Activated Metals for Thermal Actuation in the Context of Biomedical Applications

The advancement of biomedical robotics relies on innovative actuation schemes and the utilization of advanced materials. To date, the practical applications of heat-actuated systems still appear limited, and further research is needed to explore new heat generation methods for actuating robotic structures. However, heat-based actuation faces constraints due to its high power requirements, restricting its use outside clinical settings. To address this, we have developed an in vivo heating method using liquid metal-activated aluminum and water. We established a consistent activation method and characterized heat generation through thermal imaging and heat flux measurements. Demonstrating its potential, we used this method to thermally actuate a gastric resident device made from Nitinol, a shape-memory alloy. This novel <i>in situ </i>heat generation technique offers advantages and promising future directions for broader applications in biomedical technology.