A Finite Element Seta Model for Studying Gecko Adhesion

We present a hierarchical rod model which describes the deformation and adhesion of Gecko setae. These fine hairs form the microstructure of the Gecko toes and enable the Gecko to adhere to inclined and overhanging surfaces. The adhesion is modelled by the van der Waals interaction between the molecules of the seta tips and the surface. To bridge the gap between molecular and seta scale, an intermediate model is formulated for the seta tips, the so called spatulae. The hierarchical seta model is cast into a nonlinear finite element framework to study the pull-off behavior of a single seta from an underlying substrate.