Research on the friction regulation of biomimetic multi-layer setal arrays under cooperative deformation effects

Abstract

Biological setal arrays exhibit a complex multi-layer arrangement, allowing for friction behavior regulation through the cooperative deformation of the setae. To reveal the friction regulation mechanism of multi-layer setal arrays under cooperative deformation, this study established friction analytical models and validated the theoretical results through biomimetic experiments. Firstly, for sliding on smooth surface, it was found that under applied displacement, the continuous large deflection deformation of multi-length setae results in faster friction-reduction and better multi-stage load-bearing capacity. Then, for sliding on rough surface, the cooperative deformation of multi-length setae arranged in different directions can reduce fluctuations in the array’s friction and support force curves after force superposition. Multi-layer setal arrays demonstrate superior friction regulation compared to single-layer arrays. By adjusting the seta length ratio, number of layers, and distance, both friction and load-bearing performance can be further optimized. This study offers insights for designing biomimetic surfaces with controllable friction.