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Design and Control of a Novel Corkscrew Clawbot for Cell Manipulation
Subrahmanyam Cherukumilli1, Fatma Ceren Kirmizitas1,2, David Rivas1
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716 USA.
... International Conference on Manipulation Automation and Robotics at Small Scales (MARSS). International Conference on Manipulation Automation and Robotics at Small Scales
|June 15, 2026
Summary
We developed a novel magnetic corkscrew clawbot for precise single cell manipulation. This microrobot shows potential for advanced biomedical applications, including cellular patterning and targeted delivery.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Robotics
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Magnetic microrobots offer potential for precise biomedical applications due to their small size.
- Current microrobot designs have limitations in complex manipulation tasks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a novel magnetic corkscrew clawbot with enhanced manipulation capabilities.
- To demonstrate the precise actuation and cell handling abilities of the clawbot.
- To assess the viability of cells after manipulation.
Main Methods:
- Design and fabrication of a magnetic corkscrew microrobot with claw features.
- Implementation of closed-loop control for precise actuation in a fluidic environment.
- Utilizing trypan blue viability assay to assess Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cell viability.
Main Results:
- The magnetic corkscrew clawbot successfully performed single cell manipulation.
- Closed-loop control enabled precise actuation of the microrobot.
- Cell viability assays confirmed minimal impact on CHO cells post-manipulation.
Conclusions:
- The novel magnetic corkscrew clawbot is a promising tool for precise single cell manipulation.
- This technology has significant potential for applications in targeted drug delivery and cellular patterning.
- Further research can explore advanced applications in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.
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