Components with highly sensitive surfaces are used in
automotive, semiconductor and display technologies as well as for complex
optical lens systems. During the production process, these parts are
transferred in between many process steps. Each pick-up and release with
conventional gripping systems involves the risk of either contamination of the
surfaces with residues from transportation adhesives, or damaging due to
mechanical gripping. Suction cup systems diminish residues, but fail in a
vacuum or on rough surfaces. Researchers at the INM enhanced the Gecko adhesion
principle such that adhesion can be switched on and off in vacuum.
The researchers from the INM will be presenting their new
Gecomer® technology at the International Nanotechnology Exhibition and
Conference nano tech 2015, Tokyo, Japan.