Medical Robotics and Operation Room Technology module (BE52002)

In this module you will be introduced to the technologies used in modern surgical environments. Our module has a strong focus on medical robotics and how these are integrated into the operating room.

You will explore how surgical procedures have evolved through robotics and automation. You will also explore how engineers contribute to robotic systems in clinical settings. This will cover their development, evaluation, and safe use.

You'll learn about common operating room (OR) technologies. These include surgical instruments, data tracking tools, and imaging systems.

The module covers:

• how medical robotic systems are designed and used
• the challenges of integrating sensors and control systems
• how safety and performance are evaluated

You will also consider the ethical and regulatory context in which these technologies are developed and used.

Throughout the module, you'll work in teams on hands-on activities. These will include robot programming and system design. There is also a group competition to test your designs.

Seminars, workshops, and clinical site visits will help you connect theory with real-world surgical practice. This will allow you to gain insight into the engineering behind clinical innovation.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• explore core clinical procedures and technologies used in operating rooms
• examine medical robotic systems, their components, and how they are applied in surgery
• take part in hands-on labs, robotic design workshops, and simulation activities
• use tools such as Arduino and SolidWorks to design and control robotic systems
• learn how engineers collaborate with clinicians to improve surgical outcomes
• consider real-world risks, ethical questions, and regulatory frameworks for medical robotics

By the end of the module, you will be able to:

• apply scientific principles to explain how surgical and robotic systems function in clinical settings
• describe and evaluate the components and control systems of surgical robotics
• investigate and analyse emerging technologies for use in operating rooms
• apply ethical awareness and regulatory standards to the evaluation of surgical technologies
• communicate technical information clearly and work effectively as part of a team

Assignments / assessment

• tests (50%)
  • Two in-class tests. These will assess your understanding of clinical environments, core surgical procedures, and the role of engineering in medical robotics
• coursework (50%)
  • This includes:
    • a team-based robot competition
    • an accompanying technical report
    • a group presentation. This will allow you to explain and defend your design decisions

Teaching methods / timetable

• lectures
  • These introduce key ideas about surgical workflows, medical devices, and the role of robotics in clinical care
• workshops
  • These provide guided activities where you experiment with robotic systems and control tools
• project work
  • These let you design, develop, and test a robotic solution as part of a small team
• seminars
  • These focus on ethics, regulatory standards, and real-world case studies from operating theatres
• guest sessions
  • These are an opportunity to connect with clinical engineers and NHS staff who share practical insights
• guided independent study
  • This will help you prepare for tests, build your technical skills, and complete the group report