Abstract
Geckos generate the necessary adhesion force through their foot hair. The direction of the gecko's foot hair is not perpendicular to its finger surface, giving compliance to the hair. The effect of this compliance on the adhesion force is analysed and expressed theoretically in terms of contact mechanics. We conclude that the compliance of the foot hair is sufficient to generate the large adhesion force necessary for adhesion to rough surfaces, and that the structure of the seta with the spatulae allow the normal adhesion force to be controlled, allowing the gecko to make quick steps.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 639-643 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | International Journal of Adhesion and Adhesives |
Volume | 26 |
Issue number | 8 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Dec 2006 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Adhesion
- Attachment
- Biological adhesion
- Compliance
- Detachment
- Gecko
- JKR contact
- Mechanism
- Stiffness
- Surface roughness
- Wall-climbing
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Biomaterials
- General Chemical Engineering
- Polymers and Plastics