Scientists have developed a squishy robot that can be controlled by a magnetic field and can be used in a variety of environments.
Miniature robots that can be programmed to respond to external stimuli are projected to be immensely useful in a variety of fields, including medicine. Magnetic fields are a popular method of directing these robots, which may be used to distribute medications to various parts of the body, perform cell transplants, and carry out treatments with the least amount of disruption to the patient's environment. The magnetic field can be used to operate miniature robots in a safe, precise, and time-efficient manner.
There are two types of miniature robots that have been constructed so far: soft-bodied robots and fluid-based micro robots. Soft-bodied robots are smaller than fluid-based micro robots. As a result of their construction, soft-bodied robots may operate in a wide range of environments due to the combination of soft and flexible materials with hard magnetic particles. Their hull designs, on the other hand, limit the range of tasks they can perform.
Despite the fact that they are soft, their flexibility is limited. Fluid-based micro robots that respond to magnetic fields and are made of liquid metal or a variety of fluids (ferrofluids) are significantly more adaptable than traditional micro robots. Consequently, they are able to squeeze through even the tightest of gaps. One of their most significant disadvantages is that they are unable to function in all types of scenarios.
In order to function properly, robots made of oil-based ferrofluids must be placed on hydrophilic (water-loving) surfaces that are surrounded by water. When the robot encounters a hydrophobic (water-averse) environment, it disintegrates and disperses into the surrounding environment. Acidic or basic solutions are also essential for the proper operation of robots made of liquid metal. Unless they are detached from their current location, the robots will remain attached to the surface they are on.
Mengmeng Sun and colleagues presented a study in Advanced Functional Materials detailing the development of a new micro robot that combines the advantages of soft and fluid-based robots. The movements of the slime robot, which is composed of magnetic NdFeB particles, borax, and polyvinyl alcohol, may be controlled by applying a magnetic field to the device.
The robot has been built to be able to pass through 1.5 mm diameter channels and work on a variety of materials, including glass, metal, paper, silicon, and plastic, according to the researchers. In fact, one of the most important qualities of the magnetic slime robot is its ability to self-reconstruct after it has been damaged or destroyed without the need for external intervention.
According to the researchers' films, the slime robot is capable of stretching, spreading, curling, and grasping objects.
Reference: