Bio-Mimicry/Emergence

One common example of biomimicry is Velcro.  Velcro was designed by a engineer who took a close look at the burdock burrs that clung to his clothes after a walk in the woods and noticed the tiny hooks on the burrs that attached to the fibers of his clothing. More about Velcro at this link.

Birds have long been the inspiration for humans when designing airplanes.  Here the fast flying falcon may have influenced the design of the swift B2 bomber. Their sleek profile and aerodynamic lines make them both efficient flyers. More information about peregrine falcon flight here.

The structure of lotus leaves (or lily pads) helps them keep their surfaces clean and dry.  There are microscopic folds and wax crystals on the surface of the leaves that help them repel water and dirt particles.  Lessons from this plant can help researchers make self-cleaning paint, glass and clothing.  More about lotus leaves here.

Even though mussels live in wet environments, they are able to stick themselves to solid objects so that they are not carried away by the tide or waves.  The sticky fibers that they use are the inspiration for scientists to develop glue that can be effective in wet conditions.  More about mussels here.