Acoustically powered micro-clampbot for single-particle transportation.

Abstract

Acoustic microrobots offer an easy-to-operate approach for microobject manipulation in biomedical and nanotechnology applications. However, microobject transportation tasks require synergistic handling and movement, which poses a challenge for solely acoustically powered microrobots. These systems often require additional actuation mechanisms, such as magnetic control, for assistance. To address this challenge, we developed an acoustically powered micro-clampbot capable of clamping objects using claws actuated by acoustically induced secondary Bjerknes forces and moving via flagella that oscillate under acoustic input. The robot's actions are governed by distinct acoustic frequencies, enabling precise and independent control of clamping and locomotion. The micro-clampbot can pick a single particle from a cluster and navigate delicately through narrow channels, with narrow necks (~2.1 times the width of the micro-clampbot). This system facilitates the targeted transportation of microscale objects, including live cells, without causing damage. This versatile design highlights the potential of solely acoustically powered microrobots for advanced clinical therapies and microscale operations.