Dynamic Microtopography Arrays for Hybrid and Adaptive Switchable Adhesion

The feet of many insects contain both a ‘sticky’ pad and sharp claws that can be intelligently actuated to ‘switch’ (on/off) their adhesion to smooth and rough surfaces, respectively. In contrast, synthetic switchable adhesives designs are mechanistically simple and unable to adapt to real-world surfaces. This work proposes a bio-inspired hybrid (multi-mechanistic) and adaptive device that can control adhesion and friction on both smooth and rough surfaces. A novel pneumatic smart surface is designed that both actuates (rotates) multifunctional adhesive microtopography and provides sensory feedback at multiple independent areas on the surface. It will be shown that by rotating topography, the surface can switch between sticky and non-sticky states (99.3% reduction) and can also interlock with holes and protrusions (asperities) of rough surfaces. Through integrated and external sensory feedback combined local control, the device can sense adhesion loss, surface contact, and ultimately develop localized adhesive strategies that optimise global adhesion.M.A.S.2020-11-20 00:00:0