2.2.3. Classic SUJ

2.2.3.1. Introduction

The dVRK Classic SUJ controllers are similar to the dVRK Classic controllers. They are build around a single QLA/FPGA stack (using a FPGA V1 or V2) and a special board to interface with the SUJ arms, the dSIB (da Vinci SUJ Interface Board). Each controller has 4 156-pin connectors Cannon ITT, one for each SUJ arm. A single dVRK SUJ controller is required per patient cart.

The dVRK SUJ controller supports all the features available on the da Vinci Classic patient cart, i.e.:

  • Read joint positions. The dVRK QLA has 4 analog to digital inputs, so it reads the potentiometer values sequentially using a multiplexer on the dSIB.

  • Release brakes. The dVRK controller uses the linear amps of the QLA dedicated to motor control to release the brakes.

  • Lift PSM3. The dVRK FPGA generates a PWM signal sent to the PWM power unit included on the dSIB.

  • Read the brake/clutch buttons on the SUJ-PSM1 and SUJ-PSM2. The brake buttons on the active arms themselves are handled by each active arm’s controller, not the SUJ controller (see Classic SUJ)

See also controller versions.

2.2.3.2. Exterior

Connectors

  • One AC power connector, with on/off switch

  • Four 156-pin connector ITT Cannon (for the MTM, PSM, or ECM)

  • Two FireWire connectors

  • One Ethernet connectors

  • One 4-pin and one 5-pin safety chain connector; see E-Stop

../../../_images/suj-controller-exterior.png

Classic SUJ controller

../../../_images/SUJ-Classic-controller-ITT-connectors.jpeg

Classic SUJ controller arm connections

LEDs

The LEDs are based on the Classic controllers; see dVRK Classic controllers

2.2.3.3. Internal layout

Internally, each controller box contains one FPGA/QLA board set, one dSIB (da Vinci SUJ Interface Board), LED boards and 2 power supplies:

  • 12V (50W) logic power supply that provides power to the FPGA board

  • Brake power supply connected to the QLA (48V) with built-in safety-relay.

../../../_images/suj-controller-interior.png

Classic SUJ controller internals

The dSIB has been designed to plug directly into the QLA board (SCSI and D-sub connectors). This reduces the amount of cabling inside the controller.

2.2.3.4. Components

Custom boards (PCBs)

Power supplies

  • All boxes contain a 12V (50W) logic power supply that provides power to the FPGA board.

  • Each box also contains one motor supply (48V) connected to the QLA:

Hardware modifications

Details of components and assembly

This information is stored in a separate GitHub repository: https://github.com/jhu-dvrk/dVRK-Classic-SUJ-Controller