AI-driven Self-Navigating Miniature Serpentine Robotic System for Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery, AiSNMS 2026/09/29

Introductions

Traditional endoscopic surgery depends on visual inspection and instrument handling, making it prone to disorientation. Prolonged radiation exposure also increases risks for doctors. Additionally, percutaneous procedures may cause bleeding, pneumothorax, and infections, leading to complications and longer recovery times. This technology enables doctors to precisely control instruments through the system panel.

Technical Advantages and Features

• Multi-Degree-of-Freedom Robotic Hose: Features an integrated bending section with a minimum outer diameter of 2.9 mm and an inner diameter of 1.2 mm, with omnidirectional bending up to 210°.
• AI Self-Navigation: Supports pre-rendered 3D modeling within 10 minutes, and uses AI air pocket recognition to guide the instrument through the oral cavity into the lungs, covering over 90% of the lung area.
• Detachable Module, Plug-and-Play: Enables quick disassembly in 30 seconds and setup in 1 minute, is compatible with multiple medical disciplines, and reduces sterilization procedures and the risk of secondary infection.

Industrial Applications and Business Opportunities

• Industry Applications
  • Medical device and equipment manufacturing industry, including minimally invasive surgical instruments, endoscopes, and medical imaging devices.
• Application Examples
  • This technology meets IACUC, IEC 60601, and ISO 10993 standards and has undergone preclinical validation with NTU Hospital Zhubei and ATIT, providing clinical feedback and optimizing treatment outcomes.
  • It has received prestigious recognition, including the 2024 R&D 100 Awards and ITRI’s Outstanding Research Award.