Comprehensive modeling of corkscrew motion in micro-/nano-robots with general helical structures

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Fluid Dynamics

Background:

• Micro-/nano-robots (MNRs) show promise for minimally invasive targeted therapeutics.
• Clinical application of MNRs is hindered by challenges like overcoming blood flow.
• Existing dynamic models are limited to standard helical MNRs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a universal dynamic model for general micro-/nano-robots (MNRs) applicable beyond standard helical structures.
• To provide a foundational understanding of MNR behavior in physiological environments.
• To accelerate the design, optimization, and control of MNRs for therapeutic applications.

Main Methods:

• Development of a novel dynamic model for general MNRs.
• Extensive computational simulations to validate the model.
• Experimental validation of the model's accuracy and predictive capabilities.

Main Results:

• The proposed dynamic model accurately predicts the behavior of general MNRs.
• The model demonstrates validity across various MNR structures, not limited to helical designs.
• Simulations and experiments confirm the model's reliability.

Conclusions:

• The developed dynamic model is a crucial tool for advancing micro-/nano-robotics in medicine.
• This model facilitates the design and control of MNRs for effective targeted drug delivery.
• It provides essential fluid dynamic insights, paving the way for clinical translation of MNRs.