vertical axis. Drive means are provided associated with the drive arm(8) to adjust the angle of inclination of the cannula. This may comprise means to adjust the angle of inclination of the drive arm(8) itself.