Abstract
Spider orb webs are multifunctional, acting to absorb prey impact energy and transmit vibratory information to the spider. This paper explores the links between silk material properties, propagation of vibrations within webs and the ability of the spider to control and balance web function. Combining experimental and modelling approaches, we contrast transverse and longitudinal wave propagation in the web. It emerged that both transverse and longitudinal wave amplitude in the web can be adjusted through changes in web tension and dragline silk stiffness, i.e. properties that can be controlled by the spider. In particular, we propose that dragline silk supercontraction may have evolved as a control mechanism for these multifunctional fibres. The various degrees of active influence on web engineering reveals the extraordinary ability of spiders to shape the physical properties of their self-made materials and architectures to affect biological functionality, balancing trade-offs between structural and sensory functions.
Highlights
Spider orb webs are two-dimensional snares that function to capture prey and transmit sensory information to the spider [1,2,3]
Dragline silk is known for its exceptional toughness and high tensile strength, the capture spiral is better known for its large strain elasticity and adhesive properties [7,8]
A nonlinear dynamic finite-element analysis (FEA) model of A. diadematus orb webs was developed to include (i) a detailed simulation of the real architecture of the web, (ii) the material properties of the silk, (iii) the pre-stress fields and (iv) the nonlinear aerodynamic drag forces
Summary
Spider orb webs are two-dimensional snares that function to capture prey and transmit sensory information to the spider [1,2,3]. A nonlinear dynamic finite-element analysis (FEA) model of A. diadematus orb webs was developed to include (i) a detailed simulation of the real architecture of the web, (ii) the material properties of the silk (here modelled as a linear elastic material, which is a relevant approximation for small amplitude vibration propagation), (iii) the pre-stress fields and (iv) the nonlinear aerodynamic drag forces These models allowed in-depth analysis of the transmission of sensory information along the silk threads by means of a finite duration wave pulse. The comparison of the models with experimental data from real webs allowed quantitative analysis of the link between silk material properties, elastic propagation of vibrations and the degree to which silk properties can be controlled and tuned This in turn provided novel insights into the natural design of orb webs as multifunctional structures that have both mechanical and sensory functions. Control of web properties by the spider would suggest that evolution can exploit physical laws in order to achieve biological function
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