Magnetoelectric composites for medical application

Magnetoelectric (ME) composites with magnetic-mechanical-electrical coupling have recently found numerous applications in sensors, actuators, and energy harvesters. As a magnetic field sensor, the ME composite can be used to develop energy harvesters and microrobot localization techniques. The ME transducers can generate displacement with a high degree of precision wirelessly in response to the applied external magnetic field. Power generated by ME energy harvesters from an ambient magnetic field or vibration can be used to control the embedded medical components. In this chapter, we describe the promising nature of ME composites for the wireless endoscopy, brain imaging, and surgical tools. Wireless capsule endoscopy can provide automated and continuous monitoring of the human body and, combined with ME sensors, it can be used to precisely monitor the region of interest. Miniature ME sensors with high sensitivity have the promise of performing biomagnetic measurements and are being targeted for noninvasive brain imaging. An example demonstration of a brain-controlled robotic hand is presented that illustrates the futuristic concept of brain-controlled machines. Lastly, a conceptual surgical tool utilizing self-sensing ME composites is proposed that could increase the safety in performing surgical procedures.