Tiny origami robot unfolds in stomach

The robot contains of a layer of biodegradable material called Biolefin that shrinks when heated. This is placed between two structural layers of dried pig intestine similar to what is used in sausage casings. After being swallowed, the capsule that houses the robot is dissolved and the structure begins to expand, taking on a rectangular shape with accordion folds perpendicular to its long axis.

A magnet embedded in one of the forward folds allows the robot to be controlled externally. According to the researchers, the forces applied to the robot from outside the body are mainly rotational. A quick rotation of an external magnetic field will make it spin in place, but a slower rotation will cause the robot to pivot around one of its fixed feet. It’s hoped the tiny device could be used to remove foreign objects from the stomach, patch wounds, or deliver medication to a specific point in the digestive system.