What is it about?
This study explores the principles behind the remarkable adaptive suction capabilities of biological suckers, which result from the organic integration of muscles, epithelium, and mucus. Inspired by this, researchers subsequently develop a robotic suction cup with exceptionally strong adaptability.
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Photo by Diane Picchiottino on Unsplash
Why is it important?
Our discoveries and designs enable robots to adaptively anchor to or grip a wide range of irregular objects - eliminating the necessity for an always-on vacuum pump. This technology holds significant potential for acting as a versatile industrial robotic gripper.
Perspectives
I hope this article can build the bridge between artificial and biological suckers and help the world better understand the reasons behind the powerful suction capabilities of molluscs - and more importantly, bring the wonderful evolutionary results of nature to the benefit of human society.
Tianqi Yue
University of Bristol
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Bioinspired multiscale adaptive suction on complex dry surfaces enhanced by regulated water secretion, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, April 2024, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,
DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2314359121.
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