In recent years, magnetic robots have attracted growing research interest due to their advantages such as rapid response, tether-free operation, and reconfigurability. Most efforts in the field have focused on the fabrication of magnetic robotic materials, structural design, derivation of constitutive models, and exploration of application scenarios.
A team of researchers in China conducted a review that specifically addresses the preparation of magnetic materials, structural design, actuation systems, and medical applications. The team aimed to provide early-career researchers with a clear understanding of the current landscape and a coherent perspective on medical applications of magnetic robots, while also serving as a reference for scholars in related fields.
The review is published in Magnetic Medicine.
Regarding material preparation, the authors elaborated on composites consisting of permanent magnetic particles embedded in flexible polymer matrices, including material composition and fabrication processes. Commonly used matrix materials include PDMS and silicone elastomers, while magnetic particles such as NdFeB and Fe₃O₄ are typically employed.
In terms of structural design, the review covered architectures across all dimensions as well as bio-inspired designs. One-dimensional structures primarily include continuum robots and designs capable of multi-degree-of-freedom motion. Two- and three-dimensional configurations offer greater design freedom, encompassing metamaterials based on kirigami and origami principles. Additionally, bio-inspired structures mimicking natural organisms are discussed.
For magnetic actuation systems, the review introduced permanent magnet arrays, Helmholtz coils, Maxwell coils, and electromagnetic systems, detailing their operational principles, approximate workspace ranges, and achievable magnetic field strengths. Medical applications span targeted drug delivery, minimally invasive surgery, disease diagnosis, and treatment, with specific examples provided in tumor targeting, Alzheimer's disease therapy, and endodontics. Emerging applications in assisted reproduction and microbiota regulation are also explored.
Despite the persistent challenges in power supply, real-time tracking, and material biocompatibility, the authors highlighted the potential of magnetic soft robots in reshaping future healthcare practices.
