What do aircrafts, trains and wetsuits have in common? They are all examples of biomimicry. All of their designs have been inspired by nature.
Biomimicry, seeking inspiration from nature and natural systems, employs nature-inspired innovations to improve modern designs. Through adaptation and evolution, nature has honed its innovations over millions of years, eradicating inefficiencies.
In this article, you can explore 21 striking examples of biomimicry, from applying the physics of birdbeaks in train design to whale fins in wind turbine models. Nature-inspired green innovations!
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8 Examples of Biomimicry in Engineering
Within the realm of engineering marvels lie incredible stories of human ingenuity inspired by the natural world. Below you can find real-world applications of biomimicry that have transformed the engineering landscape.
1. From Birds to Aircrafts
Birds, the masters of the sky, have been soaring gracefully through the heavens for millions of years.
Engineers, captivated by their elegance and efficiency, have unlocked the secrets of avian flight. By closely mimicking the wing structures and flight patterns of birds, they have not only enhanced aircraft efficiency by 50% but also significantly reduced fuel consumption by approximately 80%, according to Airbus.
The result? Eco-friendly air travel that harmonizes with the natural world, marking a pivotal shift in the aerospace industry and being an excellent example of what is possible by applying sustainable business models.
2. From Octopuses to Robotics
Nature’s creatures, honed by millions of years of evolution, have perfected the art of adaptation and efficiency. Biomimicry has harnessed this wealth of knowledge to propel the field of robotics into new frontiers.
From the speed of cheetahs to the dexterity of octopuses, bio-inspired robots are revolutionizing industries across the board. In healthcare, they help to perform delicate surgeries with unparalleled precision; while in manufacturing, they handle intricate tasks with finesse. For example, the automtive industry is using more than 3 million robotic units worldwide.
These biomimetic robots are not only safer and more versatile but also inherently eco-conscious, aligning with nature’s elegant solutions.
3. From Spider Silk to Skyscraper Glass
Materials science, fueled by biomimicry, has unearthed the remarkable properties of spider silk.
Whether it’s architecture, fashion, or even space exploration, biomimicry in materials science is reshaping industries.
From skyscrapers constructed with spider silk-inspired materials to eco-friendly textiles that rival the durability of traditional fabrics, biomimicry is leading us towards a circular economy where we build and design with the elegance and resilience of nature as our guide.
4. From Whale Fins to Wind Turbine Blades
Whales, the ocean’s giants, possess fins with a remarkable secret. Scientists found that the tiny bumps on a whale’s fin reduce drag by 40% and boost lift by 12%.
Applying this wisdom to wind turbine blades enhances their efficiency, resulting in 30% efficiency increases of up to 50%. This means more & cheaper sustainable energy generation, a vital step in our quest for a greener future.
5. From Photosythesis to Solar Panels
Photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy, serves as a remarkable teacher for sustainable energy solutions.
Solar panels inspired by the structure of plant leaves capture sunlight with unprecedented efficiency, providing clean and renewable energy for homes and industries alike.
In the end, these innovations stand at the forefront of the fight against climate change, offering a sustainable energy future. Though, it needs homeowners who realize solar as an opportunity rather than a risk and sustainable leadership to drive the change towards a more sustainable world.
6. From Mangroves to Water Filtration
Nature’s filtration systems, honed over millennia, offer valuable lessons in purifying water. Biomimicry in water filtration systems is transforming the way we access clean drinking water.
By emulating the filtration mechanisms found in organisms like mangrove trees or bivalve mollusks, innovative technologies are removing contaminants from water sources efficiently and sustainably.
Such examples of biomimicry hold the potential to address global water scarcity issues while minimizing the environmental impact.
7. From Kingfisher to High-Speed Trains
The kingfisher, with its precise and swift dives into water, has inspired the design of high-speed trains.
By mimicking the kingfisher’s beak shape, engineers have optimized train designs for aerodynamic efficiency, while solving the prolem of tunnel sonic booms.
Ultimately, these nature-inspired trains not only revolutionize transportation but also contribute to more sustainable and eco-friendly travel options.
8. From Beetle to Water Collection in Deserts
The Stenocara beetle, a desert dweller, has a genius water-collecting design. Its shell’s tiny, smooth bumps channel condensed water into its mouth.
Inspired by this beetle, scientists developed materials that collect water from the air more efficiently. In a world where 22 countries use nets to collect air moisture, this innovation’s efficiency boost can make a significant impact.
9 Examples of Biomimicry in Design and Architecture
In the realm of architecture, biomimicry emerges as a guiding principle, where the wisdom of nature shapes awe-inspiring designs. Examples of biomimicry in architecture are testament to the profound impact nature can have on human creativity.
1. From Termite Mounds to Buildings
One of the most captivating tales of biomimicry in architecture begins with the humble termite mound. These tiny architects have perfected the art of climate control and ventilation, inspiring engineers and architects to replicate their genius in our buildings.
By mirroring the termite’s intricate design, buildings can naturally regulate temperature and humidity, reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. One human building inspired by these principles is the Eastgate Centre in Harare, Zimbabwe. It has a porous surface that helps to store and release heat during the day-to-night cycle, much like a termite mound. This has helped to slash the energy costs of running the building.
The infusion of examples of biomimicry into architecture is not just an aesthetic choice; it’s a leap towards a more sustainable and efficient future.
2. From Bee Hives to Constructions
Bee hives are architectural marvels, and their natural design holds a valuable lesson. The intricate structure inspired engineers to create bio-inspired materials for constructions.
These materials, mirroring the bee hive’s design, have the potential to revolutionize building. They can self-heal like living organisms and reduce waste, offering both sustainability and longevity to our constructed environment.
In fact, change is already happening, as many of the greenest countries are integrating the use of biomimicry in building design into their infrastructure strategies.
3. From Corals to Cement
The quest for sustainable building materials has led us to nature’s treasure trove of solutions.
From bio-inspired concrete that heals itself like living organisms to biodegradable alternatives that reduce waste, examples of biomimicry in sustainable building materials are reshaping the construction industry.
These innovations not only minimize environmental impact but also enhance the resilience and longevity of our built environment.
4. From Natural Water Flow to Sewage Systems
In the face of urbanization’s relentless expansion, urban planners are turning to nature for guidance.
Examples of biomimicry have found their place in urban landscapes, redefining how we design cities for a greener and more sustainable tomorrow.
By mimicking the efficient flow of water in natural ecosystems or creating urban forests that combat pollution, biomimicry in urban planning is breathing life into concrete jungles.
5. From Shark Skin to Swimsuits
Shark skin’s secret lies in its microscopic dermal denticles. These overlapping scales reduce water turbulence, making sharks swift swimmers.
Scientists replicated these denticles in swimsuits and boat hulls. The result? Increased efficiency, less bunker oil consumption for ships, and resistance to bacteria on hospital surfaces. Nature’s innovations extends to both fashion and practicality.
6. From Beaver Fur to Wetsuits
Beavers have a natural way to stay warm and dry in water. Their dense fur traps warm air pockets, keeping them comfortable.
Inspired by this, scientists created fur-like materials for wetsuits. These beaver-inspired wetsuits mimic beavers, providing warmth and dryness for surfers.
Nature’s solutions make a splash in the world of water sports.
7. From Burr to Velcro
Velcro’s genesis can be traced back to a simple yet ingenious natural design. Swiss engineer George de Mestral marveled at burrs that stuck to his dog’s fur during a walk. Intrigued by the tiny hooks on these burrs, he sought to replicate this gripping mechanism.
The result was Velcro, a fastener that transformed industries. Velcro’s hook-and-loop design became ubiquitous, from shoes and clothing to space gear. That way, Velcro has saved countless hours of labor in various applications and significantly improved convenience.
8. From Lotus to Paint
The lotus flower’s micro-rough surface is a masterpiece of natural engineering. It repels dust and dirt particles effortlessly. Under a microscope, the surface reveals countless tiny nail-like protuberances that deter specks of dust.
Inspired by the lotus, a German company, Ispo, developed a paint with similar properties. This paint’s micro-rough surface repels dust and dirt, reducing the need for frequent cleaning.
9. From Fireflies to LEDs
Fireflies have illuminated our nights with their enchanting glow for millenia. Their bioluminescence is a natural wonder, and scientists have harnessed this phenomenon to create Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs).
LEDs have become a revolutionary lighting technology, offering efficiency and longevity. Compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, LEDs use up to 90% less energy and last up to 25 times longer. They’ve not only reduced energy consumption but also played a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions.
In the transition to more sustainable lighting solutions, fireflies’ gentle glow has inspired a transformation in how we illuminate our world, making it brighter and greener.
3 Examples of Biomimicry in Medicine
1. From Mosquitos to Painless Needles
Imagine a world where getting a shot or drawing blood is virtually painless. This idea takes inspiration from mosquitos, those stealthy bloodsuckers that often leave us unaware of their bites. Researchers have proposed a revolutionary concept for microneedles that would mimic the mosquito’s ability to pierce the skin without causing discomfort.
These microneedles, still in the conceptual stage, would feature a soft tip, serrated edge, and the ability to vibrate, much like a mosquito’s proboscis. With these qualities, they could easily and painlessly penetrate the skin.
The potential impact is significant, as painless needles could encourage more people to receive vaccines, donate blood, and undergo routine lab tests they might otherwise avoid.
2. From Cuttlefishes to Smart Skin
Next to having remarkable fish brains, cephalopods, including octopuses, squids, and cuttlefishes, possess extraordinary skin capabilities. They can contort themselves to navigate through narrow spaces and change color to blend into their surroundings. Scientists have harnessed these properties to create artificial skin that can stretch up to 77 times their original length, respond to light, and self-heal in a few minutes.
The applications of this technology are diverse, ranging from camouflage suits for military purposes to advanced prosthetics and adaptive coverings for robotic devices.
3. From Geckos to Sticky Tape
Not all geckos can climb walls, but the ones that can owe their climbing ability to tiny projections on their feet called setae. These hairlike structures create molecular-level bonds with surfaces, allowing geckos to climb even flat structures effortlessly.
Inspired by this natural adhesive, researchers have developed tape with similar tiny projections on its surface. The result is a remarkably strong adhesive that leaves no residue behind, unlike ordinary tape. Beyond everyday applications, this technology has the potential to create shoes and gloves that enable people to scale walls with ease.
Nature’s grip, as seen in geckos, is an excellent example of green innovation in adhesive technology.
