September 15, 2013 (Vol. 33, No. 16)
Rating:
Strong Points: Provides in-depth biological information and practical applications
Weak Points: Some awkward site navigation
Summary:
We can look to nature for inspiration to solve problems that we humans face. For instance, butterflies keep themselves clean without using any energy or detergents via nanoscale structures on their wings. In turn, humans have now mimicked the physical and chemical properties of those structures to create self-cleaning paints and coatings. Many more examples of this type of biomimicry in design and engineering principles can be found at the AskNature website. The purpose of the site is not only to inform people about how biomimicry has already been put to use, but also to inspire designers and engineers to envision new utilities. As such, the site may best be explored via the “How would nature…” search bar, in which users type a keyword, verb or phrase relating to a specific design concept (perhaps something they are trying to create themselves). Nature is bursting with design and engineering ingenuity—go explore for yourself!