Magnetically Driven Soft Continuum Microrobot for Intravascular Operations in Microscale.

Area of Science:

• Robotics
• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Continuum robots offer promising medical applications but face miniaturization challenges.
• Developing microscale robots with active steering and locomotion is crucial for minimally invasive procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a microscale soft continuum microrobot with magnetic field actuation for steering and locomotion.
• To overcome adhesion and friction issues in microscale robotic systems.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a microrobot using NdFeB particles and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS).
• Incorporation of a surface hydrogel layer to mitigate adhesion and friction.
• Utilizing magnetic fields for remote control, steering, and actuation.

Main Results:

• The microrobot achieved a diameter as small as 200 micrometers.
• Demonstrated excellent control and steering capabilities within microfluidic channels.
• Successfully performed micromanipulation of microbeads, showcasing potential for intravascular tasks.

Conclusions:

• The developed microscale soft continuum microrobot offers a viable solution for miniaturization challenges in medical robotics.
• Its steering and locomotion capabilities show significant potential for precise intravascular manipulation.
• The hydrogel coating effectively addresses micro-object adhesion and friction issues.