Termites build elaborate and highly effective ventilation devices. Swarms of bees communicate without centralized control. Nature works harmoniously all on its own, so why not let it be the primary inspiration for technological design?
This concept is the foundation of biomimicry, the science of using nature as the basis for technological design. AskNature, a project of The Biomimicry Institute, provides fascinating examples of real-world technology inspired by nature.
The Eastgate Centre in Harare, Zimbabwe, was inspired by the efficient cooling methods of termite mounds. This shopping center and office building is passively cooled through thermal mass and ventilation. The structure requires no fuel-based air conditioning, saving building owners $3.5 million in equipment costs alone. Mimicking termites’ efficient use of air shafts and thermal mass to maintain a consistent internal temperature, the Eastgate Centre uses 35% of the energy of similar buildings.
Blue mussels have taught scientists how to make a formaldehyde-free adhesive. In order to attach securely to rocks in rough water, blue mussels produce a sticky protein. By observing the mussel, scientists have produced technology that uses soy protein to mimic this underwater adhesive. Columbia Forest Products now uses this nontoxic adhesive in plywood. This is a major step forward for indoor air quality, as formaldehyde offgassing contributes significantly to the toxin load in homes.
The Biolytics water filter takes its cue from the way microorganisms work together to break down matter in soil. The Biolytics system treats raw sewage, wastewater, and food waste, with the end product of water suitable for irrigation. Solid waste is removed and composted into humus, which then acts as a filter for the water. The Biolytics system uses 90% less energy than other waste treatment methods with no harmful byproducts.
Swarm insects such as ants and bees thrive because they are flexible, resilient, and neither centrally controlled nor locally supervised. Researchers have observed that the third attribute, self-organization, is the basis for the first two. EnviroGrid controllers from REGEN are based on swarm logic technology. The EnviroGrid system connects machinery in a wireless network to promote most efficient electric use, saving businesses 5-10% on their electric costs each year.
Dye solar cell technology was inspired by the process of photosynthesis. This new-generation solar technology replicates photosynthesis in each cell with an electrolyte, a layer of titania, and ruthenium dye. When light hits the dye, the titania absorbs electrons, generating an electric current. Dyesol, a new company dedicated to this technology, opened its pilot production facility in Seong Nam, South Korea, on July 13.
Thunniform swimming fish teach us how to harness power from the ocean. The bioStream tidal power system mimics the movements of tuna, sharks, and mackerel, who swim long distances with efficient and powerful propulsion. The bioStream system is designed to deliver utility-scale renewable energy out of sight beneath the surface of the ocean. BioStream is currently being tested by Hydro Tasmania in Australia.
What’s next? The land snail’s ability to produce a membrane blocking evaporation can help manage water supplies in the desert. Studying the flexible, strong scales of the pangolin might lead to more resilient (and therefore less wasteful) roofing materials. The bull kelp’s suction cups could provide solutions for better load-bearing capabilities and less resource use in construction. There are many nature-based innovations yet to come.
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