We are currently developing, in collaboration with Dr. Warren Grundfest at Cedars Sinai Hospital, a miniature "snake-like" robot for minimally invasive traversal of the human gastro-intestinal system. A television camera will allow the physician to visually inspect the intestinal lining. Additional diagnostic measurements, such as temperature, pressure, and acidity, can be made with a variety of on-board micro-sensors. In addition to diagnostic applications, the device may ultimately be capable assisting in therapeutic procedures as well
We also have recently initiated a collaboration with Dr. Michael Levy of Children's Hospital (Los Angeles) to develop a new generation of articulated endoscopes for brain surgery.
A picture of a medical robot prototype