OSCAR: An Ovipositor-Inspired Self-Propelling Capsule Robot for Colonoscopy

TL;DR

OSCAR is a novel ovipositor-inspired self-propelling capsule robot designed for colonoscopy, utilizing phase-shifted motion and friction anisotropy to achieve controlled, scalable, and efficient locomotion in the challenging colon environment.

Contribution

This work introduces a new ovipositor-inspired propulsion mechanism with phase-encoded friction control, validated through analytical modeling and ex-vivo experiments, advancing capsule endoscopy technology.

Findings

Achieved a mean traction force of 0.85 N in ex-vivo tests.

Demonstrated speed-independent thrust generation.

Attained an average locomotion speed of 3.08 mm/s.

Abstract

Self-propelling robotic capsules eliminate shaft looping of conventional colonoscopy, reducing patient discomfort. However, reliably moving within the slippery, viscoelastic environment of the colon remains a significant challenge. We present OSCAR, an ovipositor-inspired self-propelling capsule robot that translates the transport strategy of parasitic wasps into a propulsion mechanism for colonoscopy. OSCAR mechanically encodes the ovipositor-inspired motion pattern through a spring-loaded cam system that drives twelve circumferential sliders in a coordinated, phase-shifted sequence. By tuning the motion profile to maximize the retract phase relative to the advance phase, the capsule creates a controlled friction anisotropy at the interface that generates net forward thrust. We developed an analytical model incorporating a Kelvin-Voigt formulation to capture the viscoelastic stick--slip interactions between the sliders and the tissue, linking the asymmetry between advance and retract phase durations to mean thrust, and slider-reversal synchronization to thrust stability. Comprehensive force characterization experiments in ex-vivo porcine colon revealed a mean steady-state traction force of 0.85 N, closely matching the model. Furthermore, experiments confirmed that thrust generation is speed-independent and scales linearly with the phase asymmetry, in agreement with theoretical predictions, underscoring the capsule's predictable performance and scalability. In locomotion validation experiments, OSCAR demonstrated robust performance, achieving an average speed of 3.08 mm/s, a velocity sufficient to match the cecal intubation times of conventional colonoscopy. By coupling phase-encoded friction anisotropy with a predictive model, OSCAR delivers controllable thrust generation at low normal loads, enabling safer and more robust self-propelling locomotion for robotic capsule colonoscopy.