Register for free to
view the full innovation profile.
A multi‑limbed microstructure that can be controlled through different features of light ‑ wavelength and polarisation
About
Micro‑robotics are robots typically smaller than 1 mm and are used in industries and applications where their small dimensions are essential to operation.
Innovations in micro‑robotics has pushed the robots to ever smaller dimensions. However, as devices become smaller, fine control of such devices becomes increasingly more important. Currently, devices based on micromechanical systems, electric and electromechanical elements are bulky and do not offer the resolution required.
A promising alternative has been developed at the University of Salford ‑ micro‑robots powered by light.
A multi‑limbed microstructure that can be controlled through different features of light ‑ wavelength and polarisation has been developed.
The technology underpinning these microstructures is a carefully designed nanostructured subwavelength waveguide that is both flexible and has excellent light guiding properties, which can be mounted onto a fibre tip, connected to a laser.
By applying milliwatt levels of laser power, the absorbers incorporated into the waveguide convert the laser energy to heat, which induces motion in the cantilever‑type structure. Due to the flexibility of the materials, the cantilever is able to sweep across a considerable angular range_._ Multiplexing functionality is also possible by incorporating more than one waveguide into the fibre tip.
Further details
The potential of possibilities for this technology is huge, as essentially a modular, customisable, light actuated micro‑robot.
For example, if we take a multiphotonics approach: two separate laser beam signals could be fed into the proximal end of the fibre, which will guide the signals to the distal end. While the absorbing waveguide will still be used to heat up the structure with the first laser beam, the second waveguide will guide the second laser beam to the moving tip of the cantilever and emit it into space
It is also possible to design the microrobotic actuator to accommodate a third laser beam, providing another degree of freedom, and potential for imaging techniques such as Optical Coherance Tomography, or use of a high power / different wavelength laser for applications such as laser surgery.
Key Benefits
- Mass manufactured more affordably using wafer-scale microfabrication techniques, allowing it to be produced as a low cost, disposable and consumable device.
- Potential to be used in minimally invasive procedures, such as laser atherectomy, which provides patients with effective treatment options that avoid the risks and recovery time associated with traditional surgeries.
Applications
- All‑optical probe could potentially be used in a variety of medical applications, e.g. nanosurgery, laser ablation, endoscopy etc
- Open to other general robotics applications where fine control and optically driven devices are a necessity.