🔬Biomimetics Research Papers

“Nature does nothing in vain.”

Aristotle

Journal of Form & Function, 2008

Hierarchical surface roughness in the sacred lotus and its application to self-cleaning coatings

Jiwon Han, Tomáš Moreau, Jonas Alvarez, Chinedu Bianchi - Department of Mechanical Engineering, Hanbit Institute of Technology

The sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) shows hierarchical surface roughness. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 3 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 2:1 scale. The model reproduced 41% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to self-cleaning coatings, the design reduced material use by 32% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

Living Structures Letters, 2023

Golden-angle phyllotaxis in the common sunflower and its application to heliostat field layout

Chinedu Dubois, Farhan Silva - School of Biological Sciences, University of Northfield

The common sunflower (Helianthus annuus) shows golden-angle phyllotaxis. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 10 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 5:1 scale. The model reproduced 63% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to heliostat field layout, the design reduced material use by 30% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

• Journal of Form & Function, 2008

  Hierarchical surface roughness in the sacred lotus and its application to self-cleaning coatings

  Jiwon Han, Tomáš Moreau, Jonas Alvarez, Chinedu Bianchi - Department of Mechanical Engineering, Hanbit Institute of Technology

  The sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) shows hierarchical surface roughness. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 3 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 2:1 scale. The model reproduced 41% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to self-cleaning coatings, the design reduced material use by 32% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Plants
  • Wettability
  • Surface Properties
  • Coatings
  • Wax
  • Biomimetics
  Nelumbo nuciferaSacred Lotus

• Interface Morphology, 2015

  Passive mound ventilation in the mound-building termite and its application to low-energy building cooling

  Camille Seo, Marta Rahman, Doyun Nakamura, Haruto Fischer, Aoi Kang - School of Biological Sciences, University of Northfield

  The mound-building termite (Macrotermes michaelseni) shows passive mound ventilation. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 4 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 3:1 scale. The model reproduced 67% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to low-energy building cooling, the design reduced material use by 31% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Isoptera
  • Ventilation
  • Thermoregulation
  • Architecture
  • Biomimetics
  Macrotermes michaelseniMound-building Termite

• Surface & Structure Review, 2022

  Nacre tablet sliding in the red abalone and its application to tough layered ceramics

  Lucía Kowalski, Ama Osei, Jiwon Iyer, Tomáš Haddad, Jonas Lindqvist - Laboratory of Biomimetic Materials, Aster Polytechnic

  The red abalone (Haliotis rufescens) shows nacre tablet sliding. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 5 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 4:1 scale. The model reproduced 84% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to tough layered ceramics, the design reduced material use by 13% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Mollusca
  • Calcium Carbonate
  • Fracture Toughness
  • Composites
  • Biomimetics
  Haliotis rufescensRed Abalone

• Open Biomimetics Reports, 2012

  Ultraviolet-reflective web decorations in the yellow garden spider and its application to bird-safe glazing

  Giulia Dubois, Priya Silva, Camille Okafor, Marta Tanaka, Doyun Novak - Institute of Fluid Dynamics, Westmoor University

  The yellow garden spider (Argiope aurantia) shows ultraviolet-reflective web decorations. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 6 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 5:1 scale. The model reproduced 35% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to bird-safe glazing, the design reduced material use by 18% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Araneae
  • Ultraviolet Rays
  • Birds
  • Glass
  • Biomimetics
  Argiope aurantiaYellow Garden Spider

• Transactions on Biological Design, 2019

  Patterned wettability on the elytra in the namib desert beetle and its application to fog water harvesting

  Seojun Han, Nour Moreau, Lucía Alvarez, Ama Bianchi, Jiwon Park - Department of Materials Science, Seoyeon University

  The namib desert beetle (Stenocara gracilipes) shows patterned wettability on the elytra. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 7 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 2:1 scale. The model reproduced 24% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to fog water harvesting, the design reduced material use by 25% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Coleoptera
  • Water
  • Wettability
  • Desert Climate
  • Biomimetics
  Stenocara gracilipesNamib Desert Beetle

• Biomechanics Quarterly, 2009

  Multi-layer cranial shock absorption in the red-bellied woodpecker and its application to impact-resistant electronics housings

  Léa Seo, Elin Rahman - Centre for Bio-inspired Design, Coastline University

  The red-bellied woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus) shows multi-layer cranial shock absorption. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 8 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 3:1 scale. The model reproduced 25% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to impact-resistant electronics housings, the design reduced material use by 37% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Birds
  • Head
  • Shock Absorption
  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Biomimetics
  Melanerpes carolinusRed-bellied Woodpecker

• Studies in Natural Engineering, 2016

  DOPA-mediated wet adhesion in the blue mussel and its application to surgical tissue adhesives

  Rafael Kowalski, Minseo Osei, Seojun Iyer, Nour Haddad, Lucía Lindqvist - Department of Mechanical Engineering, Hanbit Institute of Technology

  The blue mussel (Mytilus edulis) shows DOPA-mediated wet adhesion. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 9 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 4:1 scale. The model reproduced 77% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to surgical tissue adhesives, the design reduced material use by 40% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Bivalvia
  • Adhesives
  • Proteins
  • Wound Healing
  • Biomimetics
  Mytilus edulisBlue Mussel

• Living Structures Letters, 2023

  Golden-angle phyllotaxis in the common sunflower and its application to heliostat field layout

  Chinedu Dubois, Farhan Silva - School of Biological Sciences, University of Northfield

  The common sunflower (Helianthus annuus) shows golden-angle phyllotaxis. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 10 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 5:1 scale. The model reproduced 63% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to heliostat field layout, the design reduced material use by 30% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Plants
  • Solar Energy
  • Optimization
  • Geometry
  • Biomimetics
  Helianthus annuusCommon Sunflower

• Applied Natural Systems, 2013

  Carapace-induced vortex flow in the yellow boxfish and its application to low-drag vehicle bodies

  Haruto Han, Aoi Moreau - Laboratory of Biomimetic Materials, Aster Polytechnic

  The yellow boxfish (Ostracion cubicus) shows carapace-induced vortex flow. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 11 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 2:1 scale. The model reproduced 82% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to low-drag vehicle bodies, the design reduced material use by 13% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Fishes
  • Hydrodynamics
  • Drag
  • Vehicles
  • Biomimetics
  Ostracion cubicusYellow Boxfish

• Hanbit Journal of Biomimetics, 2020

  Frequency-modulated echolocation in the little brown bat and its application to ultrasonic mobility aids

  Tomáš Seo, Jonas Rahman, Chinedu Nakamura, Farhan Fischer, Léa Kang - Institute of Fluid Dynamics, Westmoor University

  The little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus) shows frequency-modulated echolocation. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 3 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 3:1 scale. The model reproduced 30% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to ultrasonic mobility aids, the design reduced material use by 11% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Chiroptera
  • Echolocation
  • Ultrasonics
  • Visual Impairment
  • Biomimetics
  Myotis lucifugusLittle Brown Bat

• Journal of Form & Function, 2010

  Sub-wavelength corneal nipple arrays in the tobacco hawkmoth and its application to anti-reflective films

  Marta Kowalski, Doyun Osei, Haruto Iyer, Aoi Haddad - Department of Materials Science, Seoyeon University

  The tobacco hawkmoth (Manduca sexta) shows sub-wavelength corneal nipple arrays. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 4 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 4:1 scale. The model reproduced 72% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to anti-reflective films, the design reduced material use by 45% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Lepidoptera
  • Optics
  • Nanostructures
  • Reflection
  • Biomimetics
  Manduca sextaTobacco Hawkmoth

• Interface Morphology, 2017

  Autorotating samara descent in the sycamore maple and its application to passive airborne sensors

  Ama Dubois, Jiwon Silva, Tomáš Okafor, Jonas Tanaka, Chinedu Novak - Centre for Bio-inspired Design, Coastline University

  The sycamore maple (Acer pseudoplatanus) shows autorotating samara descent. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 5 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 5:1 scale. The model reproduced 79% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to passive airborne sensors, the design reduced material use by 40% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Plants
  • Seeds
  • Aerodynamics
  • Sensors
  • Biomimetics
  Acer pseudoplatanusSycamore Maple

• Surface & Structure Review, 2024

  Vein-reinforced wing membranes in the emperor dragonfly and its application to crack-arresting thin films

  Priya Han, Camille Moreau - Department of Mechanical Engineering, Hanbit Institute of Technology

  The emperor dragonfly (Anax imperator) shows vein-reinforced wing membranes. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 6 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 2:1 scale. The model reproduced 44% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to crack-arresting thin films, the design reduced material use by 16% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Odonata
  • Wings, Animal
  • Membranes
  • Fracture
  • Biomimetics
  Anax imperatorEmperor Dragonfly

• Open Biomimetics Reports, 2014

  Passive energy recapture in bell pulsation in the moon jellyfish and its application to efficient underwater propulsion

  Nour Seo, Lucía Rahman, Ama Nakamura, Jiwon Fischer - School of Biological Sciences, University of Northfield

  The moon jellyfish (Aurelia aurita) shows passive energy recapture in bell pulsation. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 7 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 3:1 scale. The model reproduced 47% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to efficient underwater propulsion, the design reduced material use by 22% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Scyphozoa
  • Swimming
  • Energy Metabolism
  • Robotics
  • Biomimetics
  Aurelia auritaMoon Jellyfish

• Transactions on Biological Design, 2021

  Graded fibre distribution in culms in the moso bamboo and its application to lightweight structural columns

  Elin Kowalski, Giulia Osei, Priya Iyer, Camille Haddad, Marta Lindqvist - Laboratory of Biomimetic Materials, Aster Polytechnic

  The moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) shows graded fibre distribution in culms. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 8 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 4:1 scale. The model reproduced 42% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to lightweight structural columns, the design reduced material use by 45% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Poaceae
  • Fibers
  • Elasticity
  • Construction Materials
  • Biomimetics
  Phyllostachys edulisMoso Bamboo

• Biomechanics Quarterly, 2011

  A sacred lotus-inspired approach to self-cleaning coatings

  Minseo Dubois, Seojun Silva, Nour Okafor, Lucía Tanaka - Institute of Fluid Dynamics, Westmoor University

  The sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) shows hierarchical surface roughness. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 9 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 5:1 scale. The model reproduced 34% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to self-cleaning coatings, the design reduced material use by 28% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Plants
  • Wettability
  • Surface Properties
  • Coatings
  • Wax
  • Biomimetics
  Nelumbo nuciferaSacred Lotus

• Studies in Natural Engineering, 2018

  A mound-building termite-inspired approach to low-energy building cooling

  Farhan Han, Léa Moreau, Elin Alvarez, Giulia Bianchi - Department of Materials Science, Seoyeon University

  The mound-building termite (Macrotermes michaelseni) shows passive mound ventilation. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 10 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 2:1 scale. The model reproduced 49% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to low-energy building cooling, the design reduced material use by 22% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Isoptera
  • Ventilation
  • Thermoregulation
  • Architecture
  • Biomimetics
  Macrotermes michaelseniMound-building Termite

• Living Structures Letters, 2008

  A red abalone-inspired approach to tough layered ceramics

  Aoi Seo, Rafael Rahman, Minseo Nakamura, Seojun Fischer, Nour Kang - Centre for Bio-inspired Design, Coastline University

  The red abalone (Haliotis rufescens) shows nacre tablet sliding. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 11 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 3:1 scale. The model reproduced 62% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to tough layered ceramics, the design reduced material use by 24% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Mollusca
  • Calcium Carbonate
  • Fracture Toughness
  • Composites
  • Biomimetics
  Haliotis rufescensRed Abalone

• Applied Natural Systems, 2015

  A yellow garden spider-inspired approach to bird-safe glazing

  Jonas Kowalski, Chinedu Osei, Farhan Iyer, Léa Haddad - Department of Mechanical Engineering, Hanbit Institute of Technology

  The yellow garden spider (Argiope aurantia) shows ultraviolet-reflective web decorations. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 3 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 4:1 scale. The model reproduced 61% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to bird-safe glazing, the design reduced material use by 26% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Araneae
  • Ultraviolet Rays
  • Birds
  • Glass
  • Biomimetics
  Argiope aurantiaYellow Garden Spider

• Hanbit Journal of Biomimetics, 2022

  A namib desert beetle-inspired approach to fog water harvesting

  Doyun Dubois, Haruto Silva, Aoi Okafor, Rafael Tanaka - School of Biological Sciences, University of Northfield

  The namib desert beetle (Stenocara gracilipes) shows patterned wettability on the elytra. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 4 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 5:1 scale. The model reproduced 37% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to fog water harvesting, the design reduced material use by 13% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Coleoptera
  • Water
  • Wettability
  • Desert Climate
  • Biomimetics
  Stenocara gracilipesNamib Desert Beetle

• Journal of Form & Function, 2012

  A red-bellied woodpecker-inspired approach to impact-resistant electronics housings

  Jiwon Han, Tomáš Moreau, Jonas Alvarez, Chinedu Bianchi - Laboratory of Biomimetic Materials, Aster Polytechnic

  The red-bellied woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus) shows multi-layer cranial shock absorption. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 5 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 2:1 scale. The model reproduced 57% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to impact-resistant electronics housings, the design reduced material use by 28% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Birds
  • Head
  • Shock Absorption
  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Biomimetics
  Melanerpes carolinusRed-bellied Woodpecker

• Interface Morphology, 2019

  A blue mussel-inspired approach to surgical tissue adhesives

  Camille Seo, Marta Rahman, Doyun Nakamura - Institute of Fluid Dynamics, Westmoor University

  The blue mussel (Mytilus edulis) shows DOPA-mediated wet adhesion. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 6 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 3:1 scale. The model reproduced 52% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to surgical tissue adhesives, the design reduced material use by 13% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Bivalvia
  • Adhesives
  • Proteins
  • Wound Healing
  • Biomimetics
  Mytilus edulisBlue Mussel

• Surface & Structure Review, 2009

  A common sunflower-inspired approach to heliostat field layout

  Lucía Kowalski, Ama Osei, Jiwon Iyer, Tomáš Haddad, Jonas Lindqvist - Department of Materials Science, Seoyeon University

  The common sunflower (Helianthus annuus) shows golden-angle phyllotaxis. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 7 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 4:1 scale. The model reproduced 34% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to heliostat field layout, the design reduced material use by 15% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Plants
  • Solar Energy
  • Optimization
  • Geometry
  • Biomimetics
  Helianthus annuusCommon Sunflower

• Open Biomimetics Reports, 2016

  A yellow boxfish-inspired approach to low-drag vehicle bodies

  Giulia Dubois, Priya Silva, Camille Okafor, Marta Tanaka, Doyun Novak - Centre for Bio-inspired Design, Coastline University

  The yellow boxfish (Ostracion cubicus) shows carapace-induced vortex flow. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 8 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 5:1 scale. The model reproduced 62% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to low-drag vehicle bodies, the design reduced material use by 35% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Fishes
  • Hydrodynamics
  • Drag
  • Vehicles
  • Biomimetics
  Ostracion cubicusYellow Boxfish

• Transactions on Biological Design, 2023

  A little brown bat-inspired approach to ultrasonic mobility aids

  Seojun Han, Nour Moreau, Lucía Alvarez, Ama Bianchi, Jiwon Park - Department of Mechanical Engineering, Hanbit Institute of Technology

  The little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus) shows frequency-modulated echolocation. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 9 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 2:1 scale. The model reproduced 37% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to ultrasonic mobility aids, the design reduced material use by 29% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Chiroptera
  • Echolocation
  • Ultrasonics
  • Visual Impairment
  • Biomimetics
  Myotis lucifugusLittle Brown Bat

• Biomechanics Quarterly, 2013

  A tobacco hawkmoth-inspired approach to anti-reflective films

  Léa Seo, Elin Rahman, Giulia Nakamura - School of Biological Sciences, University of Northfield

  The tobacco hawkmoth (Manduca sexta) shows sub-wavelength corneal nipple arrays. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 10 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 3:1 scale. The model reproduced 64% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to anti-reflective films, the design reduced material use by 37% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Lepidoptera
  • Optics
  • Nanostructures
  • Reflection
  • Biomimetics
  Manduca sextaTobacco Hawkmoth

• Studies in Natural Engineering, 2020

  A sycamore maple-inspired approach to passive airborne sensors

  Rafael Kowalski, Minseo Osei - Laboratory of Biomimetic Materials, Aster Polytechnic

  The sycamore maple (Acer pseudoplatanus) shows autorotating samara descent. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 11 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 4:1 scale. The model reproduced 33% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to passive airborne sensors, the design reduced material use by 35% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Plants
  • Seeds
  • Aerodynamics
  • Sensors
  • Biomimetics
  Acer pseudoplatanusSycamore Maple

• Living Structures Letters, 2010

  A emperor dragonfly-inspired approach to crack-arresting thin films

  Chinedu Dubois, Farhan Silva - Institute of Fluid Dynamics, Westmoor University

  The emperor dragonfly (Anax imperator) shows vein-reinforced wing membranes. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 3 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 5:1 scale. The model reproduced 40% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to crack-arresting thin films, the design reduced material use by 41% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Odonata
  • Wings, Animal
  • Membranes
  • Fracture
  • Biomimetics
  Anax imperatorEmperor Dragonfly

• Applied Natural Systems, 2017

  A moon jellyfish-inspired approach to efficient underwater propulsion

  Haruto Han, Aoi Moreau, Rafael Alvarez, Minseo Bianchi, Seojun Park - Department of Materials Science, Seoyeon University

  The moon jellyfish (Aurelia aurita) shows passive energy recapture in bell pulsation. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 4 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 2:1 scale. The model reproduced 50% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to efficient underwater propulsion, the design reduced material use by 25% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Scyphozoa
  • Swimming
  • Energy Metabolism
  • Robotics
  • Biomimetics
  Aurelia auritaMoon Jellyfish

• Hanbit Journal of Biomimetics, 2024

  A moso bamboo-inspired approach to lightweight structural columns

  Tomáš Seo, Jonas Rahman, Chinedu Nakamura, Farhan Fischer - Centre for Bio-inspired Design, Coastline University

  The moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) shows graded fibre distribution in culms. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 5 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 3:1 scale. The model reproduced 38% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to lightweight structural columns, the design reduced material use by 22% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Poaceae
  • Fibers
  • Elasticity
  • Construction Materials
  • Biomimetics
  Phyllostachys edulisMoso Bamboo

• Journal of Form & Function, 2014

  Quantifying hierarchical surface roughness of Nelumbo nucifera for self-cleaning coatings

  Marta Kowalski, Doyun Osei, Haruto Iyer, Aoi Haddad, Rafael Lindqvist - Department of Mechanical Engineering, Hanbit Institute of Technology

  The sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) shows hierarchical surface roughness. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 6 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 1:1 scale. The model reproduced 40% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to self-cleaning coatings, the design reduced material use by 34% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Plants
  • Wettability
  • Surface Properties
  • Coatings
  • Wax
  • Biomimetics
  Nelumbo nuciferaSacred Lotus

• Interface Morphology, 2021

  Quantifying passive mound ventilation of Macrotermes michaelseni for low-energy building cooling

  Ama Dubois, Jiwon Silva - School of Biological Sciences, University of Northfield

  The mound-building termite (Macrotermes michaelseni) shows passive mound ventilation. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 7 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 1:1 scale. The model reproduced 81% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to low-energy building cooling, the design reduced material use by 37% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Isoptera
  • Ventilation
  • Thermoregulation
  • Architecture
  • Biomimetics
  Macrotermes michaelseniMound-building Termite

• Surface & Structure Review, 2011

  Quantifying nacre tablet sliding of Haliotis rufescens for tough layered ceramics

  Priya Han, Camille Moreau, Marta Alvarez - Laboratory of Biomimetic Materials, Aster Polytechnic

  The red abalone (Haliotis rufescens) shows nacre tablet sliding. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 8 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 1:1 scale. The model reproduced 32% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to tough layered ceramics, the design reduced material use by 43% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Mollusca
  • Calcium Carbonate
  • Fracture Toughness
  • Composites
  • Biomimetics
  Haliotis rufescensRed Abalone

• Open Biomimetics Reports, 2018

  Quantifying ultraviolet-reflective web decorations of Argiope aurantia for bird-safe glazing

  Nour Seo, Lucía Rahman, Ama Nakamura - Institute of Fluid Dynamics, Westmoor University

  The yellow garden spider (Argiope aurantia) shows ultraviolet-reflective web decorations. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 9 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 1:1 scale. The model reproduced 35% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to bird-safe glazing, the design reduced material use by 28% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Araneae
  • Ultraviolet Rays
  • Birds
  • Glass
  • Biomimetics
  Argiope aurantiaYellow Garden Spider

• Transactions on Biological Design, 2008

  Quantifying patterned wettability on the elytra of Stenocara gracilipes for fog water harvesting

  Elin Kowalski, Giulia Osei, Priya Iyer, Camille Haddad, Marta Lindqvist - Department of Materials Science, Seoyeon University

  The namib desert beetle (Stenocara gracilipes) shows patterned wettability on the elytra. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 10 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 1:1 scale. The model reproduced 45% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to fog water harvesting, the design reduced material use by 10% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Coleoptera
  • Water
  • Wettability
  • Desert Climate
  • Biomimetics
  Stenocara gracilipesNamib Desert Beetle

• Biomechanics Quarterly, 2015

  Quantifying multi-layer cranial shock absorption of Melanerpes carolinus for impact-resistant electronics housings

  Minseo Dubois, Seojun Silva, Nour Okafor - Centre for Bio-inspired Design, Coastline University

  The red-bellied woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus) shows multi-layer cranial shock absorption. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 11 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 1:1 scale. The model reproduced 28% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to impact-resistant electronics housings, the design reduced material use by 50% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Birds
  • Head
  • Shock Absorption
  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Biomimetics
  Melanerpes carolinusRed-bellied Woodpecker

• Studies in Natural Engineering, 2022

  Quantifying DOPA-mediated wet adhesion of Mytilus edulis for surgical tissue adhesives

  Farhan Han, Léa Moreau, Elin Alvarez - Department of Mechanical Engineering, Hanbit Institute of Technology

  The blue mussel (Mytilus edulis) shows DOPA-mediated wet adhesion. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 3 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 1:1 scale. The model reproduced 60% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to surgical tissue adhesives, the design reduced material use by 34% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Bivalvia
  • Adhesives
  • Proteins
  • Wound Healing
  • Biomimetics
  Mytilus edulisBlue Mussel

• Living Structures Letters, 2012

  Quantifying golden-angle phyllotaxis of Helianthus annuus for heliostat field layout

  Aoi Seo, Rafael Rahman, Minseo Nakamura, Seojun Fischer, Nour Kang - School of Biological Sciences, University of Northfield

  The common sunflower (Helianthus annuus) shows golden-angle phyllotaxis. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 4 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 1:1 scale. The model reproduced 70% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to heliostat field layout, the design reduced material use by 49% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Plants
  • Solar Energy
  • Optimization
  • Geometry
  • Biomimetics
  Helianthus annuusCommon Sunflower

• Applied Natural Systems, 2019

  Quantifying carapace-induced vortex flow of Ostracion cubicus for low-drag vehicle bodies

  Jonas Kowalski, Chinedu Osei, Farhan Iyer - Laboratory of Biomimetic Materials, Aster Polytechnic

  The yellow boxfish (Ostracion cubicus) shows carapace-induced vortex flow. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 5 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 1:1 scale. The model reproduced 36% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to low-drag vehicle bodies, the design reduced material use by 30% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Fishes
  • Hydrodynamics
  • Drag
  • Vehicles
  • Biomimetics
  Ostracion cubicusYellow Boxfish

• Hanbit Journal of Biomimetics, 2009

  Quantifying frequency-modulated echolocation of Myotis lucifugus for ultrasonic mobility aids

  Doyun Dubois, Haruto Silva, Aoi Okafor - Institute of Fluid Dynamics, Westmoor University

  The little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus) shows frequency-modulated echolocation. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 6 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 1:1 scale. The model reproduced 75% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to ultrasonic mobility aids, the design reduced material use by 30% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Chiroptera
  • Echolocation
  • Ultrasonics
  • Visual Impairment
  • Biomimetics
  Myotis lucifugusLittle Brown Bat

• Journal of Form & Function, 2016

  Quantifying sub-wavelength corneal nipple arrays of Manduca sexta for anti-reflective films

  Jiwon Han, Tomáš Moreau, Jonas Alvarez, Chinedu Bianchi, Farhan Park - Department of Materials Science, Seoyeon University

  The tobacco hawkmoth (Manduca sexta) shows sub-wavelength corneal nipple arrays. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 7 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 1:1 scale. The model reproduced 75% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to anti-reflective films, the design reduced material use by 30% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Lepidoptera
  • Optics
  • Nanostructures
  • Reflection
  • Biomimetics
  Manduca sextaTobacco Hawkmoth

• Interface Morphology, 2023

  Quantifying autorotating samara descent of Acer pseudoplatanus for passive airborne sensors

  Camille Seo, Marta Rahman, Doyun Nakamura, Haruto Fischer, Aoi Kang - Centre for Bio-inspired Design, Coastline University

  The sycamore maple (Acer pseudoplatanus) shows autorotating samara descent. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 8 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 1:1 scale. The model reproduced 47% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to passive airborne sensors, the design reduced material use by 33% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Plants
  • Seeds
  • Aerodynamics
  • Sensors
  • Biomimetics
  Acer pseudoplatanusSycamore Maple

• Surface & Structure Review, 2013

  Quantifying vein-reinforced wing membranes of Anax imperator for crack-arresting thin films

  Lucía Kowalski, Ama Osei, Jiwon Iyer, Tomáš Haddad, Jonas Lindqvist - Department of Mechanical Engineering, Hanbit Institute of Technology

  The emperor dragonfly (Anax imperator) shows vein-reinforced wing membranes. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 9 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 1:1 scale. The model reproduced 52% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to crack-arresting thin films, the design reduced material use by 24% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Odonata
  • Wings, Animal
  • Membranes
  • Fracture
  • Biomimetics
  Anax imperatorEmperor Dragonfly

• Open Biomimetics Reports, 2020

  Quantifying passive energy recapture in bell pulsation of Aurelia aurita for efficient underwater propulsion

  Giulia Dubois, Priya Silva, Camille Okafor, Marta Tanaka - School of Biological Sciences, University of Northfield

  The moon jellyfish (Aurelia aurita) shows passive energy recapture in bell pulsation. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 10 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 1:1 scale. The model reproduced 83% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to efficient underwater propulsion, the design reduced material use by 45% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Scyphozoa
  • Swimming
  • Energy Metabolism
  • Robotics
  • Biomimetics
  Aurelia auritaMoon Jellyfish

• Transactions on Biological Design, 2010

  Quantifying graded fibre distribution in culms of Phyllostachys edulis for lightweight structural columns

  Seojun Han, Nour Moreau - Laboratory of Biomimetic Materials, Aster Polytechnic

  The moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) shows graded fibre distribution in culms. Earlier descriptions of this feature relied on still images, so the forces and time scales involved were not measured directly. We measured this feature in 11 specimens using micro-CT imaging and force sensors, and built a physical model at 1:1 scale. The model reproduced 37% of the measured response under laboratory conditions. Applied to lightweight structural columns, the design reduced material use by 24% compared with a reference part of equal performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that feature spacing and layer stiffness explained most of the variation between specimens, while overall size had little effect. We discuss which parameters transfer to engineered systems and which depend on living tissue, and list three design rules for prototypes at centimetre scale.

  • Poaceae
  • Fibers
  • Elasticity
  • Construction Materials
  • Biomimetics
  Phyllostachys edulisMoso Bamboo