Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
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Introduction to Biomimetics:
The Wealth of Inventions in Nature
as an Inspiration for Human Innovation
Yoseph Bar-Cohen
CONTENTS
1.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................................................ 2
1.2 Mimicking and Inspiration of Nature..................................................................................................... 4
1.2.1 Synthetic Life ............................................................................................................................ 6
1.3 Artificial Life .......................................................................................................................................... 7
1.4 Artificial Intelligence.............................................................................................................................. 8
1.5 Nature as a Model for Structures and Tools ..........................................................................................9
1.5.1 Constructing Structures from Cells........................................................................................... 9
1.5.2 Biologically Inspired Mechanisms ......................................................................................... 10
1.5.2.1 Digging as the Gopher and the Crab ...................................................................... 10
1.5.2.2 Inchworm Motors.................................................................................................... 11
1.5.2.3 Pumping Mechanisms ............................................................................................. 12
1.5.2.4 Controlled Adhesion ............................................................................................... 13
1.5.2.5 Biological Clock ..................................................................................................... 13
1.5.3 Biologically Inspired Structures and Parts ............................................................................. 13
1.5.3.1 Honeycomb as a Strong, Lightweight Structure..................................................... 13
1.5.3.2 Hand Fan ................................................................................................................. 13
1.5.3.3 Fishing Nets and Screens ........................................................................................ 15
1.5.3.4 Fins .......................................................................................................................... 15
1.5.4 Defense and Attack Mechanisms in Biology ......................................................................... 16
1.5.4.1 Camouflage.............................................................................................................. 16
1.5.4.2 Body Armor ............................................................................................................ 16
1.5.4.3 Hooks, Pins, Sting, Syringe, Barb, and the Spear .................................................. 17
1.5.4.4 Decoy ...................................................................................................................... 18
1.5.5 Artificial Organs...................................................................................................................... 19
1.6 Materials and Processes in Biology ..................................................................................................... 19
1.6.1 Spider Web — Strong Fibers.................................................................................................. 20
1.6.2 Honeybee as a Multiple Materials Producer........................................................................... 21
1.6.3
Swallow as a Clay and Composite Materials Producer.......................................................... 21
1.6.4
Fluorescence Materials in Fireflies and Road Signs............................................................... 21
1.6.5
Impact Sensitive Paint Mimicking Bruised Skin.................................................................... 22
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