Test of Tracing Performance with an Active Handheld Micromanipulator

This paper demonstrates tremor compensation for human subjects using an active handheld micromanipulator. This instrument uses optical and inertial sensing to detect its own motion, estimates tremor using linear filtering, and a flexure-based manipulator to actuate the tip. Compensation results while tracing a line with the tool are presented for both novice users and a trained surgeon. Learning effects from repetition of the trials over a ten-day period are described.