Magnetic Shaftless Propeller Millirobot with Multimodal Motion for Small-Scale Fluidic Manipulation

Abstract

Magnetic miniature robots have shown great potential in biomedical applications in recent years. However, a challenge remains in which it is difficult for magnetic miniature robots to achieve balanced capabilities for multimodal locomotion and fluidic manipulation in various environments. Here, we report a magnetic shaftless propeller-like millirobot (MSPM) that possesses the capabilities of rotating-based multimodal 3-dimensional motion and cargo transportation with untethered manipulation. The MSPM utilizes the propulsion and pumping capabilities of the propeller structure to achieve fluidic manipulation. The shaftless propeller structures are designed to achieve omnidirectional locomotion through rolling, propelling, and tumbling. Additionally, the shaftless 3-blade propeller is used to perform a pumping function to achieve controllable transportation of fluids and particles. We anticipate that the MSPM holds great potential as a minimally invasive device for thrombosis treatment and targeted medicine delivery.