Researchers at the University of Macau have developed a miniature, spider-inspired soft robot designed to navigate the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and deliver targeted therapies. The study, published in the International Journal of Extreme Manufacturing, outlines how the bio-inspired magnetic soft robot (BMSR) can move across complex internal surfaces, including inclined and upside-down structures, under the control of external magnetic fields.
The robot’s design takes inspiration from the golden wheel spider, known for its ability to traverse steep and uneven terrain. Constructed from magnetic materials, the robot is controlled by a dual robotic arm system that generates rotating magnetic fields and provides endoscopic imaging feedback. This system allows for precise movement and visualization during operation.
Current endoscopic procedures are limited by the rigidity of conventional instruments, which can cause discomfort and struggle to access certain areas of the digestive system. The research team sought to address these limitations by creating a soft, adaptable robot capable of maneuvering through mucus-covered surfaces, narrow turns, and varying height levels within the stomach, small intestine, and colon.
In controlled laboratory experiments using animal tissues, the robot demonstrated its ability to move effectively through different sections of the GI tract. The researchers plan to refine the robot’s design before progressing to in vivo testing. According to the study’s lead author, Professor Qingsong Xu, the technology could support the development of less invasive and more precise diagnostic and therapeutic methods for gastrointestinal conditions.
