Biomimicry: innovations inspired by nature
LED lights were discovered to have a 50% increase in light extraction by applying a jagged overlayer similar to scales on lightening bug abdomens.
Velcro was inspired by burrs, which attach themselves to animals' fur to disperse seeds using microscopic hooks.
Sharkskin swimsuits were inspired by slick shark skin to reduce swimmers' drag in water.
The form of the Japanese Shinkansen bullet train was inspired by the shape of the Kingfisher bird's head.
Wind turbines were inspired by the form and bumps of humpback whale flippers.
Water purification systems took inspiration from mangroves ability to extract fresh water from seawater.
This is a short list of biomimicry design examples.
Nature has been iterating on design for billions of years, improving forms and functions through relentless trial and error. Not every problem or product may benefit from biomimicry, but it can be a powerful tool for innovation beyond sustainability.
