Microrobots and microrobot motion measurement systems

Microrobot and Motion Tracking System for Microrobots

This technology tracks the position and rotational movement of an in-vivo microrobot by irradiating it with near-infrared/short-wave infrared light and detecting the specific wavelengths re-emitted by quantum dots placed on the robot's surface using an external detection device.

Conventional X-ray imaging poses risks of radiation exposure and hardware interference with drive systems, while magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is difficult to configure for real-time tracking. Furthermore, ultrasound and optical microscopy-based techniques suffer from low resolution, depth limitations, and bio-autofluorescence noise, making real-time precision measurement challenging.

By placing first and second quantum dots at different positions on the microrobot body, this technology determines the robot's rotational state based on the difference in intensity of the emitted light. Utilizing the near-infrared to short-wave infrared spectrum, which offers high biological tissue penetration, it enables a real-time monitoring system free from interference and radiation exposure. This improves the accuracy of measuring microrobot movement for applications in robotic gripping, precision measurement, and automated equipment, without the risks of hardware interference or radiation.

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Key Features:

• In-vivo mobile microrobot containing a first quantum dot
• A second quantum dot positioned differently from the first to absorb light emitted by the first quantum dot
• Quantum dots placed on a body equipped with a magnetic unit for movement via external electromagnetic fields
• Motion tracking system comprising a light source, a microrobot, and a detection unit for sensing re-emitted light

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This invention was developed with support from the Ministry of Science and ICT for the development of human-robot interaction technology and core components for active exercise rehabilitation.