Exploring Microrobotics in the Human Body

Front

What is PillBot?

Back

PillBot is a small, wireless robot that is remotely controlled and swims around in three dimensions in a water-filled human stomach.

Front

What technologies have allowed us to look inside the human body over the past 150 years?

Back

Technologies like X-rays and MRIs.

Front

What is the size of PillBot compared to a common object?

Back

PillBot is about the size of a small multivitamin capsule.

Front

What is the purpose of the camera on PillBot?

Back

The camera provides a live video feed.

Front

What is endoscopy?

Back

Endoscopy is a relatively invasive and expensive procedure where a long tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth into the stomach.

Front

What is the goal of using PillBot in medical procedures?

Back

To transform the experience of internal examinations and reduce the need for invasive procedures.

Front

How does the pilot control PillBot?

Back

The pilot can use a game controller, tablet, or smartphone to navigate PillBot.

Front

What potential improvements could enhance the experience of using PillBot?

Back

Using augmented reality headsets for 3D visualization and artificial intelligence for detection and characterization of abnormalities.

Front

What happens to PillBot after it completes its task?

Back

PillBot takes its natural course through and out of the body without the patient being aware.

Front

What other parts of the body could benefit from specialized robots like PillBot?

Back

The colon, heart, and brain.