Multi-channel conical microstructures: perspectives

Known tasks when operating units of a microrobot (sensors, actuators, waveguides, liquid or gas pipelines, etc.) include the need for them to be quickly and precisely sequentially positioned in relation to a relatively tiny object (target). Even using a precision workpiece stage this process can take a long time. The use of conical multi-channel microneedles is proposed as one partial solution. Each channel of such a needle can transport its “own” target -specific liquid to a target (gene, drug). Essentially, all channels of a needle converge in the sharp end of a cone. Positioning of this end enables simultaneous positioning of all its channels. This property of a multi-channel needle has induced the author to consider an opportunity of creating multi-channel cone devices on the basis of the technology of ultra-high aspect ratio fibrous composites. Such an approach enables development of multifunctional cone MEMS/NEMS as in this case each of the channels can be made as an independent embedded device, for example, micromotor, microsolenoid, fluidic storage for micro/nanorobots or living organisms, X-ray or thermal neutron optic guide, photonic crystal, etc. The minimal cross-section size of the channels on the sharp end of experimental cone samples made from lead glass is (250–300 nm), with a cone base of 6,000 nm. The author makes the attempt to estimate the prospects for MEMS/NEMS on basis of multi-channel conical microstructures of fibrous composites.