Medical Applications

Micro-mechatronic systems power robotic surgical tools, endoscopes, implantable devices and precision analytical instrumentation

With their tiny size and high precision, M3 micro-mechatronic modules are ideal for use in medical devices, robotic surgical tools and precision analytical instrumentation. We can create non-magnetic motion systems for safe operation in MRI environments.

 

Medical applications include:

 

• Robotic surgical devices -  everything from robotic grippers and retractors to miniature mobile robots for minimally invasive surgery. 

 

• Endoscopic surgery. Small enough to fit inside the endoscope head, our mechatronics systems can focus a lens in an in vivo camera, manipulate a scraper, collect a sample, dispense a liquid, steer a beam. All without the need for a cable control system.

 

• Implantable devices. Our mechatronic systems allow motion and adjustment of implanted devices in situ. Applications include drug delivery, orthopedics (bone growth and spine straightening), audiology, neurology, pain management, sleep apnea treatment and more. The implanted devices can be non-magnetic and MRI-safe.

 

• Microfluidics. Create tiny microfluidic pumps and valves for wearable and implantable devices, pill endoscopy, and handheld diagnostic devices for POC testing (for faster results, improved time to treatment and cost containment). See also the fluid control page.

 

• Medical imaging. Use our modules for lens control and laser tuning in diagnostic imaging systems. Their small size and precision enable point of care diagnostics, real-time automated data collection and augmented vision systems.

 

Benefits

M3 micro mechatronic modules are:

• Small - for implantable and portable devices
• Precise - for extremely accurate positioning or dosing
• Quiet - for unobtrusive wearable medical devices
• Robust - for high reliability
• Efficient - battery-operated with lower power consumption than traditional micro-motors

 

SQUIGGLE motors generate no electromagnetic fields and can be made entirely from non-ferrous materials for use in or near MRI systems without affecting image quality or motor performance.

Solutions

M3 micro-mechatronics modules are complete closed-loop actuators with high precision and tiny footprints. Each module incorporates a SQUIGGLE micro motor and TRACKER position sensor, along with all drive electronics. You supply simple serial commands using a standard I2C or SPI interface. Modules have low power consumption and 3.3V input voltage for battery-powered operation. M3 modules are quickly customized to your medical application. For details see our M3 module design platform.

 

SQL Series SQUIGGLE motors are tiny, battery-driven motors (less than 3 x 3 x 6 mm) for wearable and implantable medical devices, endoscopes, tiny cameras and more. For details and specifications see our miniature OEM motors.

Custom solutions based on our expertise in piezoelectric motion systems give you what you need: higher force, higher precision, operation in vacuum or  cryogenic environments, non-ferrous versions for use in high-magnetic (MRI) environments. For examples please see our custom motion systems. 

 

Learn More

Presentation: Micro mechatronics for medical applications, December 2010. (View presentation)

 

Technical article: "Low Power Piezo Motion: Reduced-voltage piezo motor breakthrough creates options for medical devices" article in Design News, May 2010. (read the article on Design News online)

 

Technical article: "Piezo motor based medical devices" article in Medical Design Technology, April 2009. (read the article on MDT online)

 

Technical paper: "Autonomous Positioning System for Implantable Hearing Aids Using Piezo Motors"  (read the abstract)

 

Technical paper: "A Mobile Robot Driven by Miniature Onboard Motors for Cardiac Intervention." (read the abstract)

 

Technical paper: SQUIGGLE Motor Applications for Whole Body Small Animal MRI."   (read the paper)

 

Technology report: "Robotics Give Doctors A Helping Hand," Electronic Design, June 19, 2008 (go to article on Electronic Design)

 

Contact us for more information about using M3 modules in medical applications including endoscopy, imaging, precision analytical instrumentation and more.