AN ELECTROSTATIC HARMONIC MICROACTUATOR FOR ARTERIAL PLAQUE REMOVAL

The design process for an electrostatic actuator for arterial plaque r emoval is outlined in this work. Measurements, aimed at assessing the torque levels required to successfully remove arterial blockages which are typical of patients suffering from atherosclerosis, are described in detail. On the basis of these results, a minimally invasive surgic al system containing a microcutter powered by a electrostatically driv en harmonic micromotor has been proposed to alleviate this type of con dition. Force and torque predictions obtained from a finite-element mo del of the motor are presented, and shown to be compatible with the pr oposed application.