Research and Projects
Our aim is to reveal the biomechanical mechanisms underlying form-function relationships in biological organisms, in order to provide a better understanding of their evolution and motivate bio-inspired technical solutions for problems of societal relevance.
Capillary adhesion of stick insects
Scientific progress within the last few decades has revealed the functional morphology of an insect’s sticky footpads—a soft, sponge-like pad that secretes a thin liquid film. However, the physico-chemical mechanisms underlying their adhesion remain elusive.
Cephalopod-inspired suction cups
Cephalopods can attach to their prey quickly and precisely using suction cups, yet the biomechanics underlying their adhesive performance remain unclear. We use biomimetic, soft robotic models to better understand their adhesive properties.
The biomechanics of prey capture and attachment in cephalopods
Cephalopods have received considerable attention in biomimetics research in recent years, due to their unique dexterity and attachment devices. However, most research has thus far focused on octopods, whereas decapod cephalopods (cuttlefish and squids, Cephalopoda: Decapodiformes) have received less attention.
Bio-Inspired Design & Soft Robotics
Using molding and casting techniques, we aim to create bio-inspired suction cups to better understand their attachment mechanism.