Automatic Lizard-Climber! Inspired by the climbing prowess of its natural namesake, the "gekkomat" - meaning "automatic lizard-climber" is an autonomous machine that enables the user to traverse walls, ceilings and overhangs by using intuitive movements and without drawing on external energy sources. The idea took shape when gekkomat team head Gerald Winkler undertook an Industrial Design assignment entitled "Up and About" at the Stuttgart National Academy of Visual Arts. As a Master of Engineering, Winkler took the assignment literally and applied both disciplines to create the gekkomat concept. Developed over several years of research and testing, the fully functional prototype uses vacuum and friction principles to "stick" to a wide range of surfaces including glass, metal and rougher surfaces such as concrete, plasterboard and some rock. The system transforms normal compressed air from tanks carried on the user's back into a powerful vacuum via electronically controlled venturi-nozzles in the "foot-pads". An on-board computer constantly monitors and adjusts the pressure in each pad and ensures that at least three remain pressurised at any given time. A display on each pad also provides information on vacuum levels plus pneumatic and electrical energy reserves and as further safety back-up, warning alarms are activated if a minimum vacuum level is not achieved within two seconds of placing the pad. To move around the user simply pulls upward on the relevant limb and the suction is automatically released. This makes movement using the device more intuitive and natural so it's easier to learn.