In situ three-dimensional spider web construction and mechanics

Abstract

Spiders are nature’s engineers that build lightweight and high-performance web architectures often several times their size and with very few supports; however, little is known about web mechanics and geometries throughout construction, especially for three-dimensional (3D) spider webs. In this work, we investigate the structure and mechanics for a Tidarren sisyphoides spider web at varying stages of construction. This is accomplished by imaging, modeling, and simulations throughout the web-building process to capture changes in the natural web geometry and the mechanical properties. We show that the foundation of the web geometry, strength, and functionality is created during the first 2 d of construction, after which the spider reinforces the existing network with limited expansion of the structure within the frame. A better understanding of the biological and mechanical performance of the 3D spider web under construction could inspire sustainable robust and resilient fiber networks, complex materials, structures, scaffolding, and self-assembly strategies for hierarchical structures and inspire additive manufacturing methods such as 3D printing as well as inspire artistic and architectural and engineering applications.

Ultra‐Strong Regenerated Wool Keratin Fibers Regulating via Keratin Conformational Transition

“…[40][41][42][43] Therefore, engineering the keratin fibril structure remains an attractive strategy to build regenerated wool keratin fiber (RWKF) with high mechanical performance for meeting the industrial manufacturing demand. [44][45][46][47] By virtue of its atomically thin structure and conspicuous mechanical performance, graphene has widely been used as a reinforcement for bio-composite fibers. [48][49][50][51][52][53][54][55][56] However, the underlying reinforcement mechanism, such as the graphene-induced conformation transitions and their effects on fiber mechanical behaviors, has been seldom discussed.…”

“…[ 40–43 ] Therefore, engineering the keratin fibril structure remains an attractive strategy to build regenerated wool keratin fiber (RWKF) with high mechanical performance for meeting the industrial manufacturing demand. [ 44–47 ]…”

Bionic Spider Web Flexible Strain Sensor Based on CF-L and Machine Learning

“…Through research, it was found that the structure of the natural spider web in nature is composed of many radial silk threads protruding from the center and spiral silk threads around the center. The structure covers a wide area and is connected end to end, with excellent resonance sensing ability . When it is used in the structural design of the sensor, no matter where the strain occurs, it will be induced by structural resonance, so as to improve the sensitivity and stability of the sensor .…”

“…The structure covers a wide area and is connected end to end, with excellent resonance sensing ability. 35 When it is used in the structural design of the sensor, no matter where the strain occurs, it will be induced by structural resonance, so as to improve the sensitivity and stability of the sensor. 36 The structure of the spider web is refined and is difficult to make.…”

3D Printing of Ionogels with Complementary Functionalities Enabled by Self‐Regulating Ink

“…For instance, spiders spin sticky, extensible, and translucent capture threads on stiff radial structural threads, which synergistically perform the missions of sensing approaching targets, capturing prey, and dissipating the kinetic energy. [ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 ] Such integrated features greatly facilitate the advancements in shaping soft conductive materials as robotic counterparts that emulate the synergic functions of biological systems. [ 1 , 5 , 6 , 7 ] Compared with laborious and cost‐prohibitive mold‐making procedures, emerging 3D printing technologies offer unique advantages in the rapid design and fabrication of objects with complex geometries and functionalities beyond their bulky counterparts.…”