"Bio-friction" by Zhongmin JIN and Duncan DOWSON

Home > FRICTION > Vol. 1 (2013) > Iss. 2

Article Title

Authors

Zhongmin JIN, School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, China School of Mechanical Engineering, University of Leeds, UK
Duncan DOWSON, School of Mechanical Engineering, University of Leeds, UK

Keywords

biofriction, soft tissues, friction

Abstract

Friction studies in biological systems are reviewed, including synovial joints (cartilage, meniscus), eye, pleurae, fat pad, skin, and oral cavity as well as daily activities associated with shaving, brushing, slip, etc. Both natural systems and medical interventions in terms of diagnoses and artificial replacements are considered. Important relevant biomechanical, physiological, and anatomical factors are reviewed in conjunction with friction studies in terms of both methodologies and friction coefficients. Important underlying tribological mechanisms related to friction are briefly discussed. A unified view on the lubrication mechanism responsible for the low friction in most soft biological tissues is presented.