Elephant trunks have inspired a microhydraulic robot.
Meanwhile a research team in China has taken its lead from the ancient lamprey fish’s mouth to create its new hybrid suction disc, complete with a soft silicon lip which doubles as a seal on the outer edge.
Instead of teeth the disc calls on the knobs of a Shape Memory Polymer with an integrated heater. Above 33℃, the polymer becomes flexible.
By applying a vacuum the knobs are sucked into the crevices of rough surfaces, hardening in place when they cool down. Weighing just 70g, the device can lift up to 850 times its own weight – even underwater.
Origami techniques have inspired lightweight grippers, while octopuses provide a blueprint for suction ports.
