inspired by a tree: bypassing problems will make complex systems more fail-safe
September 13, 2015 | separating | Comments (0)
Look closely at many tree and plant leaves and you will see an intricate network of veins. Besides the channels branching outward from a central stem, you may also notice many smaller veins in random directions, connecting with each other in closed loops. This complex arrangement is unlike the simpl
[ read more ]
use liana or an air-beam to conquer long distances
September 13, 2015 | weight | Comments (0)
Tensairity® is a revolutionary light weight beam element developed by Airlight Ldt. The synergetic combination of an airbeam, cables and struts leads to this extraordinary light weight structure, using very low internal pressure but with the load bearing capacity of conventional steel girders.
[ read more ]
DNA will rule Mass-Data-Storage
September 13, 2015 | occurs when necessary | Comments (0)
DNA is a complex biomolecule which is embedded in the cells of all living organisms. DNA consists of two intertwined chains of simpler molecules. The arrangement of these units serves as a blueprint or recipe for the structure and internal activity of plants, animals, and people. Life is incredibl
[ read more ]
Manta Ray goes beyond air
September 13, 2015 | weight | Comments (0)
Air-ray, modelled on the manta ray, is a remote-controlled hybrid construction consisting of a helium-filled ballonet and a beating wing drive. Its lightweight design enables it to “swim” in the sea of air using the lift from the helium in a similar way to the manta ray in water. &n
[ read more ]
Leaves learn us how to produce electricity and harvest water
September 13, 2015 | surface | Comments (0)
Transpiration is the evaporation of water from the leaves of plants and trees. The undersides of leaves are dotted with hundreds of tiny openings called stoma. Carbon dioxide enters the leaf through these pores, and water escapes. A mature tree may evaporate hundreds of gallons of water on a warm,
[ read more ]
Festo´s world of bionic solutions
September 13, 2015 | swarm intelligence | Comments (0)
Festo has been working intensively on the topic of bionics since the early 90s. In 2006, the Bionic Learning Network was launched – an association of renowned universities, institutes and development companies. Since this time, Festo has been developing and supporting projects and test objects who
[ read more ]
bio-inspired spring to reach your tall targets
September 13, 2015 | up/down lift | Comments (0)
It has long been known that many climbing plants produce unusual tendrils for grasping and climbing. When stretched tightly, the spiral-shaped fibers do not unwind to a flat ribbon like a typical spring shape such as a telephone cord. Instead, when stretched, sections of the fiber coil further in t
[ read more ]
Shark Skin as an bacteria barrier
September 13, 2015 | surface | Comments (0)
In the sea, a whale’s skin is home to barnacles, algae, and bacteria. In contrast, shark skin is squeaky clean. Parasites appear unable to attach to the shark skin. It is thought that the many small ridges and bumps on the shark’s skin surface discourage attachment. Bacteria prefer to colonize a
[ read more ]
bio-inspired spring to reach your tall targets
September 13, 2015 | up/down lift | Comments (0)
It has long been known that many climbing plants produce unusual tendrils for grasping and climbing. When stretched tightly, the spiral-shaped fibers do not unwind to a flat ribbon like a typical spring shape such as a telephone cord. Instead, when stretched, sections of the fiber coil further in t
[ read more ]
Mussel-Inspired 'Glue' for Surgical Repair
September 13, 2015 | wet instead of dry | Comments (0)
When it comes to sticking power under wet conditions, marine mussels are hard to beat. They can adhere to virtually all inorganic and organic surfaces, sustaining their tenacious bonds in saltwater, including turbulent tidal environments. Technical application: unexpected high! Bionic appli
[ read more ]
stegosaurus plates for innovative wind-turbines
September 13, 2015 | up/down lift | Comments (0)
Thousands of wind turbines have been installed worldwide in recent years for the production of clean electric energy. Efforts continue to make the large turbines efficient and quiet. One successful modification of existing turbine blades is inspired by the stegosaur. Technical applicat
[ read more ]
The design of trees helps to reduce plastic waste
September 13, 2015 | weight | Comments (0)
Many trees do not have vertical capillary tubes for transporting water upward. Instead, a spiral network of capillaries and fibers extend the entire length of the tree. This helical geometry strengthens the tree, allowing a greater flexibility or bending motion in high wind or during heavy weight lo
[ read more ]
Use algae to create meachanical nano gears
September 13, 2015 | tension | Comments (0)
Diatoms are microscopic, single-celled algae. They are typically a few microns in diameter, ten times smaller than the width of a human hair. There are many thousands of distinct diatom species known, in both plant and animal varieties. They exist in countless numbers in the sea and are the base of
[ read more ]
Zebrafish hearing can inspire to heal hearing disorders at humans
September 13, 2015 | transmitter | Comments (0)
The zebrafish lives in tropical waters and is a popular aquarium resident. This fish has clusters of hair cells spaced along its body. The hair follicles sense pressure changes and vibrations in water. This information helps the zebrafish navigate and avoid predators. The hairs are rooted in skin ce
[ read more ]
flexible eye lens focused by a fluid
September 13, 2015 | volume | Comments (0)
The lens in our eye has a special designed feature called accommodation. That is, the lens changes shape, curvature, or focal length to bring images into focus. When we look at a far distant object the lens becomes thinner. For nearby objects the lens thickens and becomes rounder for clear vision.
[ read more ]
Spider Web Glass
September 13, 2015 | use colors | Comments (0)
Certain spiders protect their delicately crafted insect nets with a special silk rope that reflects ultraviolet rays. Birds can see the ultraviolet rays and recognize the webs as obstacles they should avoid. If engineers can reproduce the effect, it might save birds from their occasional acci
[ read more ]
Seashells are harder than ceramics and can be printed by your desktop 3D printer?
September 13, 2015 | tension | Comments (0)
For example, an abalone shell is stronger than high-tech ceramics because of its internal structure. Diatom shells are made of silica (glass), but they are extremely strong because of their stress-distributing pattern of holes. Like nature, 3-D printers can excel at building complex structures fr
[ read more ]
Razor Clam - Anchor
September 13, 2015 | wet instead of dry | Comments (0)
The razor clam has a long narrow shell, somewhat resembling an old-fashioned straight razor. The shells also have a sharp edge. The clam is hunted for food in exposed mudflats along the ocean shoreline. Its defense against people and predators is an impressive ability to burrow underground rapidly
[ read more ]
Dolphines help to indicate tsunami
September 13, 2015 | periodical action | Comments (0)
A tsunami is an ocean disturbance resulting from seismic movement of the sea floor. A wave results and moves across the ocean surface at hundreds of miles per hour. In deep water the passing wave may be only a foot or less in height. Approaching the shallow shoreline, however, the wave becomes larg
[ read more ]
Cellulose with 7500N/mm² is stronger than Kevlar (R)
September 13, 2015 | weight | Comments (0)
The Forest Products Laboratory of the US Forest Service has opened a US$1.7 million pilot plant for the production of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) from wood by-products materials such as wood chips and sawdust. Technical application: substitute for steel or kevlar Bionic appli
[ read more ]
inspired by a tree: bypassing problems will make complex systems more fail-safe
September 13, 2015 | separating | Comments (0)
Look closely at many tree and plant leaves and you will see an intricate network of veins. Besides the channels branching outward from a central stem, you may also notice many smaller veins in random directions, connecting with each other in closed loops. This complex arrangement is unlike the simpl
[ read more ]
a much more efficient impellent for submarines
September 13, 2015 | speed | Comments (0)
A researcher at Caltech is developing new ways to power submarines and windmills using the lowly jellyfish. Jellyfish have a unique method of swimming through ocean water. Rather than using fins and flippers, they “pump” their body to produce ring-shaped pulses of water called vortex rings. Thes
[ read more ]
gecko feet sticks by the force of electricity
September 13, 2015 | surface | Comments (0)
Electronic circuits typically constructed on very thin silicon surfaces. Now, suppose that we want to transfer such a circuit unto a non-flat surface such as cloth or leather. Circuits are fragile and any surface contact during movement can be destructive. Researchers at Northwestern University and
[ read more ]
NEW VDI-guideline for bionic structure optimization in the context of a holistic product development process
September 13, 2015 | brainwave | Comments (0)
There are several VDI guidelines about bionic related topics on the VDI-webpage. The Papers are: VDI 6220 Blatt 1 Biomimetics - Conception and strategy - Differences between biomimetic and conventional methods/products VDI 6221 Blatt 1 Biomimetics - Biomimetic surfaces VDI 6222 Bla
[ read more ]
inspired by a tree: bypassing problems will make complex systems more fail-safe
September 13, 2015 | separating | Comments (0)
Look closely at many tree and plant leaves and you will see an intricate network of veins. Besides the channels branching outward from a central stem, you may also notice many smaller veins in random directions, connecting with each other in closed loops. This complex arrangement is unlike the simpl
[ read more ]
dandelion roots as substitute for common rubber
September 13, 2015 | speed | Comments (0)
Continental has at the Commercial Vehicle IAA his future version of the tire presents: Sustainable, and especially less dependent on price fluctuations than the usual natural rubber, is the tire manufacturer on the commodity dandelion. On Tuesday the first test tire rubber from dandelions was prese
[ read more ]
Idea TO Product, transfer your inspriation by the support of: ECODESIGN
September 13, 2015 | ecodesign | Comments (0)
The central idea was to collect all interesting information and links about ECODESIGN and make it accessible to a broad audience. http://www.ecodesign.at/index.en.html The general introduction gives a short description and motivation for ECODESIGN. Environmental product design focus on the who
[ read more ]
bio-inspired spring to reach your tall targets
September 13, 2015 | up/down lift | Comments (0)
It has long been known that many climbing plants produce unusual tendrils for grasping and climbing. When stretched tightly, the spiral-shaped fibers do not unwind to a flat ribbon like a typical spring shape such as a telephone cord. Instead, when stretched, sections of the fiber coil further in t
[ read more ]
sugar for Vaccines conservation
September 13, 2015 | transmitter | Comments (0)
Nova’s stabilisation platforms are based on a sugar-glass stabilization concept. The inspiration for this technology arose from observations of anhydrobiotic organisms, such as the Resurrection Plant (Selaginella lepidophylla), which can protect themselves from extreme desiccation. Such organisms
[ read more ]
Intestine - Fuel Tank
September 13, 2015 | shape | Comments (0)
This is an unusual example of practical designs found in nature. Automobiles have several new options for fuel including batteries, hydrogen gas, and natural gas. Natural gas is especially attractive because it is in good supply in the U.S., and emits only half the carbon dioxide of conventional fos
[ read more ]
Dolphin-Monofin
September 13, 2015 | speed | Comments (0)
Many sea creatures including dolphins, porpoises, and whales have a tail structure that results in impressive bursts of speed. Their tail fin, called a fluke, is waved back and forth to provide forward motion. Meanwhile, the pectoral and dorsal fins provide directional stability. Dolphins reach spee
[ read more ]
Dog inspired drying machines
September 13, 2015 | weight | Comments (0)
Perhaps you have stood near a wet dog as it dries by shaking its fur. Watch out! An impressive amount of water is thrown off in all directions. The shaking technique for furry creatures including mice, dogs, and bears is studied by researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta. They
[ read more ]
Shark Skin as an bacteria barrier
September 13, 2015 | surface | Comments (0)
In the sea, a whale’s skin is home to barnacles, algae, and bacteria. In contrast, shark skin is squeaky clean. Parasites appear unable to attach to the shark skin. It is thought that the many small ridges and bumps on the shark’s skin surface discourage attachment. Bacteria prefer to colonize a
[ read more ]
Termites nest for ventilating skyscrapers
September 13, 2015 | temperature | Comments (0)
Termits use a smart way to ventilate their nest. A team of mechanical and civil engineers at Loughborough University, UK, hopes to construct buildings that can create comfortable living conditions by extending our use of renewable f
[ read more ]
lizard tail for stabilizers
September 13, 2015 | weight | Comments (0)
Lizards are some of the most versatile animals on the planet. Geckoes for example can climb straight up walls, even across glass ceilings upside down. Their feet have been studied to learn how to make better adhesives. Now, lizards are the subject of a new investigation which includes the dinosaurs.
[ read more ]
sugar for Vaccines conservation
September 13, 2015 | transmitter | Comments (0)
Nova’s stabilisation platforms are based on a sugar-glass stabilization concept. The inspiration for this technology arose from observations of anhydrobiotic organisms, such as the Resurrection Plant (Selaginella lepidophylla), which can protect themselves from extreme desiccation. Such organisms
[ read more ]
flexible eye lens focused by a fluid
September 13, 2015 | volume | Comments (0)
The lens in our eye has a special designed feature called accommodation. That is, the lens changes shape, curvature, or focal length to bring images into focus. When we look at a far distant object the lens becomes thinner. For nearby objects the lens thickens and becomes rounder for clear vision.
[ read more ]
use liana or an air-beam to conquer long distances
September 13, 2015 | weight | Comments (0)
Tensairity® is a revolutionary light weight beam element developed by Airlight Ldt. The synergetic combination of an airbeam, cables and struts leads to this extraordinary light weight structure, using very low internal pressure but with the load bearing capacity of conventional steel girders.
[ read more ]
inspired by a tree: bypassing problems will make complex systems more fail-safe
September 13, 2015 | separating | Comments (0)
Look closely at many tree and plant leaves and you will see an intricate network of veins. Besides the channels branching outward from a central stem, you may also notice many smaller veins in random directions, connecting with each other in closed loops. This complex arrangement is unlike the simpl
[ read more ]
Termite-inspired robots build structures without central command
September 13, 2015 | swarm intelligence | Comments (0)
BUILDER BOT: This building robot uses a forklift-style arm to hoist foam bricks onto its back and three-pronged wheel-legs to trek around a construction site. An onboard computer “brain” helps the bot navigate and make building decisions independently. Technical application: climb steps,
[ read more ]
Saliva a wound-healing elixier
September 13, 2015 | wet instead of dry | Comments (0)
This example of a practical design in nature may lack appeal but it is vitally important to our health. A common phrase is to “lick one’s own wounds.” This saying expresses the effort to care for one’s own needs and generally look out for oneself. However, there is a more practical applicati
[ read more ]
Leave inspire for more flexible robots, grabbers and operation tools
September 13, 2015 | shape | Comments (0)
Many plant blossoms open and close on a daily schedule and slowly follow the sun across the sky. Other plants display more vigorous behavior. The small leaves fold inward in just seconds and then slowly reopen. The active plant grows worldwide and the Latin term pudica means shy, bashful, or shrin
[ read more ]
inspired by a tree: bypassing problems will make complex systems more fail-safe
September 13, 2015 | separating | Comments (0)
Look closely at many tree and plant leaves and you will see an intricate network of veins. Besides the channels branching outward from a central stem, you may also notice many smaller veins in random directions, connecting with each other in closed loops. This complex arrangement is unlike the simpl
[ read more ]
Seashells are harder than ceramics and can be printed by your desktop 3D printer?
September 13, 2015 | tension | Comments (0)
For example, an abalone shell is stronger than high-tech ceramics because of its internal structure. Diatom shells are made of silica (glass), but they are extremely strong because of their stress-distributing pattern of holes. Like nature, 3-D printers can excel at building complex structures fr
[ read more ]
Honeycomb for stiff constructions
September 13, 2015 | weight | Comments (0)
Honeycomb structures are natural or man-made structures that have the geometry of a honeycomb to allow the minimization of the amount of used material to reach minimal weight and minimal material cost. Technical application: composit materials, low weight constructions Bionic applicatio
[ read more ]
Pilot Whale for a Self-cleaning Ship Hull and safe of fuel costs
September 13, 2015 | wet instead of dry | Comments (0)
Long-finned pilot whales swim in cool regions of the oceans. They grow to 12-16 feet in length and weigh several tons. The whales are characterized by an enlarged forehead and a swimming behavior similar to dolphins. The creatures are found to have highly-specialized apparatus for maintaining smoot
[ read more ]
our brain inspires for supercomputers
September 13, 2015 | swarm intelligence | Comments (0)
Computers have come a long way but they still primitive compared with our own brainpower. Our brains can handle much more information and processing than any supercomputer yet developed. The brain is so far superior to current computers that scientists seek ways to mimic its “wiring” in modern c
[ read more ]
the mystical movement of snakes
September 13, 2015 | surface | Comments (0)
Snakes have scales on their belly skin which help them move about. On a flat surface, the body weight is continuously redistributed for maximum friction, and the scales provide grip. Researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology have made detailed studies of the movement of the milk snake. The
[ read more ]
the mystical movement of snakes
September 13, 2015 | surface | Comments (0)
Snakes have scales on their belly skin which help them move about. On a flat surface, the body weight is continuously redistributed for maximum friction, and the scales provide grip. Researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology have made detailed studies of the movement of the milk snake. The
[ read more ]
sugar for Vaccines conservation
September 13, 2015 | transmitter | Comments (0)
Nova’s stabilisation platforms are based on a sugar-glass stabilization concept. The inspiration for this technology arose from observations of anhydrobiotic organisms, such as the Resurrection Plant (Selaginella lepidophylla), which can protect themselves from extreme desiccation. Such organisms
[ read more ]
Shark Skin as an bacteria barrier
September 13, 2015 | surface | Comments (0)
In the sea, a whale’s skin is home to barnacles, algae, and bacteria. In contrast, shark skin is squeaky clean. Parasites appear unable to attach to the shark skin. It is thought that the many small ridges and bumps on the shark’s skin surface discourage attachment. Bacteria prefer to colonize a
[ read more ]
Morpho butterfly; color without pigments
September 13, 2015 | use colors | Comments (0)
Many morpho butterflies are colored in metallic, shimmering shades of blues and greens. These colors are not a result of pigmentation but are an example of iridescence through structural coloration: the microscopic scales covering the Morpho's wings reflect incident light repeatedly at successive la
[ read more ]
Termite-inspired robots build structures without central command
September 13, 2015 | swarm intelligence | Comments (0)
BUILDER BOT: This building robot uses a forklift-style arm to hoist foam bricks onto its back and three-pronged wheel-legs to trek around a construction site. An onboard computer “brain” helps the bot navigate and make building decisions independently. Technical application: climb steps,
[ read more ]
Gecko feet for car tires
September 13, 2015 | surface | Comments (0)
Using design principles inspired by the nanoscopic hairs on the gecko, UC Berkeley researchers and colleagues have created a novel microfiber array which has very high friction but is not ``sticky''. Technical application: car tires, drive on solar panels Bionic
[ read more ]
ultrathin insulation for buildings inspired by the polar bear
September 13, 2015 | temperature | Comments (0)
Mimicking polar bear fur, which is able to insulate the animal's body to temperatures of 98.6° F (37° C) when outside temperatures get as low as -40° F (-40° C) could lead to better building insulation Technical application: ultrathin insulation Bionic application: pol
[ read more ]
Honeycomb for stiff constructions
September 13, 2015 | weight | Comments (0)
Honeycomb structures are natural or man-made structures that have the geometry of a honeycomb to allow the minimization of the amount of used material to reach minimal weight and minimal material cost. Technical application: composit materials, low weight constructions Bionic applicatio
[ read more ]
Use algae to create meachanical nano gears
September 13, 2015 | tension | Comments (0)
Diatoms are microscopic, single-celled algae. They are typically a few microns in diameter, ten times smaller than the width of a human hair. There are many thousands of distinct diatom species known, in both plant and animal varieties. They exist in countless numbers in the sea and are the base of
[ read more ]
will our lungs help to reduce carbon dioxid emissions on our planet?
September 13, 2015 | surface | Comments (0)
Our hard-working lungs clearly show intelligent planning. Within our lungs, countless tiny air sacks called alveoli exchange gases from the bloodstream, supplying fresh oxygen and removing carbon dioxide. The component membranes which allow separation and passage of the gases are about one thousand
[ read more ]
eMotionSpheres like a jellyfish swarm
September 13, 2015 | swarm intelligence | Comments (0)
With the eMotionSpheres, Festo shows how several flying objects can move in a coordinated manner and within a defined space. Whether individually or collectively – even in chaotic situations, there are no collisions as the spheres move out of each other’s way. T
[ read more ]
Alligator Blood for Antibiotics
September 13, 2015 | self service | Comments (0)
Many American alligators live in stagnant, polluted waters. Their diet includes diseased, infected, and injured animals. In addition, fierce battles with prey often lead to wounds. Nevertheless, the alligators tend to remain healthy. Technical application: Bionic application:
[ read more ]
Spider Web Glass
September 13, 2015 | use colors | Comments (0)
Certain spiders protect their delicately crafted insect nets with a special silk rope that reflects ultraviolet rays. Birds can see the ultraviolet rays and recognize the webs as obstacles they should avoid. If engineers can reproduce the effect, it might save birds from their occasional acci
[ read more ]
Spider Web Glass
September 13, 2015 | use colors | Comments (0)
Certain spiders protect their delicately crafted insect nets with a special silk rope that reflects ultraviolet rays. Birds can see the ultraviolet rays and recognize the webs as obstacles they should avoid. If engineers can reproduce the effect, it might save birds from their occasional acci
[ read more ]
beaver teeths for sharp cutting-tools
September 13, 2015 | surface | Comments (0)
German engineers have applied the tooth sharpening ability of rodents to cutting tools. Beavers, rats, rabbits and similar rodents depend on their teeth for survival. They are experts at gnawing, and their teeth are designed with a self-sharpening ability. Unlike our own, rodent teeth are covered
[ read more ]
will our lungs help to reduce carbon dioxid emissions on our planet?
September 13, 2015 | surface | Comments (0)
Our hard-working lungs clearly show intelligent planning. Within our lungs, countless tiny air sacks called alveoli exchange gases from the bloodstream, supplying fresh oxygen and removing carbon dioxide. The component membranes which allow separation and passage of the gases are about one thousand
[ read more ]
airtight and flexible, the Arampaima skin
September 13, 2015 | tension | Comments (0)
Brazil's Amazon waterways are home to the feared piranha. The razor-like teeth of these aggressive fish make quick work of most prey. However, large Arapaima fish share space with piranha, even in crowded ponds. Arapaima are one of the largest freshwater fish, reaching 300 pounds and a length of 8 f
[ read more ]
Festo´s world of bionic solutions
September 13, 2015 | swarm intelligence | Comments (0)
Festo has been working intensively on the topic of bionics since the early 90s. In 2006, the Bionic Learning Network was launched – an association of renowned universities, institutes and development companies. Since this time, Festo has been developing and supporting projects and test objects who
[ read more ]
Snail - Robotics
September 13, 2015 | wet instead of dry | Comments (0)
The snail is probably one of the most picked-on creatures in the world. How could this small, slow animal possibly benefit anyone, other than on the French menu as escargot? However, researchers are now copying the design of the snail when making small robots. Technical application: Bio
[ read more ]
Razor Clam - Anchor
September 13, 2015 | wet instead of dry | Comments (0)
The razor clam has a long narrow shell, somewhat resembling an old-fashioned straight razor. The shells also have a sharp edge. The clam is hunted for food in exposed mudflats along the ocean shoreline. Its defense against people and predators is an impressive ability to burrow underground rapidly
[ read more ]
Dolphines help to indicate tsunami
September 13, 2015 | periodical action | Comments (0)
A tsunami is an ocean disturbance resulting from seismic movement of the sea floor. A wave results and moves across the ocean surface at hundreds of miles per hour. In deep water the passing wave may be only a foot or less in height. Approaching the shallow shoreline, however, the wave becomes larg
[ read more ]
Salt-Nano wire for high speed data transfer
September 13, 2015 | transmitter | Comments (0)
We are all familiar with table salt, or sodium chloride (NaCl). This essential, common compound is ordinarily crystalline and brittle in nature. However, many materials behave strangely on the scale of minute quantities, and salt is no exception. Researchers at Boston College have explored tiny sal
[ read more ]
Intestine - Fuel Tank
September 13, 2015 | shape | Comments (0)
This is an unusual example of practical designs found in nature. Automobiles have several new options for fuel including batteries, hydrogen gas, and natural gas. Natural gas is especially attractive because it is in good supply in the U.S., and emits only half the carbon dioxide of conventional fos
[ read more ]
Leave inspire for more flexible robots, grabbers and operation tools
September 13, 2015 | shape | Comments (0)
Many plant blossoms open and close on a daily schedule and slowly follow the sun across the sky. Other plants display more vigorous behavior. The small leaves fold inward in just seconds and then slowly reopen. The active plant grows worldwide and the Latin term pudica means shy, bashful, or shrin
[ read more ]
sorption
September 13, 2015 | sorption | Comments (0)
Sorption is a physical and chemical process by which one substance becomes attached to another. The picture shows Gas–liquid absorption (a) and liquid–solid adsorption (b) mechanism. Blue spheres are solute molecules. Specific cases of sorption are treated in the following articles: -
[ read more ]
Phase transitions
September 13, 2015 | phase transitions | Comments (0)
A phase transition is the transformation of a thermodynamic system from one phase or state of matter to another one by heat transfer. The term is most commonly used to describe transitions between solid, liquid and gaseous states of matter, and, in rare cases, plasma. http://e
[ read more ]
Intestine - Fuel Tank
September 13, 2015 | shape | Comments (0)
This is an unusual example of practical designs found in nature. Automobiles have several new options for fuel including batteries, hydrogen gas, and natural gas. Natural gas is especially attractive because it is in good supply in the U.S., and emits only half the carbon dioxide of conventional fos
[ read more ]
Dolphin-Monofin
September 13, 2015 | speed | Comments (0)
Many sea creatures including dolphins, porpoises, and whales have a tail structure that results in impressive bursts of speed. Their tail fin, called a fluke, is waved back and forth to provide forward motion. Meanwhile, the pectoral and dorsal fins provide directional stability. Dolphins reach spee
[ read more ]
Wild animals (macrosystem) show the same behavior like electrons (microsystem)
September 13, 2015 | flexible cover | Comments (0)
The search for a solution led McRae, now a biologist at the National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis, to his past life as an electrical engineer. He had a hunch that the way animals travel through a landscape might be similar to how electricity moves across circuits. If that were the c
[ read more ]
Alga drive hydrogen vehicles
September 13, 2015 | power | Comments (0)
The biological hydrogen production with algae is a method of photobiological water splitting which is done in a closed photobioreactor based on the production of hydrogen as a solar fuel by algae. Technical application: propellent for cars Bionic application: Further description:
[ read more ]
Insect´s eye for gigapixel cameras
September 13, 2015 | use colors | Comments (0)
Insects have a wide field of view and are acutely sensitive to motion, as anyone who has tried chasing a housefly knows. Researchers have now created a digital camera that mimics the curved, compound structure of an insect eye. These cameras could be used where wide viewing angles are important and
[ read more ]
tree frog climb wet and dirty surfaces as well as upside down surfaces without falling
September 13, 2015 | surface | Comments (0)
Here is an activity to try with a length of adhesive tape. Press the tape against a dusty surface several times. As expected, the tape quickly loses its holding strength as dust particles collect and coat the sticky side. In contrast, consider tree frogs which thrive in dusty, wet, or muddy surround
[ read more ]
the mystical movement of snakes
September 13, 2015 | surface | Comments (0)
Snakes have scales on their belly skin which help them move about. On a flat surface, the body weight is continuously redistributed for maximum friction, and the scales provide grip. Researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology have made detailed studies of the movement of the milk snake. The
[ read more ]
Fuel-cell powered by rust?
September 13, 2015 | surface | Comments (0)
In the quest for the production of renewable and clean energy, photoelectrochemical cells (PECs) constitute a sort of a Holy Grail. Technical application: power train for cars or other vehicles Bionic application: Further description: Physical effects applied: Video: htt
[ read more ]
Spider Web Glass
September 13, 2015 | use colors | Comments (0)
Certain spiders protect their delicately crafted insect nets with a special silk rope that reflects ultraviolet rays. Birds can see the ultraviolet rays and recognize the webs as obstacles they should avoid. If engineers can reproduce the effect, it might save birds from their occasional acci
[ read more ]
Dromedary inspires for seawater-salt removal
September 13, 2015 | surface | Comments (0)
The dromedary camel is at home in the hot Sahara Desert where temperatures can exceed 170°F (77°C). Special features of the camel’s nose allow it conserve precious moisture with each breath. Technical application: seawater-salt removal, desert greening
[ read more ]
Cat's Claw - Safety Thumbtack
September 13, 2015 | self service | Comments (0)
Many of us remember the misfortune of stepping on a thumbtack, sitting on a tack (!), or reaching into a box of thumbtacks and getting pricked. New York design engineer Toshi Fukaya has now found a simple solution to the painful problem. Technical application: spike, tires, grip app
[ read more ]
Razor Clam - Anchor
September 13, 2015 | wet instead of dry | Comments (0)
The razor clam has a long narrow shell, somewhat resembling an old-fashioned straight razor. The shells also have a sharp edge. The clam is hunted for food in exposed mudflats along the ocean shoreline. Its defense against people and predators is an impressive ability to burrow underground rapidly
[ read more ]
Intestine - Fuel Tank
September 13, 2015 | shape | Comments (0)
This is an unusual example of practical designs found in nature. Automobiles have several new options for fuel including batteries, hydrogen gas, and natural gas. Natural gas is especially attractive because it is in good supply in the U.S., and emits only half the carbon dioxide of conventional fos
[ read more ]
Hook fastener with up to 35 tonns / m²
September 13, 2015 | transmitter | Comments (0)
Hook and loop fasteners have become commonplace features of both industry and households. These fasteners are resistant to chemicals and can withstand a tensile load of up to 35 tonnes per square meter at temperatures as high as 800°C. Technical application: Metaklett is basi
[ read more ]
synthetic cloud snows austria
September 13, 2015 | material quantity | Comments (0)
The austrian scientist Michael Bacher presented at TMI before an artificial snow cloud. It produces 15 cubic meters of fresh snow out of one cubic meter of water. Lautenbacher says that the operation of the cloud is much cheaper and more efficient than conventional snow cannons. The cannons would ne
[ read more ]
lizard tail for stabilizers
September 13, 2015 | weight | Comments (0)
Lizards are some of the most versatile animals on the planet. Geckoes for example can climb straight up walls, even across glass ceilings upside down. Their feet have been studied to learn how to make better adhesives. Now, lizards are the subject of a new investigation which includes the dinosaurs.
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walefin for optimized turbines
September 13, 2015 | up/down lift | Comments (0)
The humpback whale has pronounced bumps or tubercles along the leading edge of its pectoral flippers (above left). A idealized model of the flipper (above upper right), which was tested in a wind tunnel, demonstrated that the tubercles enhanced hydrodynamic performance... Technical application:
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Insect´s eye for gigapixel cameras
September 13, 2015 | use colors | Comments (0)
Insects have a wide field of view and are acutely sensitive to motion, as anyone who has tried chasing a housefly knows. Researchers have now created a digital camera that mimics the curved, compound structure of an insect eye. These cameras could be used where wide viewing angles are important and
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Alga drive hydrogen vehicles
September 13, 2015 | power | Comments (0)
The biological hydrogen production with algae is a method of photobiological water splitting which is done in a closed photobioreactor based on the production of hydrogen as a solar fuel by algae. Technical application: propellent for cars Bionic application: Further description:
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stegosaurus plates for innovative wind-turbines
September 13, 2015 | up/down lift | Comments (0)
Thousands of wind turbines have been installed worldwide in recent years for the production of clean electric energy. Efforts continue to make the large turbines efficient and quiet. One successful modification of existing turbine blades is inspired by the stegosaur. Technical applicat
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Shark Skin as an bacteria barrier
September 13, 2015 | surface | Comments (0)
In the sea, a whale’s skin is home to barnacles, algae, and bacteria. In contrast, shark skin is squeaky clean. Parasites appear unable to attach to the shark skin. It is thought that the many small ridges and bumps on the shark’s skin surface discourage attachment. Bacteria prefer to colonize a
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Dog inspired drying machines
September 13, 2015 | weight | Comments (0)
Perhaps you have stood near a wet dog as it dries by shaking its fur. Watch out! An impressive amount of water is thrown off in all directions. The shaking technique for furry creatures including mice, dogs, and bears is studied by researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta. They
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Manta Ray goes beyond air
September 13, 2015 | weight | Comments (0)
Air-ray, modelled on the manta ray, is a remote-controlled hybrid construction consisting of a helium-filled ballonet and a beating wing drive. Its lightweight design enables it to “swim” in the sea of air using the lift from the helium in a similar way to the manta ray in water. &n
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Hook fastener with up to 35 tonns / m²
September 13, 2015 | transmitter | Comments (0)
Hook and loop fasteners have become commonplace features of both industry and households. These fasteners are resistant to chemicals and can withstand a tensile load of up to 35 tonnes per square meter at temperatures as high as 800°C. Technical application: Metaklett is basi
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Morpho butterfly; color without pigments
September 13, 2015 | use colors | Comments (0)
Many morpho butterflies are colored in metallic, shimmering shades of blues and greens. These colors are not a result of pigmentation but are an example of iridescence through structural coloration: the microscopic scales covering the Morpho's wings reflect incident light repeatedly at successive la
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Termites nest for ventilating skyscrapers
September 13, 2015 | temperature | Comments (0)
Termits use a smart way to ventilate their nest. A team of mechanical and civil engineers at Loughborough University, UK, hopes to construct buildings that can create comfortable living conditions by extending our use of renewable f
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