Measuring 0.95mm in diameter, the robot is 60% smaller than current endoscopic robots. Credit: Copyright © The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology.

The research team at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology’s (HKUST) School of Engineering has developed a multifunctional biomedical robot, which is significantly smaller than existing models.

Measuring 0.95mm in diameter, it is claimed to be the smallest multifunctional biomedical robot in the world.

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It is 60% smaller compared to existing endoscopic robots and integrates high-precision motion, imaging, and multifunctional operations such as drug delivery, laser ablation, and sampling in a single device.

It also claims a tenfold increase in obstacle identification distance and a substantial expansion of the imaging region.

Led by HKUST’s electronic and computer engineering (ECE) associate professor Shen Yajing, the team has crafted the robot with four major parts, including an optical fibre array, a microscale 3D-printed hollow skeleton, functionalised skin, and a custom tool for precise treatment delivery.

The hollow skeleton is produced using microscale 3D printing while the skin is created through a magnetic spray technique, reducing the robot’s size and enhancing its surgical manoeuvrability. A friction-reducing gel-like outer layer is also present in the robot.

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In vitro and ex-vivo tests within bronchial models and porcine lungs have demonstrated the robot’s ability to navigate tightly confined spaces, capture clear images, and perform treatments in challenging areas.

HKUST noted that small continuum robots similar to this one are increasingly used in medical procedures due to their ability to navigate narrow cavities and facilitate quick recovery with a low risk of infection.

Shen said: “Our study provides a significant solution for developing a surgical robot aimed at achieving early diagnosis and therapeutic goals in hard-to-reach areas of the body. With ongoing technological advancements, we believe that the fiberscope robot will make greater contributions to human health in the foreseeable future.”

The research team, which includes co-first authors Dr Li Gen and HKUST Research assistant professor Dr Yang Xiong, as well as PhD student Zhao Haoxiang, is now focusing on refining the robot’s features for practical application in medical settings.

Last July, HKUST researchers developed an AI-based microscopic imaging system.