Fabrication of a novel handheld actuator for use in wireless capsule endoscope

In this paper, the authors propose applying a handheld actuator to actively control spiral-type wireless capsule endoscope (WCE). The actuator and WCE were fabricated and relevant tests were examined in porcine small intestine. The actuator consisted of step motor, driving circuit, micro controller unit (MCU), input and output circuits, and permanent magnet attached to step motor. Spiral-type WCE was composed of a commercial WCE, a cylindrical magnetic shell, and a spiral. MCU controlled the rotation of permanent magnet so as to produce rotational magnetic field by which the WCE was rotated and propelled. It was demonstrated that the WCE could move forward or backward freely under the control of the actuator. The actuator has great potential for active control of WCE in the future´s clinical application.