title: Complex flow dynamics around 3D microbot prototypes.
abstract: A new experimental setup for the study of the complex flow dynamics around 3D microbot prototypes in a straight microchannel has been developed and assessed. The ultimate aim of this work is focused on the analysis of the morphology of different microbot prototypes to get a better insight into their efficiency when they swim through the main conduits of the human circulatory system. The setup consists of a fused silica straight microchannel with a 3D microbot prototype fastened in the center of the channel cross-section by an extremely thin support. Four different prototypes were considered: a cube, a sphere and two ellipsoids with aspect ratios of 1 : 2 and 1 : 4, respectively. Flow visualization and micro-particle image velocimetry (μPIV) measurements were performed using Newtonian and viscoelastic blood analogue fluids. An efficiency parameter, ℑ, to discriminate the prototypes in terms of flow disturbance has been proposed.
authors.affiliation: CEFT, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto. Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal. campo@fe.up.pt laura@campodeano.com.
authors.forename: Sergio
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Martínez-Aranda
authors.affiliation: CEFT, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto. Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal. campo@fe.up.pt laura@campodeano.com.
authors.forename: Francisco J
authors.initials: FJ
authors.lastname: Galindo-Rosales
authors.affiliation: CEFT, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto. Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal. campo@fe.up.pt laura@campodeano.com.
authors.forename: Laura
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Campo-Deaño