Scientists have recently announced the successful creation of a microscopic robot, smaller than the diameter of a human hair, which is capable of swimming through liquid in a manner similar to a snake's movement.
How It Works
This robot is a flexible chain consisting of 3D-printed microscopic segments. Remarkably, it does not possess any internal motor, computer, or battery. Instead, it utilizes external electric fields to activate its swimming motion. These microscopic segments react to the electric fields, generating thrust to navigate through fluid environments.
Why It Matters
Micro-robot technology that operates without onboard power opens up immense potential in biomedicine, such as delivering drugs to precise locations within the body or performing medical interventions at the cellular level. Eliminating complex components like batteries and control circuits makes the robots more durable and easier to scale down using 3D printing technology.