Periodic Reporting for period 1 - IMIPORU (Intelligent MIcrorobot POweRed by Ultrasound)
Periodo di rendicontazione: 2022-01-01 al 2023-12-31
Over the past decade, microrobots have showcased immense potential, from precise drug delivery to minimally invasive surgeries. However, existing models lack self-navigation abilities, limiting their practical application. The aim is to engineer a microrobot energized by ultrasound capable of independent movement within complex environments, a feat unattained until now.
One of the challenges lies in miniaturization; traditional robotic components cannot be shrunk to microscale dimensions. Therefore, inspiration is drawn from microorganisms, replicating their design principles to instill autonomy in these micromachines. An additional challenge is propulsion on the microscale. Ultrasound emerges as a promising avenue for propulsion and motion control due to its non-destructive and tissue-penetrating capabilities. By utilizing acoustic streaming (mean flow of fluid), generated by vibrating microstructures or gas bubbles, and additional nonlinear acoustic phenomena we aim to achieve precise, efficient microrobot propulsion.
The microrobot's ultimate goal is Taxis behavior - the ability to respond to external cues like chemicals or temperature gradients. This opens doors for targeted medical applications or environmental monitoring. Our approach spans diverse disciplines - robotics, additive manufacturing, fluid dynamics, and materials science. With a focus on predictive modeling, experimental validation, and manufacturing techniques, this research aims to revolutionize microrobotics, appealing to both academia and industry. This venture strives for excellence in microrobotics, aiming to create a pioneering autonomous microrobot driven by ultrasound, which could revolutionize healthcare and environmental monitoring through its advanced navigation abilities and responsiveness to external stimuli.
One of the challenges lies in miniaturization; traditional robotic components cannot be shrunk to microscale dimensions. Therefore, inspiration is drawn from microorganisms, replicating their design principles to instill autonomy in these micromachines. An additional challenge is propulsion on the microscale. Ultrasound emerges as a promising avenue for propulsion and motion control due to its non-destructive and tissue-penetrating capabilities. By utilizing acoustic streaming (mean flow of fluid), generated by vibrating microstructures or gas bubbles, and additional nonlinear acoustic phenomena we aim to achieve precise, efficient microrobot propulsion.
The microrobot's ultimate goal is Taxis behavior - the ability to respond to external cues like chemicals or temperature gradients. This opens doors for targeted medical applications or environmental monitoring. Our approach spans diverse disciplines - robotics, additive manufacturing, fluid dynamics, and materials science. With a focus on predictive modeling, experimental validation, and manufacturing techniques, this research aims to revolutionize microrobotics, appealing to both academia and industry. This venture strives for excellence in microrobotics, aiming to create a pioneering autonomous microrobot driven by ultrasound, which could revolutionize healthcare and environmental monitoring through its advanced navigation abilities and responsiveness to external stimuli.
During the project, we embarked on a multifaceted exploration centered on microscale encapsulated bubbles and their potential applications for acoustically actuated microrobots. We had four objectives that we were able to achieve, as detailed hereafter.
Understanding Fluid-Structure Interaction on the Microscale
Our initial goal was ambitious: predict the thrust generated by encapsulated microbubbles. We combined three approaches: developing an analytical model, validating it through experiments and numerical simulations, and finally disseminating our findings. These efforts resulted in publications in leading journals and conference presentations. We also shared a MATLAB code to benefit the wider community.
Crafting Multi-Material Microscale Machines
Creating complex microscale machines requires bondable materials with unique properties. We explored different materials, and various printing parameters, and evaluated the different material compatibility, culminating in a refined fabrication protocol. We presented our progress at international conferences and have publications under review, highlighting our contribution to this field.
Predictive Design for acoustically actuated Micro-Robots
Initially, we aimed to induce shape modification through structural instabilities such as buckling. However, challenges led us to pivot towards exploring different nonlinear acoustic forces, like secondary acoustic radiation forces. These act between oscillating microbubbles, and can be controlled through bubble geometry and excitation signals. Collaborative experiments and extensive modeling led us to develop a predictive tool for specific micro-machine designs, a significant leap in our understanding of these systems.
Autonomous Response via Acoustic Forces
Though our initial goal of inducing buckling wasn't realized, our exploration of nonlinear acoustic forces bore fruit. We designed controlled, acoustically actuated micro-machines, each carefully characterized and modeled. These machines can serve as building blocks comprising complex acoustically actuated and 3D-nanoprinted robots. Our work culminated in presentations at international conferences and a journal paper, marking a notable achievement in this domain.
This project encompassed diverse explorations and adaptations, ultimately advancing our understanding of micro-machines influenced by acoustic forces, showcased through our publications and presentations. The project’s outcomes have reached far and wide, connecting with both academic and industry circles while engaging the broader public.
Dissemination to Academic and Industry audiences
The core findings from our research found their way to academic communities via esteemed peer-reviewed journals and key international conferences. Beyond academia, we interacted with industry experts during four pivotal events: two CMi days in 2022 and 2023 in Lausanne, and two Swiss Robotics Days in 2022 and 2023 in Lausanne and Zurich.
Outreach to Diverse Audiences
Sharing our project wasn’t confined to academic circles. We leveraged social media platforms and the MICROBS laboratory website to disseminate project products. Additionally, we opened our doors to the general public through key events. At the Swiss Robotics Day in 2022 in Lausanne, we set up a booth and interacted with visitors. Similarly, during the EPFL open-door event in 2023, we showcased our research to the public across two informative days. We also hosted visits from high school students from Lausanne, broadening our reach to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.
Understanding Fluid-Structure Interaction on the Microscale
Our initial goal was ambitious: predict the thrust generated by encapsulated microbubbles. We combined three approaches: developing an analytical model, validating it through experiments and numerical simulations, and finally disseminating our findings. These efforts resulted in publications in leading journals and conference presentations. We also shared a MATLAB code to benefit the wider community.
Crafting Multi-Material Microscale Machines
Creating complex microscale machines requires bondable materials with unique properties. We explored different materials, and various printing parameters, and evaluated the different material compatibility, culminating in a refined fabrication protocol. We presented our progress at international conferences and have publications under review, highlighting our contribution to this field.
Predictive Design for acoustically actuated Micro-Robots
Initially, we aimed to induce shape modification through structural instabilities such as buckling. However, challenges led us to pivot towards exploring different nonlinear acoustic forces, like secondary acoustic radiation forces. These act between oscillating microbubbles, and can be controlled through bubble geometry and excitation signals. Collaborative experiments and extensive modeling led us to develop a predictive tool for specific micro-machine designs, a significant leap in our understanding of these systems.
Autonomous Response via Acoustic Forces
Though our initial goal of inducing buckling wasn't realized, our exploration of nonlinear acoustic forces bore fruit. We designed controlled, acoustically actuated micro-machines, each carefully characterized and modeled. These machines can serve as building blocks comprising complex acoustically actuated and 3D-nanoprinted robots. Our work culminated in presentations at international conferences and a journal paper, marking a notable achievement in this domain.
This project encompassed diverse explorations and adaptations, ultimately advancing our understanding of micro-machines influenced by acoustic forces, showcased through our publications and presentations. The project’s outcomes have reached far and wide, connecting with both academic and industry circles while engaging the broader public.
Dissemination to Academic and Industry audiences
The core findings from our research found their way to academic communities via esteemed peer-reviewed journals and key international conferences. Beyond academia, we interacted with industry experts during four pivotal events: two CMi days in 2022 and 2023 in Lausanne, and two Swiss Robotics Days in 2022 and 2023 in Lausanne and Zurich.
Outreach to Diverse Audiences
Sharing our project wasn’t confined to academic circles. We leveraged social media platforms and the MICROBS laboratory website to disseminate project products. Additionally, we opened our doors to the general public through key events. At the Swiss Robotics Day in 2022 in Lausanne, we set up a booth and interacted with visitors. Similarly, during the EPFL open-door event in 2023, we showcased our research to the public across two informative days. We also hosted visits from high school students from Lausanne, broadening our reach to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.
The IMIPORU project focused on developing an intelligent microrobot powered by ultrasound. Key advancements include devising complex micromachines that utilize nonlinear acoustic forces for controlled movement, surpassing traditional methods. This exploration laid the groundwork for novel actuation approaches, paving the way for advancements complementary to magnetic and light fields.
The project aimed to pioneer microscale compound machines made of multiple soft materials. While the original plan to create structures that buckle wasn't fully realized, the project pivoted toward designing complex micromachines controlled by acoustic stimuli. Predictive tools were developed to estimate forces and deformation, showcasing potential environmental responsiveness.
These developments hold promise beyond academia, impacting various sectors. The project's findings facilitate collaborations between research groups and renowned scholars. Moreover, the refined 3D-nanoprinting protocol serves as a foundational step for printing protocols with an array of materials, opening doors for diverse applications. The project's outreach efforts at events and through social media ensure wider public exposure and engagement.
The advancements made in microrobotics and materials science have the potential to revolutionize various industries, from healthcare to technology. This technology's adaptability and precision could transform medical applications and manufacturing processes, fostering innovation and economic growth. Moreover, the project's open engagement with the public and high school students fosters curiosity and interest in science and technology, potentially inspiring the next generation of innovators.
In summary, while some initial objectives evolved, the project's outcomes present promising prospects for transformative advancements in microrobotics, materials science, and their societal applications. The project's dissemination strategies ensure the wider reach and understanding of these groundbreaking developments.
The project aimed to pioneer microscale compound machines made of multiple soft materials. While the original plan to create structures that buckle wasn't fully realized, the project pivoted toward designing complex micromachines controlled by acoustic stimuli. Predictive tools were developed to estimate forces and deformation, showcasing potential environmental responsiveness.
These developments hold promise beyond academia, impacting various sectors. The project's findings facilitate collaborations between research groups and renowned scholars. Moreover, the refined 3D-nanoprinting protocol serves as a foundational step for printing protocols with an array of materials, opening doors for diverse applications. The project's outreach efforts at events and through social media ensure wider public exposure and engagement.
The advancements made in microrobotics and materials science have the potential to revolutionize various industries, from healthcare to technology. This technology's adaptability and precision could transform medical applications and manufacturing processes, fostering innovation and economic growth. Moreover, the project's open engagement with the public and high school students fosters curiosity and interest in science and technology, potentially inspiring the next generation of innovators.
In summary, while some initial objectives evolved, the project's outcomes present promising prospects for transformative advancements in microrobotics, materials science, and their societal applications. The project's dissemination strategies ensure the wider reach and understanding of these groundbreaking developments.