To address the issues of insufficient acupoint localization accuracy and the difficulty of achieving complete functional integration in traditional acupuncture robots, a fully functional intelligent acupuncture robot system was developed. The system integrates four major modules: precise acupoint recognition and localization, an end-effector, a six-axis robotic arm, and a human-computer interaction interface. Human acupoint recognition and localization were achieved through image segmentation and deep learning. The modularly designed end-effector enables functions including lifting-thrusting, twirling, pressing, and the reproduction of expert acupuncture manipulation techniques. According to third-party testing, the acupoint localization and needling error of the acupuncture robot does not exceed 1 mm. Furthermore, animal experiments and clinical trials have validated the safety, functional effectiveness, and reliability of the acupuncture robot system.
GUO Jing, LONG Zhe, HUANG Jin-kang, LUO Kai-yao, LIU Hao-cheng, HE Zhao-shui, TAN Wen-jun, LIANG Qiao-kang, DONG Yu-ge, PAN Xing-fang, WEN Zhong-meng.
Intelligent Acupuncture Robotic System Based on Precise Acupoint Localization[J].
Science Technology and Engineering, 2026, 26(21): 8902-8913 DOI:10.12404/j.issn.1671-1815.2507798
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