Micro-robot for guidewire steering

Steerable Microrobot for Guidewires

This technology features a steering unit containing magnetic materials that respond to external magnetic fields, and a position-tracking unit based on quantum dots that absorb and re-emit short-wave infrared light capable of penetrating the body. These are integrated into the tip of a guidewire to enable non-invasive, real-time tracking and steering.

Conventional vascular intervention procedures rely on X-ray imaging to track guidewire positioning, which exposes both patients and medical staff to radiation and carries risks of side effects from contrast agents, such as shock or heart failure.

This technology incorporates a position-tracking unit at the guidewire tip, consisting of a matrix embedded with magnetic materials and micro/nanoparticles (including quantum dots). This allows for precise steering via external magnetic fields and real-time internal positioning via short-wave infrared illumination. Applicable to industrial robotics and automation systems, this technology eliminates the need for radiation, improves position tracking, removes the risks associated with contrast agents, and enables remote control of the guidewire through complex vascular structures.

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Key Features:

• Magnetic material located at the guidewire tip for position control and steering via external magnetic fields
• A connector that links the guidewire to the magnetic material and houses it internally
• A position-tracking unit integrated into the connector that absorbs and emits externally applied light
• The position-tracking unit consists of a matrix containing a mixture of quantum dots and magnetic micro/nanoparticles

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This invention was developed with support from the Ministry of Health and Welfare for the development of a microrobotic guidewire system for peripheral vascular intervention.