What is Gekkomat and how does it work

A.� It's a new invention, inspired by the vertical climbing abilities of geckos, that allows humans to climb up walls. It is the brainchild of Gerald Winkler, from Herzogenaurach, Germany.

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Specially constructed suction pads, which form a vacuum, adhere automatically to a surface and allow the user to climb a wall. The vacuum is created by compressed air that's fed from canisters that the climber has strapped to their back. Each suction pad can support 250 kilograms and the whole Gekkomat unit weighs in at 25 kilograms.

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Q.� How do you know when it's safe to release a sucker and take a step

A.� Because the vacuum effect of each sucker is constantly monitored and adjusted by a computer. The computer displays when enough vacuum has been applied to allow the climber to release one sucker and take a step. As extra safety precautions, the suckers can only be released by an upward pull and the computer only allows one sucker to be free at a time.

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If the sucker doesn't instantly stick to a surface the computer alerts the climber with both visual and audible warnings.

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Q.� Why is Gekkomat better than other suction systems

A.� Because it'll work on any surfaces, even highly porous surfaces like plaster and concrete.

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Q.� The Gekkomat sounds like good news for international jewel thieves, who is it aimed at .

A.� Well actually the inventor is hoping it'll be used by more worthy professions, like emergency services involved in high-rise rescue.

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Q.� Does Gekkomat work

A.� A stuntman from the BBC put the system to test and managed to scale a 20-metre glass wall, albeit at a rather slower pace than a real gecko.

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Q.� How do Geckos walk up walls

A.� The secret lies in their hairy feet. This network of millions tiny hairs literally glue the lizard's feet to surfaces by producing an electrical attraction.

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by Lisa Cardy