Importance

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Abstract

A microstructure made of flexible material includes a plurality of projections extending from a common substrate. A distal end of each projection includes a resilient flap. All lateral dimensions of each of the projections increase monotonically with increased distance from a surface defined by distal ends of the flaps when the flaps are unbent. Each of the projections extends from the common substrate in a general direction that is locally substantially perpendicular to the surface defined by the ends of the flaps. When a shear force is applied to each of the flaps by relative motion between the flap and a cooperating surface in contact with the flap, the flap bends so as to increase the area of contact of that flap with the cooperating surface, affecting adhesion between the microstructure and the cooperating surface.

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First Claim