Water walking devices

Authors: David L. Hu, Manu Prakash, Brian Chan & John W. M. Bush

Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00348-007-0339-6

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00348-007-0339-6

Abstract: We report recent efforts in the design and construction of water-walking machines inspired by insects and spiders. The fundamental physical constraints on the size, proportion and dynamics of natural water-walkers are enumerated and used as design criteria for analogous mechanical devices. We report devices capable of rowing along the surface, leaping off the surface and climbing menisci by deforming the free surface. The most critical design constraint is that the devices be lightweight and non-wetting. Microscale manufacturing techniques and new man-made materials such as hydrophobic coatings and thermally actuated wires are implemented. Using high-speed cinematography and flow visualization, we compare the functionality and dynamics of our devices with those of their natural counterparts.

Additional Information:

So if insects can walk on water, why should we stand back. Here we attempt to make machines capable of walking on water (and succeed). Not an easy challenge considering surface tension supports very little weight. Though if you were to wear a shoe several kilometer in size, you might be able to stand on water. That is a start.