The natural evolution of ultrafast motion in living systems has inspired scientists and engineers across disciplines to design biomimetic materials and fast-moving robots. In this work, we explore the question: how can natural polymeric materials be utilized to achieve ultrafast motion? To do so, we utilize high speed cameras to investigate a tiny arachnid native to the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest known as the “Slingshot Spider.” Unlike many orb-weaving spiders, the Slingshot Spider spins its silk into a 3-D conical web to achieve accelerations exceeding 130 g, an order of magnitude faster than a cheetah. In this talk, I will discuss how slingshot spiders achieve ultrafast motion and share insight about the biological function of this extraordinary prey capture strategy. Additionally, I will share our utilization of theoretical modeling and physical models built from elastic materials to understand the roles of polymeric materials, fundamental physics concepts, and engineering design in ultrafast motion. With this research we aim to shed insight into how these lightweight silk structures are able to rapidly and repeatedly dissipate energy and protect the spider against the large stresses generated during this extreme motion.

Ultrafast motion of the slingshot spider powered by a 3-D conical web

2019 Fall National Meeting

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