Hybrid Parallel‐Serial Tool Exchange Robot for Ophthalmic Precision Surgery: Mechanical Design

BACKGROUND: Robot-assisted ophthalmic surgery requires precise manipulation about a remote centre of motion (RCM). Conventional systems often employ mechanically fixed RCMs, limiting alignment flexibility, motion compensation, and tool exchange capability. This work presents HYPER-OPS, a hybrid parallel-serial ophthalmic robot featuring a software-controlled RCM and tool exchange capability. METHODS: A compact six-degree-of-freedom manipulator was developed using a dual-layer five-bar linkage. The system features software-controlled RCM functionality and passive magnetic tool exchange. Kinematic, workspace and structural analyses were performed, followed by experimental validation. RESULTS: The robot achieved the workspace required for ophthalmic procedures while enabling configurable RCM placement. Finite element analysis predicted a maximum deformation of 0.045 mm and a first natural frequency of 56 Hz. Experiments demonstrated RCM position errors below 0.2 mm and tool exchange repeatability of 0.39 mm. CONCLUSION: HYPER-OPS provides a compact platform for ophthalmic surgery with improved flexibility for alignment, motion compensation and workflow automation.