SGER: Bioengineering a SPM Based Nanomanipulator With Landmark Referenced Control

Michigan State University, East Lansing MI

Investigators

Abstract

0228508 Ayres The goal of the proposed work is to combine high-resolution Scanning Probe Microscope (SPM)-based imaging that has been achieved for biological specimens with a novel approach to SPM-based nanomanipulation to yield a significant new approach for direct nanobiological investigations. To achieve efficient and reliable manipulation in a micro/nano environment, capabilities of sensing, processing and actuation in dynamic interactions are essential. Using the proposed approach, signals that would normally be projected as an SPM image are acquired and essential information is extracted for subsequent use as the sensing component within a feedback control loop formulation. The control loop is used to accurately steer the probe's tip along a prescribed trajectory. The feedback loop formulation involves landmark recognition and dynamic pattern matching through adaptive learning. With this capability, the tip is able to return to and stay centered on a specific site by recognizing the way the site feels to the probe tip. Except for high-level commands, the human operator can be eliminated from the operation and the full potential of this instrument with inherently sub-nanometer resolution can be utilized.