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Updated: Jul 15, 2026

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Pattern Generation for Micropattern Traction Microscopy
Published on: February 17, 2022
Models for fingerprint pattern formation
1Theoretical Physics II, University of Bayreuth, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany. michael.kuecken@tu-dresden.de
Forensic Science International
|April 27, 2007
Abstract:
There is currently no general agreement on the process by which fingerprint (epidermal ridge) patterns form. Nevertheless, many possible mechanisms have been proposed. Based on an extensive literature review and mathematical modeling we argue that the pattern arises as the result of a buckling (folding) process in a cell layer of the epidermis. Using this model we were able to explain the long-known observation that the pattern type is related to the geometry of the embryonal fingertip.

