We studied the morphology of a remora suction disk and developed a biomimetic prototype by integrating fabrication methods from 3D printing, molding, and mesoscale laser ablation.
Meso-scale fabrication methods are not limited to making microrobots. In collaboration with Prof. Li Wen, we integrated meso-scale carbon fiber spinules onto a 3D printed, soft robotic suction disk that mimics the adhesive function of a remora fish. This bio-inspired suction disc works on surfaces of various roughness and shows very good performance on bio-surfaces such as the shark skin.