A Magnetically Controlled Capsule Robot for Obesity Treatment with Intra-gastric Balloon

The intra-gastric balloon (IGB) was designed as a physiological treatment for obesity. The effect has been tested and proved in many ways. But the endoscope can cause severe discomfort to patients. In this paper, a magnetic-controlled Intra-gastric Balloon capsule robot was design to replace the traditional IGB. It is the size of a capsule and can be inflated and deflated using an external rotating magnetic field. Which is mainly divided into magnetic switch, solid chamber, liquid chamber three parts. The rotating magnetic field drives the permanent magnet inside IGB capsule robot to rotate by controlling the current. Switched on by a magnetic switch driven by a permanent magnet, the acid-base reaction produces carbon dioxide that fills the balloon. Deflating is accomplished by changing the rotation direction of the magnetic field. The structure realizes the separate control of charging and deflating by magnetic switch and a screw with different direction threads, which improves the space utilization and security. Finally, the feasibility of the structure is verified by fluid simulation. Both water and gases can flow in the desired direction. IGB capsule robot can perform the functions needed for treatment.