Biomimicry
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Clingfish’s Super Strong Grip Could Inspire Better Adhesives

Clingfish’s Super Strong Grip Could Inspire Better Adhesives | Biomimicry | Scoop.it

"You know that pesky soap holder whose suction cup never stays attached to the shower wall? Scientists may now have a solution: mimic the clingfish.

These fish live in the intertidal zone—the area at the ocean’s edge where waves are constantly crashing against algae-covered rocks. Despite strong currents and even stronger waves, clingfish survive here by using the mechanism that earned them their name: they cling to the rocks with an adhesive disc on their abdomens that is unhindered by rough, slippery or wet surfaces. With this grip engaged, the fish can prey on mollusks attached to the rocks. We’re talking an unstoppable suction that is also fast and reversible."

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3-D Printed Octopus Suckers Help Robots Stick

3-D Printed Octopus Suckers Help Robots Stick | Biomimicry | Scoop.it

"Legions of animal-inspired robots are being created to improve military missions and disaster response efforts—from crawling cockroach-like RHex bots to leaping Sand Flea robots and the speeding Cheetah machines. Now, a squishier source for smart robo-tech has joined the ranks: octopuses."

Sam McCormick's curator insight, March 20, 2013 9:01 AM

This article invesigates biomimetics, 3D printing and the prospect of better grip for robotic hands. As control over the suckers improves, the way could be opened for less rigid gripping digits. This may overcome some of the challenges associated with robots gripping unknown and irregularly shaped objects.