The researchers found that square plates move with only one degree of freedom: sliding when crushed. By contrast, circular plates have two degrees of freedom: they slide and they rotate. As a result, the square plates absorb much more energy before permanent failure begins.
To arrive at their findings, the researchers used a range of techniques, including 3D-printing a simplified model of the seahorse's tail, which they then bent, twisted, compressed and crushed. They also 3D-printed and ran similar experiments on a tail model made of overlapping round segments that they designed and that is not found in nature.
"New technologies, like 3D-printing, allow us to mimic biological designs, but also build hypothetical models of designs not found in nature," said Michael Porter, an assistant professor in mechanical engineering at Clemson University and the lead investigator on the study. "We can then test them against each other to find inspiration for new engineering applications and also explain why biological systems may have evolved."
Porter is now investigating how devices inspired by the structure of the seahorse's tail could be used in real life. One possibility is to scale up the structure to build a gripping robotic arm that can be used in hostile environments. Another is to scale it down to build a catheter. "The possibilities are many," said study co-author, Marc Meyers.
