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Kinematics of gecko climbing: the lateral undulation pattern
Wei Wang1, Aihong Ji1, Guangming Chen1
1Institute of Bio-Inspired Structure and Surface Engineering, College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, 29 Yudao Street, 210016, Nanjing, China.
Zoology (Jena, Germany)
|April 13, 2020
Summary
Geckos use trunk and tail undulation for locomotion, changing from standing to traveling waves as speed increases. Stride frequency significantly impacts gecko speed more than stride length.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Zoology
- Locomotion analysis
Background:
- Geckos exhibit remarkable terrestrial locomotion across varied surfaces.
- Their movement involves cyclical lateral bending of the trunk and tail to coordinate limbs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate gecko locomotion kinematics, specifically lateral undulation.
- To analyze how trunk and tail movements change with increasing velocity on different planes.
Main Methods:
- Utilized an optical motion capture system to record gecko (Gekko gecko) kinematics.
- Measured lateral undulation patterns at various speeds on horizontal, 45°, and vertical planes.
Main Results:
- Gecko locomotion velocity increased with stride frequency and length, with frequency having a greater impact.
- Lateral undulation patterns shifted from standing waves at low speeds to traveling waves at high speeds.
- Traveling waves result from combined lateral trunk bending and body deflection.
Conclusions:
- Gecko locomotion strategy adapts to speed and surface via trunk and tail undulation.
- The transition to traveling waves enhances efficiency at higher velocities.
- Girdle rotation and axial muscle activity are key to generating these undulation patterns.
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