Adhesion and Friction - a Study on Tactility

Abstract: Although we are surrounded by hundreds of surfaces we can still distinguish them from each other simply by touch. The tactile information, interpreted by our brain and given by our fingers, is precise, but to put words to the sensation is very difficult — is it smooth, sticky or harsh? We do not only perceive surfaces differently, we also describe them in our own way. Luckily the forces and deformations that the skin are exposed to when sliding over a surface is ruled by laws of nature.This thesis investigates the contact between finger and surface and how it is affected by, for example, material properties, surface texturing or changes in climate. By measuring contact area, friction coefficient, and adhesion, using different materials and under different conditions, conclusions could be drawn. Also, a model for the contact between a finger and a sinus­oidal surface was developed, which could be used to estimate contact area, deformation and resulting friction coefficient.Results showed how differences in for example material, surface topography and environ­ment affect the interaction between finger and surface, and what consequences it has. If the objective is to change the feel of a surface or to alter the grip, this thesis could work as a support.Paper A investigates the area and friction between finger and glass surface under different conditions.Paper B presents a model for the contact area and deformation for a finger in contact with a sinusoidal surface.Paper C is a validation of the contact area model. Here it was used on new surfaces and compared with new finger friction measurements.Paper D mainly examines whether the adhesion or stickiness of different surfaces is distinguishable by a test panel and how this affects the perceived pleasantness of the surface.Paper E relates to the adhesion and friction for a bioskin probe and skin. Tests were made to evaluate how an artificial probe can be used to evaluate the tactile properties of a surface.