This research aims to develop origami-inspired microrobots for advanced biomedical applications, such as minimally invasive surgery, targeted drug delivery, and in-situ diagnostics. Drawing inspiration from the principles of origami and the shape memory alloy (SMA) microactuation effect, these microrobots are composed of interconnected, programmable microscale tiles capable of dynamically folding into complex three-dimensional shapes. This capability enables the creation of highly adaptive systems that respond to changing environmental conditions and perform precise tasks at the microscale with high precision and efficiency. The project focuses on pioneering methodologies for the design, fabrication, and control of these microrobots. SMA and advanced actuation strategies will be utilized to achieve high precision, speed, and stability, while ensuring biocompatibility for medical applications.
Institute of Microstructure Technology (IMT)
You will have the following tasks:Modelling, design and simulation of shape memory alloy (SMA) microrobotsDesign and simulation of a suitable SMA microrobots layout Rapid prototyping (clean room technology, e.g., optical lithography, 3D printing, laser technology)Development, characterization and control of demonstrator variantsInvestigation of the scaling of size and performanceAddressing miniaturization and scalability to enable real-world applications in medicineThe institute is equipped with an array of state-of-the-art facilities, including a 600 m² clean room, mechanical workshop, advanced rapid prototyping capabilities like lithography, 3D printing and laser cutting, construction and connection technology labs, as well as various metrology laboratories.
Contract duration
3 years
Application up to
30.04.2025
Contact person in line-management
For further information please contact Dr. Jingyuan Xu, email: jingyuan.xu@kit.edu
