Helical micro-ribbons with a simple manufacturing method for micro-robotic applications

What is it about?

Inspired by flagellated microorganisms, helical tails are quite a common propulsion mechanism among artificial microrobots. Yet manufacturing micron-scale helices is often quite complicated. Here we provide a methodology which utilizes commonly used microfabrication facilities to manufacture helical ribbons. The ribbons are magnetized, so when they are placed in a rotating magnetic field, they rotate and propel. We demonstrate their swimming capability and characterize the manufacturing methodology. The characterization reveals further insight on self-scrolling approach used in manufacturing other micro-structures as well.

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Why is it important?

The simplicity and reliability of the manufacturing method is the main novelty of this study. In addition, there is extensive characterization on the method which offers further guidance and enables adoption. The proposed microswimmer design has a sandwiched structure with silicon-nitride on the outside. This material is known to be mostly biocompatible. Nickel, which can be toxic, is covered with nitride from the top and bottom, so our design ranks well in biocompatibility as well.