Biomimicry Dr Collette Foster

What is biomimicry? Biomimicry looks to nature and natural systems for inspiration. Another way to describe biomimicry is ‘bionics’

What is the connection between an engineer going bird watching and his saving millions of dollars for his company? Or, what does catching flies have to do with preventing plane crashes? How will locust swarms change the nature of our highways? Can a mould do a better job of plotting our mass transit systems than a team of engineers and planners?

The common thread in all these scenarios: Deep observation and analysis of the natural world can lead to amazingly creative innovations.

The Bullet Train

In nature, there is no such thing as waste — anything left over from one animal or plant is food for another species. Inefficiency doesn't last long in nature, and human engineers and designers often look to nature for solutions to modern problems.

7 Amazing examples of Biomimicry!

Sharkskin = Swimsuit Seen under an electron microscope, sharkskin is made up of countless overlapping scales called dermal denticles (or "little skin teeth"). The denticles have grooves running down their length in alignment with water flow. These grooves disrupt the formation of eddies, or turbulent swirls of slower water, making the water pass by faster. The rough shape also discourages parasitic growth such as algae and barnacles.

Sharkskin Also used on the bottom of boats. Cargo ships burn less oil and don't require cleaning chemicals for their hulls. Scientists are applying the technique to create surfaces in hospitals that resist bacteria growth — the bacteria can't catch hold on the rough surface.

Termite den = Office building Cooling chimneys and tunnels uses 90 percent less energy to heat and cool than traditional buildings.

Burr = Velcro Velcro is widely known example of biomimicry. Velcro was invented by Swiss engineer George de Mestral in 1941 after he removed burrs from his dog and decided to take a closer look at how they worked. 

Whale = Turbine What do you think we have used the whale fin concept for in the world today?

In 2004, scientists discovered that the bumps at the front edge of a whale fin greatly increase its efficiency, reducing drag by 32 percent and increasing lift by 8 percent. This concept was used to create wind turbine blades that greatly boost the amount of energy created per turbine. Also used for cooling fans, airplane wings and propellers.

Birds = Jets How do you think we can improve efficiency in jets in the future?

Birds have been able to boost the distance they're able to fly by more than 70 percent though the use of the V-shape. Scientists have discovered that when a flocks takes on the familiar V-formation, when one bird flaps its wings it creates a small updraft that lifts the bird behind. As each bird passes, they add their own energy to the stroke helping all the birds maintain flight.

A group of researchers at Stanford University thinks passenger airlines could realise fuel savings by using the same tactic. The team, lead by Professor Ilan Kroo, envisions scenarios where jets meet up and fly in formation en route to their destinations. By traveling in a V-shape, Kroo and his researchers think aircraft could use 15 percent less fuel compared to flying solo.

Lotus = Paint The lotus flower is sort of like the sharkskin of dry land. The flower's micro-rough surface naturally repels dust and dirt particles, keeping its petals sparkling clean.

Bug = Water collection How do you think we can use this little guy’s natural technology?

The Stenocara beetle is a master water collector The Stenocara beetle is a master water collector. The small black bug lives in a harsh, dry desert environment and is able to survive thanks to the unique design of its shell. The bug's back is covered in small, smooth bumps that serve as collection points for condensed water or fog. The entire shell is covered in a slick, Teflon-like wax and is channelled so that condensed water from morning fog is funnelled into the beetle's mouth.

Researchers have been able to build on the bug’s concept by crafting a material that collects water from the air more efficiently than existing designs. About 22 countries around the world now use nets to collect water from the air.

The End! References: http://www.mnn.com/earth-matters/wilderness- resources/photos/7-amazing-examples-of-biomimicry/copying- mother-nature http://www.greenbiz.com/blog/2012/10/19/how-one- engineers-birdwatching-made-japans-bullet-train-better http://mi2.org/featured/biomimicry-bullet-trains-innovation