Abstract: The present invention provides a deflectable needle system for use in performing diagnostic or therapeutic medical procedures. The needle assembly of the invention provides access to physiological sites which may be inaccessible by prior art needle systems due to an obstruction. The deflectable needle assembly includes a telescoping cannula, catheter and stylet. The catheter component of the assembly is curved at its distal end and axially rotatable within the lumen of the cannula providing simple maneuverability for accurate placement of the catheter at a chosen physiological site.

Abstract: An elastic robot body in which a number of actuators are integrated. If the actuators are triggered individually or in groups, they exercise a force on the material of the body, so that the latter changes its shape. Integrated sensors or switches measure the momentary position of the body. An imitation hand, comprising such a body, can move its sections in a human fashion.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a surgical manipulator for remotely grasping and manipulating things in response to movements of a human hand controlling the device. Movements of human fingers can be transmitted to mechanical finger-like devices through mechanical cables and linkages. In one embodiment the linkages include a mechanical movement reduction device to translate large hand movements to smaller distal movements. Various structures are provided at the proximal and distal ends for sensing and replicating the movements of a human hand.