<p>The friction anisotropy arising from the unique deformation mechanism of insect setae holds significant potential for object transport applications. This study presents a biomimetic setal array, which is capable of achieving controllable bidirectional transport of objects under vibration excitation. Experimental results reveal a complex phenomenon: as the vibration frequency increases, the transport velocity of the object initially increases, subsequently decreases and reverses direction, and ultimately undergoes another reversal of transporting direction at a significantly higher velocity. The effect of friction anisotropy on this phenomenon is thoroughly investigated through analysis of the transport process and the friction behavior of insect setae in nature. Additionally, an analytical model is developed, revealing the underlying mechanism of transport and providing a guidance for transport regulation. Following a detailed discussion on the effect of object mass on this novel transport strategy, this biomimetic setal array is demonstrated to enable controllable sorting and intelligent transport of objects.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>