An electrostatic harmonic microactuator for arterial plaque removal

The design process for an electrostatic actuator for arterial plaque removal 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 surgical system containing a microcutter powered by a electrostatically driven harmonic micromotor has been proposed to alleviate this type of condition. Force and torque predictions obtained from a finite-element model of the motor are presented, and shown to be compatible with the proposed application.