The Structure of Ventral Scale Textures in Snakes in Comparison to Texturing of Deterministic Tribological Surfaces

Abstract

This chapter introduces the principles of bio-inspired design texturing of surfaces. Texturing is a leading technology applied to modify surface topography. To date, a standardized procedure to generate deterministic textures is non-existent. In nature, there are many examples of deterministic textures that allow species to condition tribological response for efficient function. This work compares industrial surfaces and the structural makeup of ventral scales in snakes. The authors compare the metrological features of the ventral scales to performance indicators of industrial surfaces. It is shown that the metrological features, key to efficient function of a rubbing deterministic surface, are already optimized in reptilian skin. Further, it is shown that this optimization originates from synchronizing surface form, texture, and topology. Results indicate that mimicking reptilian surfaces is potentially capable of generating advanced deterministic surface constructs of efficient tribological function.