Science & Technology

Geckos inspire real-life Spider-Man suit

By T.K. Randall
November 19, 2014 ·  8 comments

The system is certainly not as fast as the web-slinging superhero. Image Credit: CC BY-SA 3.0 Rameshng Researchers working for the US military have based the design on geckos which use bristles on their feet that split in to nano-sized tips capable of gripping even the smoothest of surfaces.

The wall climbing mechanism uses two hand pads made from silicone covered in tiny ridges that can hold on to surfaces in much the same way as the gecko's feet, bonding to the wall using microscopic slanting wedges whenever a weight is applied.To aid the user in hauling themselves up a vertical surface without hanging only from their hands the pads also include a set of foot rests connected to the pads via a metal pole.

"Unfortunately ‘spider suits' ignore some basic ergonomic issues," said engineer Mark Cutkosky. "People have much greater strength in their legs than in their arms."

"Therefore we think one needs a system where the hands are used to gently attach and detach the adhesive tiles. A system of cables and links transfers the load to the feet."


Source: The Guardian | Comments (8)

Tags: Spider-Man, Gecko