Magnetically steerable fiber robot for minimally invasive
This technology is a tiny, thread-like robot that can be steered through the body using an external magnet. The fiber has multiple functions built into a single strand: it can transmit light for imaging or therapy, carry electrical signals, and deliver fluids through a hollow channel — all while being magnetically guided to a target location. The magnetic responsiveness is tunable by changing the shape of the fiber's core and the concentration of magnetic particles embedded in its outer layer. Think of it as a minimally invasive tool that combines the functions of a camera, electrode probe, and drug delivery catheter in one steerable wire.
What you could build
A magnetically steerable multi-function catheter or endoscope fiber for surgical robotics platforms, sold to medical device companies and hospital systems performing minimally invasive neurosurgical, cardiac, or gastrointestinal procedures.
Who in Virginia should care
Medical device companies and academic medical centers in Northern Virginia and the Richmond corridor, as well as defense-adjacent robotics firms interested in minimally invasive inspection tools.
Readiness: Lab validated
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Xiaoting Jia, Yujing Zhang
- Filed
- Patent pending — filed October 4, 2024
- Status
- Application
- Publication number
- US20250345133A1
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.