NSH Columnist Raul about Necrobotics on WAICF2024 Dais
“Necrobotics, a novel technology, employs deceased spiders as AI-managed robotic grippers, specifically designed for intricate procedures,” Dr. Raul Villamarin Rodriguez, a fervent advocate and a columnist for NSH, speaks about this innovative technology, on which he spoke about at the World Artificial Intelligence Festival in Cannes (WAICF 2024).
“Would you entrust a spider to operate on you if you were diagnosed with a brain tumor?” This provocative question sets the stage for the conference at WAICF, presented by Raul Villamarin Rodriguez. As a cognitive technologist and the Vice President of Woxsen University in Hyderabad, Rodriguez captivates his audience with such thought-provoking inquiries.
He continued while talking to NSH, on his return, “it’s conceivable that you might encounter a surgeon grappling with personal issues, such as mental health or marital troubles. In such a scenario, would you still proceed with the operation?”
Necrobotics, a term derived from the Greek word νεκρóς, meaning ‘dead’, combined with ‘robotics’, represents the forefront of technological innovation. This avant-garde technology employs spiders as robotic forceps, specifically designed for micro-surgeries. While it may seem like a concept straight out of a science fiction novel, it is indeed a reality. It represents the final frontier in the integration of biology and artificial intelligence.
Indeed, the term “necrobotics” might give the impression that it involves the use of deceased spiders. However, this is a misconception. The actual focus is on bio-induced necrobotics, a sophisticated technology rooted in Artificial Intelligence. This technology leverages the unique properties of spider silk, along with other biocompatible materials, to construct microrobots. These microrobots are specifically designed for surgical applications, marking a significant advancement in the field of medical technology.
The concept of utilizing spiders as robotic forceps has been introduced as a more precise, delicate, and less invasive alternative to traditional mechanical forceps. This innovative idea was first discussed in 2022 by researchers from the Preston Innovation Lab at Rice University in Houston, Texas. Their pioneering work on this subject was published in the esteemed journal, Advanced Science.
How does it work?
The functioning of Necrobotics is indeed fascinating. The technology capitalizes on the robustness and flexibility of spider silk, which retains motor memory, to fabricate microrobots. Leveraging Artificial Intelligence, we repurpose spider legs and other biological materials for novel applications. Owing to their inherent properties of strength, elasticity, and finesse, these materials are transformed into actuators. These actuators form a crucial component of the robot, facilitating the execution of desired movements. This innovative approach truly exemplifies the convergence of biology and technology.
How far along are you with development?
Currently, the development of Necrobotics has reached a stage where microrobots are being utilized for relatively superficial surgical procedures, such as cataract surgeries. The application of this technology in the field of oncological surgery is yet to be explored.
Our development efforts are primarily focused in India, a region where the medical and healthcare sector is generally more receptive to new technologies and more willing to embrace risks associated with their implementation.
In contrast, the perception of this technology in Europe is somewhat different. It is often labeled as “creepy”, possibly due to the association of spiders, worms, and other insects with the term “creepy-crawlies”. This cultural perspective might influence the acceptance and adoption of such a technology. However, it’s an interesting observation and perhaps not entirely a coincidence. The challenge lies in changing these perceptions and highlighting the potential benefits of this innovative technology.
“During the surgical operation, the AI directs the microrobots, maneuvering them based on the specific task, thereby ensuring optimal precision and minimal tissue damage. Simultaneously, it analyzes clinical images in real time and records the data, providing doctors with invaluable information to enhance future interventions,” he succinctly concluded. This encapsulates the transformative potential of Necrobotics in revolutionizing surgical procedures.
– NSH Digi Desk
