Surface Texturing for Friction Control: A Review on Existing Technology and Prospects

Abstract

Friction control is the most fundamental and important issue in the field of tribology. In recent years, friction control technology, which aims to reduce the energy loss in mechanical systems to address global environmental issues, has received significant attention. Friction control involves minimizing the friction coefficients and maintaining high frictional forces, such as in power transmissions and brakes. Surface texturing plays a crucial role in controlling the friction of tribological elements. In the future, technologies for active friction control at the interface between living organisms and artifacts will be indispensable for realizing a collaborative society with the coexistence of humans and robots. This article reviews the role and key findings of surface texturing and outlines its potential and future trends.