Guiding Philosophy and Goals
Biologically-inspired design focuses on the use of biological processes, organisms and systems as potential sources of innovation solutions for vexing technological or engineering problems. The goal of biologically-inspired design is to understand biological systems in such a way that permits the transference of biological principles to human-built systems. Biological systems are often more efficient than their human engineered analogs, and emphasize materials or processes that participate in natural cycles, which minimize environmental burdens often associated with human manufacturing. The bio-inspired design approach is typified by the recent understanding of physical principles underlying the ability of reptiles and insects to adhere (even upside down) onto surfaces, and the application of these principles to novel, non-toxic and non-pressure based adhesive materials. Thus, biologically-inspired design is an approach clearly distinguishable from domesticating or harvesting natural products. It is contingent on appropriate biological knowledge and appropriate transfer of knowledge to industrial or engineering sectors, and thus depends heavily on inter-disciplinary collaborations between the biological, engineering and the industrial communities. Such collaborations are often fortuitous in spite of the potential benefits. Our goal is to facilitate the collaboration between biological scientists and engineers to encourage innovative solutions that will increase the, efficiency, practicality, and sustainability of human solutions.