An atomic interaction‐based rod formulation for modelling Gecko adhesion

Abstract

We present a nonlinear rod model which describes the adhesion mechanism used by the Gecko to cling to inclined and overhanging surfaces. The rod formulation is used to model the fine, hair–like setae, which form the microstructure of the Gecko toes. A simple geometric representation, based on hyperbolas, is used to capture the branching of the seta. The adhesion between seta and surface is modelled by an atomic interaction potential. The seta model is cast into a nonlinear finite element framework, which is used to simulate and study the pull–off behavior of a single seta. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)