A precision arm for miniature robots

Until now, microscopic robotic systems have had to make do without arms. Now researchers at ETH Zurich have developed an ultrasonically actuated glass needle that can be attached to a robotic arm. This lets them pump and mix minuscule amounts of liquid and trap particles.

The glass needle that captures the particles glows neon green.
Using a glass needle made to oscillate with the assistance of ultrasound, liquids can be manipulated and particles can be trapped. (Photograph: ETH Zurich)

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