Charles originated the concept of a telerobotic system as a tool to assist the microsurgeon. Many new innovations have been developed under the RAMS task. This system will put surgeons on the same playing field. The system will allow a whole subset of people who do not have the physical dexterity to perform surgery to stay in the game.
RAMS can improve surgical techniques to allow faster and safer procedures.
JPL and MicroDexterity Systems are developing a robotic microsurgery device with important implications for such delicate surgeries as eye and brain. The device uses computer-compensated motion control to dramatically reduce the effects of operator muscle tremor. Charles said RAMS augments surgical dexterity the same way a microscope improves a surgeon's vision during an operating room procedure. The new system has features that enhance a surgeon's manual positioning and tracking. RAMS will help a surgeon overcome involuntary jerks and hand tremors, which can limit a doctor's fine-motion skills.