In this post, we will share an idea of how we think mimicking the characteristics and features of a scorpion can help in the advancement of microsurgery
A scorpion is known to have two front pincers, named the pedipalps, as well as a long, curved tail called the stinger. When a scorpion prepares to sting an enemy, it first holds on to its prey with its pedipalps to keep it steady to then deliver a deadly dose of venom through its stinger.
Source: http://blogs.discovermagazine.com/notrocketscience/2011/12/23/why-do-scorpions-glow-in-the-dark-and-could-their-whole-bodies-be-one-big-eye/#.VYgKTPmqqko
Besides that, a scorpion can also glow in the dark. According to scientists, it is still unknown as to why scorpions are luminescent. Some have suggested that it is accidental, a by-product of a normal chemical reaction of body fluids.
Source: http://palaeo.gly.bris.ac.uk/palaeofiles/fossilgroups/arachnid/scranat.jpg/Slide1.jpg
From this basic anatomy knowledge of a scorpion, we have proposed an idea to mimic the action and reaction of a scorpion in building a microbot. This microbot could be very helpful in the field of microsurgery on patients. This microrobot could be deployed inside the patient’s body and perform the surgery without the need of having to implement invasive surgery. This requires no need of having to cut and open up a patient’s body, which saves time and cost. The microbot, with two front pedipalps and an extra hand, mimicking the scorpion’s stinger, could use this features to have a steady yet precise execution of surgical actions. The bio-luminescent feature of the scorpion can also be incorporated into the microbot. When it is deep within the patient’s body where it has poor visibility, this self-glowing feature of the microbot can help it manoeuvre in between tight spaces and crevices in the body.
We hope you had fun reading this short post!
We aim to cultivate the practice of biomimicry by promoting a creative and innovative mindset!
Share some of your original and inventive ideas on how a scorpion can further inspire and pioneer future technologies through biomimicry!
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