The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has announced the development of a highly compact biomedical robot, measuring just 0.95 mm in diameter. This innovation marks a significant reduction in size compared to existing models, potentially enhancing its application in minimally invasive surgeries. The research team emphasizes the robot’s multifunctional capabilities, which integrate imaging, precise movement, and various treatment operations. This advancement could pave the way for more effective medical interventions in hard-to-reach areas of the human body.
Recent developments by HKUST build upon previous efforts to miniaturize medical robots, offering improved functionality and smaller dimensions. Earlier models struggled with balancing size and operational precision, often limiting their use in complex medical procedures. The latest iteration addresses these challenges by integrating advanced imaging and motion technologies, setting a new benchmark in the field of biomedical robotics.
How does the robot achieve its compact design?
“Small-scale continuum robots hold promise for interventional diagnosis and treatment, yet existing models often struggle with compactness, precise navigation, and visualized functional treatment all in one,”
explained Shen Yajing, an associate professor at HKUST. The robot’s design incorporates four key components: an optical fiber array for internal imaging, a custom tool for precise treatment delivery, a hollow skeleton fabricated using microscale 3D printing, and a functionalized skin created through a magnetic spray technique. These elements work in tandem to maintain a minimal profile while providing robust functionality.
What are the robot’s main functionalities?
The robot is equipped with capabilities that include high-precision motion, advanced imaging, and multifunctional operations such as sampling, drug delivery, and laser ablation. Its enhanced imaging performance and obstacle detection allow it to navigate narrow and challenging channels within the body, such as the lung’s end bronchi and oviducts. Additionally, the robot achieves motion precision of less than 30 μm and significantly extends obstacle detection distance, enabling it to perform complex tasks in confined spaces.
What are the future plans for this technology?
“We aim to further optimize the design and control of the fiberscopic robot, prioritizing safety and reliability during interventional surgery,”
stated Dr. Zhang Tieshan, a postdoctoral fellow at HKUST. The research team plans to refine the robot’s features for practical medical settings and conduct in vivo trials to demonstrate its clinical performance. These steps are intended to ensure the robot’s readiness for real-world application, potentially transforming surgical procedures and patient outcomes.
The development of this compact robot aligns with the broader trend of integrating robotics into medical treatments, offering enhanced precision and reduced recovery times for patients. By addressing the limitations of previous models, HKUST’s innovation stands to make significant contributions to the field of biomedical engineering and patient care. The ongoing advancements suggest a promising future for robotic-assisted medical interventions, particularly in areas requiring delicate and precise operations.
This advancement not only demonstrates the technical prowess of the HKUST research team but also highlights the potential for miniature robots to revolutionize medical treatments. As the technology progresses, it may lead to more widespread adoption of robotic systems in various medical disciplines, ultimately improving patient outcomes and expanding the capabilities of healthcare providers.
