278 - Biomimetics Report Final Version

GLOBAL WATCH MISSION REPORT
Biomimetics: strategies for product design inspired by nature a mission to the Netherlands and Germany
JANUARY 2007
Global Watch Missions DTI Global Watch Missions have enabled small groups of UK experts to visit leading overseas technology organisations to learn vital lessons about innovation and its implementation, of benefit to entire industries and individual organisations. By stimulating debate and informing industrial thinking and action, missions have offered unique opportunities for fast-tracking technology transfer, sharing deployment know-how, explaining new industry infrastructures and policies, and developing relationships and collaborations. Disclaimer This report represents the findings of a mission organised by Thoughtcrew Ltd on behalf of Faraday Packaging Partnership (FPP) with the support of DTI. Views expressed reflect a consensus reached by the members of the mission team and do not necessarily reflect those of the organisations to which the mission members belong, Thoughtcrew Ltd, FPP , Pera or DTI. Comments attributed to organisations visited during this mission were those expressed by personnel interviewed and should not be taken as those of the organisation as a whole. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided in this report is accurate and up to date, DTI accepts no responsibility whatsoever in relation to this information. DTI shall not be liable for any loss of profits or contracts or any direct, indirect, special or consequential loss or damages whether in contract, tort or otherwise, arising out of or in connection with your use of this information. This disclaimer shall apply to the maximum extent permissible by law.
Cover image: Glass sponge (Euplectella) skeleton, formed by silica spicules that unite into complex geometric structures (Ken M Highfill/Science Photo Library)
Biomimetics: strategies for product design inspired by nature

a mission to the Netherlands and Germany
REPORT OF A DTI GLOBAL WATCH MISSION JANUARY 2007
BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 2 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 3 INTRODUCTION Background Mission aims Objectives Coordinating body Mission location Mission participants BACKGROUND TO BIOMIMETICS Introduction Flight Architecture Textiles Typical topics Information retrieval EXAMPLES OF BIOMIMETIC APPLICATIONS: BIOLOGICALLY INSPIRED PACKAGING
4 5 5 5 6 6 6 7 8 8 9 10 11 11 11 13
3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4
Introduction Objective Biomimetics in packaging Industrial mission delegates and biomimetics 3.4.1 ColepCCL, Laupheim, Germany 3.4.2 COSi Creative Outsourcing Solutions International, UK 3.4.3 Procter & Gamble/Gillette, Reading, UK 3.5 Applications and opportunities in biomimetic packaging encountered during the mission 3.5.1 Philips, Eindhoven, the Netherlands 3.5.2 DEAM University of Delft, the Netherlands 2
13 13 13 13 13 13 14 14
University of Groningen, 14 the Netherlands University of Cambridge, UK 3.5.4 Institute for Textile 15 Technology and Process Engineering (ITV Denkendorf), Germany 3.5.5 DaimlerChrysler Research 16 and Technology, Ulm, Germany 3.5.6 Max Planck Institute for 16 Metals Research, Evolutionary Biomaterials Group, Stuttgart, Germany 3.5.7 University of Freiburg, 17 Plant Biomechanics Group, Germany 3.5.8 Max Planck Institute of 17 Colloids and Interfaces, Potsdam, Berlin, Germany 3.5.9 BIOKON/EvoLogics GmbH, 18 F&E Labor Bionik, Berlin, Germany 3.5.10 University of Applied 18 Sciences, MagdeburgStendal, Germany 3.5.11 Dr Mirtsch GmbH, Teltow, 19 Berlin, Germany 3.5.12 INPRO, Berlin, Germany 19 3.6 Summary 19 3.7 Conclusions 20 4 APPLICATION OF BIOMIMETICS IN OTHER INDUSTRIES Introduction Architecture Automotive Healthcare Dry adhesives Discussion Samples of biomimetics related to industry 21
3.5.3
14 14
4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7
21 21 21 23 23 24 24
4.7 .1 4.7 .2 4.7 .3 4.7 .4 4.7 .5 4.7 .6 4.7 .7 5
Steerable endoscope Adaptive braided bag filter Fin ray Acoustic camera Bionic propeller Plants as concept generators Self-healing structures
25 26 26 27 28 28 29 30
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
42
8.1 Conclusions 8.2 Recommendations APPENDICES A B C D E F Suggestions for further reading Host organisations Mission participants List of exhibits Glossary Acknowledgments
42 42 44 44 45 47 56 58 60
COMMERCIAL VALUE OF BIOMIMETICS
5.1 Commercial case for biomimetic solutions 5.1.1 Devices 5.1.2 Optimisation 5.1.3 Functional surfaces 5.2 Role of funding 5.3 Incubators and consortia 5.4 Discussion and conclusions 6 BIOMIMETICS AND PRODUCT DESIGN
30 30 31 31 31 33 33 35
6.1 Introduction 6.2 A technique, not a style 6.3 What product designers should know 6.3.1 Who does what? 6.4 What is the appeal to designers? 6.5 The commercial case 6.6 Conclusions 7 INTEGRATING BIOMIMETICS INTO PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT Introduction Processes 7 .2.1 Top-down process 7 .2.2 Bottom-up process Tools Conclusions and recommendations
35 35 35 36 36 37 37 38
7 .1 7 .2
7 .3 7 .4
38 38 38 39 40 40
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This DTI Global Watch Mission to Germany and the Netherlands during 15-19 January 2007 was coordinated by Thoughtcrew Ltd1 an associate member of the Faraday Packaging Partnership (FPP).2 The vision for the mission came from Professor Julian Vincent3 of the University of Bath who has been actively involved in the study of biomimetics for the last 15 years. Having reached 64 during the mission week it seemed time to formally recognise the potential contribution of biomimetics to industry in the UK. Globally there are four key centres of research in biomimetics: the UK, Germany, the Netherlands and the USA. Germany leads the way in terms of taking an integrated approach that embraces research and commercial application. Over 30 million (~20 million) has been invested by the German Government in the development of a network of competence. The mission team discovered that in the Netherlands the situation was similar to that found in the UK. There were a number of leading research institutes and commercial organisations applying biomimetic concepts to developing product and design ideas. However, these efforts were isolated and, unlike BIONIS4 in the UK, the Netherlands does not have a network to share ideas. In Germany the BIOKON5 network has a much bigger footprint in terms of marketing efforts, organisation and knowledge transfer.
However, they do not seem to be significantly further forward in terms of real products on the shelf although there was a better link between fundamental research and the creation of prototypes. There is a real opportunity to create a critical mass of thinking, research and commercial acumen at the European level, driven by the UK. The future This mission was a milestone in the evolution of biomimetics in the UK. Whilst there have been a significant number of research endeavours in centres such as Bath and Reading the UK has struggled to achieve critical mass to get ideas from the lab onto the shelves. The mission provided the catalyst to create a European initiative to deliver the benefits of biomimetics. The intention of the mission team is to start with the packaging and product development opportunity under the umbrella of the FPP The team has already . secured enthusiastic support from the organisations met on the mission and intend offering this as a channel of knowledge to UK businesses that wish to use biomimetics to help them think, design and produce profit.
1 Thoughtcrew Ltd: www.thoughtcrew.net 2 Faraday Packaging Partnership (FPP): www.faradaypackaging.com 3 Professor Julian Vincent, University of Bath: www.bath.ac.uk/mediaexpertise/julianvincent.htm 4 BIONIS (Biomimetics Network for Industrial Sustainability): www.extra.rdg.ac.uk/eng/BIONIS 5 BIOKON (Bionik-Kompetenz-Netz Bionics Competence Network): www.biokon.net
INTRODUCTION
1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6

1.1
Background Mission aims Objectives Coordinating body Mission location Mission participants
Background
should offer additional functionality such as extra shelf life. Sustainability is also becoming a key driver both through legislative requirements and consumer demand. Biomimetics is sold on the promise of innovations with a shorter development time. The novelty is due to the different ways in which biology implements various physical and chemical principles and the different routes it uses to solve the problems we also see in our technology. The mission therefore concentrated on the ease with which technical and design advances can be made using biology as a paradigm. 1.2 Mission aims
The mission studied the development and application of biomimetics6 by industry and commerce in Germany and the Netherlands and explored the development and value of generic design rules and procedures which can be drawn from nature. Good design is fundamental to the success of consumer products in todays marketplace. Significant competitive advantage can be gained from focusing on introducing strategies for innovation in the new product development process. Influencing the design of the packaging for this type of product is also important as it frequently acts as a key marketing tool at the point of sale. However, packaging has many functions which must be considered during the design process: Containing the product to allow transport to point of sale Protecting products from external contamination to ensure freshness and prevent unwanted tampering Informing the consumer regarding the contents and their impacts Marketing the product at point of sale The changing landscape of consumer expectations means that packaging must be easy to open, convenient, attractive and often
This mission aimed to explore a range of technological, design and commercial issues relating to the application of biomimetic design principles and concepts: Increase awareness in the UK FMCG (fastmoving consumer goods) and related industry about the commercial benefits of biomimetics and hence support growth in UK supply chains from product concept through to final product Promote application of biomimetics to consumer products and their packaging, in particular in relation to food, household, personal care and pharmaceuticals The benchmarks gathered during the mission are both technical and commercial. The technical benchmarks relate to the ability of the technologies to deliver competitive advantage in terms of cost or performance in the targeted applications. The commercial benchmarks look at the process by which
6 The term bionics is used in Germany this is synonymous with the UK term biomimetics
companies have developed the technology from concept to commercial production. The role of academic research, government funding and private-sector partnerships and finance are included. 1.3 Objectives
The objectives of the mission were to: Gain awareness of the state of development in biomimetics research in leading European countries eg who is driving this research, how effectively is it translated into commercial benefits? Identify mechanisms of networking or information access to improve industry awareness, and links between academia and industry/end users Mine key successful case studies such as the DaimlerChrysler bionic car and assess the level of commercial benefits derived from applying biomimetic principles, and identify the mechanisms and routes by which benefits have occurred Gauge the general level of awareness among national industry Assess the importance placed on biomimetics and the extent to which other countries have raised awareness of it among industrial designers Benchmark the UK biomimetics activity with other countries Explore the ways in which the countries are stimulating the development of new products that utilise biomimetic concepts and understand the roles of public sector (national and regional) and private-sector investors Explore and brainstorm the ways in which biomimetics can add value to the supply chain for FMCG and other highvolume products 1.4 Coordinating body
formed in 1997 as one of the original Faraday Partnerships funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and DTI. Since then it has established a strong fee-paying membership base made up primarily of international brand owners in the consumer products arena and packaging producers, along with world-leading specialist suppliers. Confident of its immediate future, FPP has recently embarked on an expansion programme as a specialist application node to the newly formed Materials Knowledge Transfer Network (KTN) managed on behalf of DTI by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3). The wide-ranging membership base provided FPP with a unique platform from which to draw members of the mission and more importantly to ensure dissemination and uptake of the outcome. In particular the full portfolio of dissemination mechanisms established by FPP will be used to generate interest and engagement and provide core participation for the dissemination event. The research leading to the mission, and dayto-day coordination, was through an SME associate of FPP Thoughtcrew Ltd subcontracted to provide resources for project management and planning. Specifically, Phil Richardson Managing Director of Thoughtcrew Ltd was mission leader. He has a background in life sciences, is a chartered biologist, and holds an MBA from the Open University (where he also lectures on strategy and business operations). He is an experienced project manager with a track record of working at board level, whilst currently researching a PhD in biomimetics. 1.5 Mission location
Faraday Packaging Partnership (FPP) was the coordinating body for the mission. FPP was 6
The central focus on Germany is due to its world-leading position in biomimetics at both academic and industrial level, with several high-profile operations being formed or acquired by companies.
Germany is probably the world leader in practical biomimetics, partly because the scientific base has always been strong, due mainly to the activity of a few academics. German industry is also very open to new technologies, and the relationship between the universities, Max Planck Institutes and Fraunhofer Institutes is particularly significant in ensuring effective transfer of technology. BIOKON (Bionik-Kompetenz-Netz Bionics Competence Network) has been very effective in supporting the research and creating a clear route for technology translation to industry. Many of the worlds leading biomimetic operations are based in Germany, including the bionic car from DaimlerChrysler. In the Netherlands the European Space Agency (ESA) is actively applying ideas from nature in a wide range of areas of biomimetics reported in an extensive web site with applications in space exploration. It has a rudimentary database and a collection of interesting and relevant reports, all fully referenced.
1.6
Mission participants
The mission participants came from a broad span of industry, including FMCG manufacturers, designers, packaging, materials and consulting: Dr Cathy Barnes Faraday Packaging Partnership Geoff Hollington Hollington Associates Dr Matthias Gester Procter & Gamble Professor Julian Vincent University of Bath Patrick Poitevin COSi Ltd Dr Martin Kemp DTI Global Watch Service Johannes Schampel ColepCCL Brian Knott Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining Phil Richardson Thoughtcrew Ltd
Exhibit 1.1 Mission team at the Radisson Hotel, Berlin; L Matthias Gester, Geoff Hollington, Martin Kemp, -R: Julian Vincent, Cathy Barnes, Patrick Poitevin (front), Johannes Schampel (behind), Brian Knott, Phil Richardson
BACKGROUND TO BIOMIMETICS Julian Vincent
2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6

2.1
Introduction Flight Architecture Textiles Typical topics Information retrieval

Introduction
destined to be outside. The globe fuses with the cell membrane and the topological prediction is fulfilled. The spare membrane which inevitably accumulates on the cell surface is tucked away and recycled in a sort of cellular face-lift. Biomimetics7 which we here mean to be synonymous with biomimesis, biomimicry, bionics, biognosis, biologically inspired design and similar words and phrases implying copying or adaptation or derivation from biology is a relatively young study embracing the practical use of mechanisms and functions of biological science in engineering, design, chemistry, electronics and so on. The word was first coined by Otto Schmitt, a polymath, whose doctoral research was an attempt to produce a physical device that mimicked the electrical action of a nerve. By 1957 he had come to perceive what he would later label biomimetics as a disregarded but highly significant converse of the standard view of biophysics. He said: Biophysics is not so much a subject matter as it is a point of view. It is an approach to problems of biological science utilising the theory and technology of the physical sciences. Conversely, biophysics is also a biologists approach to problems of physical science and engineering, although this aspect has largely been neglected. The related word bionics was coined by Jack Steele of the US Air Force in 1960 at a meeting at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio. He defined it as the science of systems which have some function copied from nature, or which represent characteristics of natural systems or their analogues.
Can innovation be managed? The history of advancement shows that we depend on the vision and efforts of people going beyond what is considered rational or possible and seeing what happens. This is an orderly way of doing things in that it gives a framework. Think the unthinkable, then rationalise it and bring it into the common ambit. This is also what happens with biomimetics. The underlying assumption is that nature performs a function with the least amount of energy, uses the commonest materials, and is the most reliable (though it may rely heavily on feedback control). Speed is rarely important, mostly because it would take too much energy or would involve dangerous chemistry. Some critical processes (escape responses, decision making) can happen very quickly. However, growth can take its time the emphasis being on having viable offspring before we die. By doing everything in water and using diffusion gradients, nature produces a production line with few moving parts and, by virtue of the cell membrane, a highly controlled chemical environment. The problems of getting synthesised material across the membrane are solved by a packaging system whereby products are labelled then wrapped in a globe of membrane which establishes its interior as
7 Julian F V Vincent et al, Biomimetics: its practice and theory, J R Soc Interface (2006) 3:471-482; www.journals.royalsoc.ac.uk/media/mgat4etrtl2tpnk2up67/ contributions/k/0/4/8/k048171720104k70.pdf
At another meeting at Dayton in 1963, Schmitt said: Let us consider what bionics has come to mean operationally and what it or some word like it (I prefer biomimetics) ought to mean in order to make good use of the technical skills of scientists specialising, or rather, I should say, despecialising into this area of research. Presumably our common interest is in examining biological phenomenology in the hope of gaining insight and inspiration for developing physical or composite biophysical systems in the image of life. The word made its first public appearance in Websters Dictionary in 1974, accompanied by the following definition: The study of the formation, structure or function of biologically produced substances and materials (as enzymes or silk) and biological mechanisms and processes (as protein synthesis or photosynthesis) especially for the purpose of synthesising similar products by artificial mechanisms which mimic natural ones. However, people have looked to nature for inspiration for more than 3,000 years, since the Chinese first tried to make an artificial silk. 2.2 Flight
with so many degrees of freedom in the design, and the difficulty the pilot had in varying these controls in flight, stability was compromised. On 9 October 1890 Ader flew about 50 m but the flight was not considered to have been controlled or sustained. Ader completed another aircraft, the Avion III, in 1897 It was generally similar in concept and . appearance to Eole, but had two engines and simplified wings. Two tests of the Avion III were conducted on a circular track but it did not fly although Ader claimed to have flown a distance of 300 m. Flying seeds inspired serious investigations into the theory of flight; one of these was the seed of the liana Alsomitra macrocarpa, which could glide great distances with inherent stability. Several of the early experimenters with tailless aircraft, including Igo Etrich, adapted these principles to the design of powered, sustained flight in heavierthan-air machines. In 1904 Etrich built a graceful tailless glider in the shape of the Alsomitra seed made of bamboo, canvas and wire. By 1906, practice glides with sandbags for passengers had been successfully conducted, and the glider made what was perhaps the first successful flight of an inherently stable, manned aircraft. In 1907 Etrich installed a 40 hp engine into a second design, and on 29 November 1909 flew his first sustained powered flight. It then became obvious that simply adding a power plant to the wing was not the way to advance, so once again he turned to nature for the solution. To the Alsomitra wing he added the tail of a bird. The aircraft that evolved was the Taube (dove), a class of aircraft that was produced in a bewildering number of versions for both civil and military use. Between 1910 and 1914, 54 manufacturers produced over 500 of these aircraft, in 137 different configurations. The Taube was easily recognised by the distinctive Alsomitrashaped wings and dove-like tail, and possessed such inherent stability that it could fly itself. 9
Leonardo da Vinci studied birds flying and designed some machines, but never made any. Clement Ader designed and made a flying wing aircraft designed by copying bats wings, to the extent that they folded and were supported and shaped in exactly the same way. The first aircraft, the Eole, had a single steam engine with a four-bladed bamboo propeller made in the form of bird feathers. Each wing could be swung forward and aft separately by a hand-operated crank, thus changing the position of the centre of pressure and consequently the pitch of the airplane. Wings could be flexed up and down by foot pedal; wing area and camber could also be changed by crank action. However,
2.3
Architecture
the strongest winds the top of the tower moves no more than 12 cm. Antonio Gaud was fascinated by nature from childhood. He studied natures angles and curves and incorporated them into his designs. Instead of relying on geometric shapes, he mimicked the way trees grow and stand upright. The hyperboloids and paraboloids he borrowed from nature were easily reinforced by steel rods and allowed his designs to resemble elements from the environment. This was enhanced by his experimental approach to design, such that he established the lines of force in his buildings then arranged the supporting stone around them, thus producing authentic treelike structures. For many years Frei Otto worked on lightweight structures in the University of Stuttgart. He leaves a legacy of examining nature, especially spiders webs, as a source of inspiration for tent-like tension structures, exemplified by the Munich Olympic Stadium. The roof of Stuttgart Airport is supported by his tree-like structures. Not all his ideas were as successful, for example his notorious pneu studies, where he claimed that all biology is the product of inflatable structures, totally missing the point that the shape of a soap bubble is necessitated by the inability of the liquid soap film to resist shear; therefore the skin of an object shaped like a soap bubble will also be shear-free and thus lighter and more efficient. Richard Rogers in his Reith Lectures on the built environment leant heavily on nature as a source of inspiration and on the possibilities of an intelligent building which, like an organism, could sense the external environment and alter its outer covering in such a way as to keep the internal environment ideal.
Architects commonly use biology as a library of shapes. As decoration (Art Nouveau, Jungendstil and the like) this is obviously acceptable, but the client still has to be able to afford it. Unfortunately biology is also used ineptly as a structural rationale. In Swifts satire of the Royal Society in Gullivers Travels, There was a most ingenious architect who had contrived a new method for building houses, by beginning at the roof, and working downwards to the foundation; which he justified to me by the like practice of those two prudent insects the bee and the spider. It is uncertain whether Joseph Paxton got his ideas for the Crystal Palace from the leaves of a giant water lily: he used a leaf as an illustration during a talk at the Royal Society of the Arts in London, showing how to support a roof-like structure, and the myth may have grown out of overenthusiastic reportage. Certainly there is little similarity between the design of the water lily leaf (which uses support of radial tapering beams) and the design of the roof of the Crystal Palace (which, with its corrugations, more resembles other types of leaf such as beech or hornbeam). The original impetus for the corrugated roof occurred about 20 years earlier, when Paxton copied an idea to ensure that sunlight could go through the glass unimpeded during the morning and evening, but with a longer light path at midday, perhaps giving a little protection at the hottest part of the day. There are stories that Eiffels tower was based on the structure of trabecular struts in the head of the human femur, or the taper of a tulip stem. In fact it was constructed to resist wind loading, a topic in which Eiffel was an early expert. In the construction of the tower, the curve of the base pylons was calculated so that the wind loads were resisted related to their force and the moment exerted with height. Thus even in 10
2.4
Textiles
In the early 1940s George de Mestral, a Swiss inventor, went for a walk in the forest with his dog. Upon his return home he noticed that the dogs coat and his trousers were covered in cockleburs. His inventors curiosity led him to study the burs under the microscope, where he discovered the hooked ends of the bristles that stick out from the seeds. This became the basis for a zip, later developed into a two-sided fastener. One side has stiff hooks like the burs; the other has loops like the fabric of his trousers. The result was Velcro, named for the French words velour (velvet) and crochet (hook). The challenge was then to make machinery that could produce textured fabrics that would work reliably. After considerable experimentation, de Mestral developed special looms and hook-cutting machinery. Currently Velcro Industries is (as its advertising literature assures us) a technically driven global organisation and the industry leader. It offers hundreds of different hookand-loop products and fastening systems. It makes fastening tapes of woven and knitted construction and custom-designed speciality fasteners made of various materials in different shapes and sizes. 2.5 Typical topics
Deployable structures Drag reduction Growth Hairy and feathery surfaces Haptics Joining and adhesion Lubrication Material properties Mechanical mechanisms Navigation and control Pumps Responsive materials and structures Self-repair Self-replication Social interactions Surface protection/hardness Sustainability Swimming Vision Walking/running Information retrieval
2.6
Biomimetics is nothing unless engineers and designers can retrieve information from biology which will lead to improved design, strength, efficiency etc. There are several ways in which this can be achieved, but the general thrust must be towards de-skilling the area so that the information is more readily available to all. The most obvious way is to ask a biologist to identify the animals and plants in which a certain function is available. This requires a biologist with a broad base in natural history, ecology, molecular biology, behaviour... such people are rare. A second approach is to develop a hypertext database of research papers. This approach is being taken by the Biomimicry Guild8 in the USA. This still requires interpretation and understanding of biological information, and does not allow for the complexity of biological systems. It may be important to strip away
The mission was shown developments in some of the subject areas listed below. This list is by no means exhaustive; it should cover the whole of biology. Behaviour Bumpy surfaces Camouflage Chemistry Chemosense Composite materials Computing Creative design
8 www.biomimicryguild.com
11
the biological processes from the main function which is required from the biological paradigm. This is not a trivial process. Both these methods are subjective and require knowledge and skill in biology. Still with the concept of discovering biological analogues, lexical search of a biological database has proved useful. The main difficulty is translating between the words used for a concept in biology and in engineering. For instance the function clean in an engineering context was rated as similar to defend in a biological context, where an organism defends itself against pathogens by cleansing or isolation. This is a powerful method since there are many large and complete biological texts available which can be used as source material. Web search engines can also be incorporated. Another approach is to adapt an existing method from engineering and introduce a biological component. The Theory of Inventive Problem Solving known by its Russian acronym TRIZ seems particularly suitable but requires the production of a large database from biology. Advantages are that such a system incorporates creative definitions and solutions and so is pre-adapted for dynamic transfer of concepts and functions between disciplines. This system probably requires the least skill and knowledge in biology but the most effort in setting it up. It is the most amenable to computation and can incorporate web search engines.
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EXAMPLES OF BIOMIMETIC APPLICATIONS: BIOLOGICALLY INSPIRED PACKAGING Patrick Poitevin
3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5
3.6 3.7
3.1
Introduction Objective Biomimetics in packaging Industrial mission delegates and biomimetics Applications and opportunities in biomimetic packaging encountered during the mission Summary Conclusions
Introduction
structures. Natures solutions have stood the test of time. 3.3 Biomimetics in packaging
Biomimetics in packaging covers many different areas: Energy Functions Environment Light weight Materials Process Structure Surfaces Transport
Packaging should be taken in the widest sense possible. It is a vehicle to transport and protect the product, but quite often is part of the product or is the product itself. Packaging has a design, a shape, a structure, a concept, a finish and a decoration or print. Natures designs, materials, processes and structures have always inspired packaging. Numerous examples could be listed, including Velcro and lotus leaf, tongs and tweezers. The examples in this chapter are drawn from the case studies encountered during the mission. 3.2 Objective
The mission came across all these different areas not only in packaging but also in other applications mentioned in this report. 3.4 Industrial mission delegates and biomimetics ColepCCL, Laupheim, Germany
3.4.1
Does not apply biomimetics yet but is looking for opportunities. 3.4.2 COSi Creative Outsourcing Solutions International, UK
Packaging is alongside the product, the driver to attract consumers. It is the first item the consumer sees, feels, smells, touches and (maybe) tastes. It is important that the packaging industry is up to date on changes, on newness, on innovation constantly enquiring How can we stand out? looking into other industries and learning from crossindustry technologies. Nature is one of those other industries. We can learn enormously from nature. Why reinvent the wheel when nature has it all? People are used to natural
Applies biomimetics in fingerprint-free coatings on highly shiny metallised and anodised personal care components. The additives in the coatings are based on the lotus leaf repellent effect. See Exhibit 3.1.
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Opportunities
Manipulate spray patterns and transport liquids with unlimited viscosities such as personal care formulations. Use microfluidic system for mixing dual chamber dosage and mix active ingredients in stimulus with designated purpose.
Exhibit 3.1 Fingerprint-free coatings on highly shiny metallised and anodised personal care components (courtesy COSi)
3.5.2
DEAM University of Delft, the Netherlands
3.4.3
Procter & Gamble/Gillette, Reading, UK
Applications
Endoscope in micro scale and rolling doughnuts.
Does not apply biomimetics yet but is looking for opportunities. 3.5 Applications and opportunities in biomimetic packaging encountered during the mission Philips, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
Opportunities
Rolling doughnut moves itself in and out through a colon. Can be used for packaging inspection. 3.5.3 University of Groningen, the Netherlands University of Cambridge, UK
3.5.1
Applications
Microfluidics which can manipulate the spray on a small scale transporting, mixing, sorting and collecting. Can be used for ink-jet application and cooling electronics. See Exhibit 3.2. Microfluidic mixer based on stimulus, for example temperature, humidity.
Applications
Dynamic wetting of porous Teflon surfaces based on lotus leaf. Concept already applied at COSi for fingerprint-free coating on highly shiny metallised and anodised components. See Exhibit 3.3.
Exhibit 3.2 Ink-jet printing for displays and biomedical applications (courtesy Philips)
Exhibit 3.3 Dynamic wetting of porous Teflon surfaces based on lotus leaf (courtesy University of Cambridge)
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Opportunities
Use of coating to keep packaging dry. Coating can be used inside bottles for easy pouring of sticky product. 3.5.4 Institute for Textile Technology and Process Engineering (ITV Denkendorf), Germany
Exhibit 3.6 Composite profiles modelled on plant stems (courtesy ITV)
Applications
Applies lotus effect on and in textiles. Textile repels water or stays dry in water and is self-cleaning. See Exhibit 3.4.
Exhibit 3.7 Transparent light transfer inspired by polar bear hair (courtesy ITV/P Poitevin)
Exhibit 3.4 Lotus effect on textiles (courtesy ITV)
Transparent light transfer inspired by polar bear hair as supposed light guides. Dark skin absorbs IR but blocks harmful UV radiations. See Exhibit 3.7 .
Opportunities
Handbags and other textile parts, used in packaging or gift industry, can be kept dry and clean. Water sports gifts and toys or packaging which should be kept dry. Heat insulation, can be applied for selfheating or thermostatic packaging. Use in hydrophobic chemistry for waterresistant products such as waterproof mascara. Plant stem construction for light weight but high stiffness for rods and parts which needs strength and rigidity.
Exhibit 3.5 Coating containing electrostatic particles (courtesy ITV)
Coating containing electrostatic particles. See Exhibit 3.5. Reinforced fibres. Release of air bubbles to create speed and reduction of frictional drift. Used for boats. Plant stems as role models for composite profiles. Creates light weight and enhanced stiffness. Used in ski poles, cables, tubes and bicycle frames. See Exhibit 3.6.
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Exhibit 3.9 Dry adhesive (courtesy Max Planck Institute for Metals Research, Stuttgart) Exhibit 3.8 Aerodynamics application by DaimlerChrysler (courtesy BIOKON, Germany)
3.5.5
DaimlerChrysler Research and Technology, Ulm, Germany
Applications
Aerodynamics. See Exhibit 3.8. Tree fork construction to maximise strength. Notch stresses with hollow structures.
Exhibit 3.10 Dry adhesive applications (courtesy Max Planck Institute for Metals Research, Stuttgart)
Opportunities
Lightweight construction in metal gift packaging with hollow structures. 3.5.6 Max Planck Institute for Metals Research, Evolutionary Biomaterials Group, Stuttgart, Germany
Exhibit 3.11 Head-arresting system in dragonflies (courtesy Max Planck Institute for Metals Research, Stuttgart)
Applications
Dry adhesives such as gecko, beetle, robot like, suction cups. See Exhibits 3.9 and 3.10. Head-arresting system in dragonflies tells contact or no contact. Mechanical coupling. See Exhibit 3.11.
Opportunities
Apply products in dry condition to skis for easy release. Soft-touch applications and surfaces.
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Exhibit 3.12 Models from trees, bamboos and vines used for construction in aircraft, cars, roofs and bridges (courtesy University of Freiburg)
Exhibit 3.13 Glass fibre construction (courtesy Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Berlin)
3.5.7
University of Freiburg, Plant Biomechanics Group, Germany
Applications
Models from trees, bamboos and vines used for construction in aircraft, cars, roofs and bridges. See Exhibit 3.12. Self-repair vine and coat membrane with foam.
Opportunities
Use models and constructions in packaging and make light but solid. Self-repair packaging in future? 3.5.8 Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Potsdam, Berlin, Germany
Exhibit 3.14 Cell wall constructions for wood (courtesy Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Berlin)
Cell wall constructions for wood. See Exhibit 3.14. Self-assembly hierarchical order in water. Lamellar structure based on collagen fibrils, stiff and tough. Microcapsules with nano-scale wall thickness with controlled mechanical properties. Self-repairing coatings where inhibitor releases on command. 17
Applications
Synthetic motors or active transport. Active biomimetic systems. Glass fibre construction. Tough material and light. See Exhibit 3.13.
Opportunities
Focused transport of polymers for activations and functional packaging. Use of glass fibres in packaging. Self-repair coatings for scratch and scuff defects. 3.5.9
BIOKON/EvoLogics GmbH, F&E Labor Bionik, Berlin, Germany

Exhibit 3.16 Surface applications inspired by penguins, lotus leaves, dolphins, sharks, geckos and sandfish (courtesy BIOKON, Germany)
Applications
Acoustic camera. See Exhibit 3.15.
Exhibit 3.15 Acoustic camera (courtesy Gesellschaft zur Frderung angewandter Informatik GFaI, Berlin)
Exhibit 3.17 Fin ray effect used for ergonomic chair (courtesy BIOKON, Germany/P Poitevin)
Surface applications inspired by penguins, lotus leaves, dolphins, sharks, geckos and sandfish. See Exhibit 3.16. Bionic propellers, friction coefficients, sonar techniques.
Fin ray effect used for ergonomic chairs can be used in the packaging printing industry, such as glass, where tolerances are too large for proper jig printing. See Exhibits 3.17 and 3.18. 3.5.10 University of Applied Sciences, Magdeburg-Stendal, Germany
Opportunities
Analyses of packaging with acoustic cameras to improve handling, noise and acoustic properties, such as lubricating, swivel and torque in packaging.
Applications
Modular walking robots, dismantling robots. See Exhibit 3.19.
18
Exhibit 3.18 Fin ray effect can also be used in the packaging printing industry, such as glass, where tolerances are too large for proper jig printing (courtesy BIOKON, Germany/P Poitevin)
Exhibit 3.20 Reduction of materials conception (courtesy Dr Mirtsch/P Poitevin)
Opportunities
Use in lightweight bottles, jars, aerosols and cans in general. Opportunity to find solutions for printing or decoration. 3.5.12 INPRO, Berlin, Germany
Applications
Detection and inspection instruments for surfaces and defects in materials and surfaces such as plasma treatment, laser welding.
Exhibit 3.19 Modular walking robots (courtesy University of Applied Sciences, Magdeburg-Stendal)
Opportunities Opportunities
Robots can be used for rather difficult-toaccess areas for research and applying packaging decoration. 3.5.11 Dr Mirtsch GmbH, Teltow, Berlin, Germany Use in materials science and surface investigations. 3.6 Summary
Applications
Reduction of materials conception. Material can be reduced 24% in weight by hexagonal or honeycomb shaped buckling. See Exhibit 3.20.
Each university, institute or company met during this mission had an application or at least an opportunity in packaging or packaging-related topics. No-one wants to repeat or copy what someone else has done. Biologically inspired products or mimicking nature? No problem in doing so. Invisible solutions may contribute to visible innovations. Think outside the shell! 19
The biomimetic developments encountered on the mission are only a fraction of what is happening in the world. There is a goldmine in biomimetics related to packaging. Industrialists have to know what opportunities there are. Institutes and universities have to know the needs. Collaboration is key. Nature has so many opportunities. 3.7 Conclusions
Biomimetics is a key driver. Sustainability and innovation are the current topics in packaging. Biomimetics supplies and covers both. Although biomimetics does not have all shortterm solutions, it certainly covers mid- and long-term opportunities and is definitely the solution to sustainability and innovation in packaging. Industries will soon be converted to the new (biomimetic) religion. Collaboration with those universities and institutes working on biomimetics is crucial. Innovation requires inspiration and relies on creativity. Nature does! Currently, UK industry has BIONIS in Reading/Bath and other biomimetic packaging liaisons abroad though needs a good database, a central UK-based full-time biomimetic support with regular newsletters, conferences and meetings and information on applications, opportunities and worldwide latest news. The challenge is to move forward, fast. It took the lotus concept over 20 years and Velcro eight years. If the UK wants to be on top of biomimetics, being innovative, creative and sustainable, it needs the proper infrastructure and base to help industry move in that direction. Quite often, institutes and universities communicate to the industry: Tell us what the needs are. Meanwhile, the industry is communicating to those bodies: Tell us what your research is, what you are working on. We need two-way communication.
20
APPLICATION OF BIOMIMETICS IN OTHER INDUSTRIES Brian Knott and Johannes Schampel
4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7
Introduction Architecture Automotive Healthcare Dry adhesives Discussion Samples of biomimetics related to industry
Introduction
impression is of a wood of metal trees, where each trunk, bough, branch and twig plays a synergistic role in supporting the weight of the roof. See Exhibit 4.1.
4.1
In the same way that the term biomimetics can be used to encompass a range of biological/engineering related concepts including bionics and bio-inspired, so the term product design, in its widest interpretation could encompass most if not all of the applications seen and described during this mission. However, for the purposes of this report, other industries are interpreted as those where the application is either more generalised than a specific product, or the application forms part of the overall product. The design of part of the body shell of a car forms an example of the latter. 4.2 Architecture
Exhibit 4.1 Metal trees supporting the roof of Stuttgart Airport (courtesy www.stuttgart-airport.com)
4.3
Automotive
Although the subject was not covered in any of the presentations given at the various establishments, one highly visible and immediately apparent area of the application of biomimetics was architecture, with the roof of Stuttgart Airport. This essentially flat roof has the appearance of being supported by metal trees, in that each discrete area, which could be considered as a giant leaf, is affixed to small metallic twigs, which in turn are affixed to metal branches. As the eye moves down to the ground so the branches combine to form boughs, which in turn combine to form the trunk of a tree. The final
A striking example of significant benefits which could be realised by applying the principles of biomimetics was the statement by Dr Gtz of DaimlerChrysler that an 80% reduction in the weight of the shell of a car could be achieved if it could be designed in the same way as the structure of bone, with all the consequential benefits that this would have on fuel efficiency. The front shell of a vehicle comprises many members which are joined together, often at right angles, with their associated generation of potential failure-inducing notch stresses when under load. In contrast, no notch stresses are to be 21
found within the inner surfaces where a single trunk of a tree divides into two. The faster growth of wood at regions where the structure is highly stressed, combined with slower growth at regions of low stress, eliminates notch stresses and results in a fully uniform stress loading. Bone structures, however, can grow or shrink depending on their load-bearing requirements. This has been modelled in a soft kill option (SKO) computer program developed by Professor Claus Mattheck where, during a number of iterations, material is eliminated in low-stress regions, leaving only those areas which provide load-bearing capability to the structure. An example of the optimum structure for a centrally loaded beam after only ten iterations of the program is given in Exhibit 4.2.
The bionic car, again developed by DaimlerChrysler, took the concept of using solutions from nature and applying these to car design. The exterior form of the car is substantially based on the boxfish. This tropical fish despite its boxy, cube-shaped body is somewhat surprisingly extremely streamlined with a very low coefficient of drag, a feature reproduced in the concept car (Exhibit 4.3).
Exhibit 4.3 Bionic car concept by DaimlerChrysler
Exhibit 4.2 Optimum structure for a centrally loaded beam after 10 iterations (courtesy Prof Claus Mattheck)
Application of this principle of biomimetic design to the front element of a Mercedes C class vehicle produced a structure that eliminated areas of excessive stress concentration associated with generation of notches at joints between structural members. Unfortunately the structure required can not be manufactured on a mass production basis. Nevertheless the principle of this approach was adopted by DaimlerChrysler and although it did not result in a weight saving, the removal of material from regions where it served no function permitted improved local access to enable a greater number of spot welds to be used to join the various component members of the front element.
SKO techniques were also employed in the construction of the shell, resulting in a highly fuel-efficient vehicle. In the end, only 40% of the biomimetic ideas originally considered for inclusion in the original design of the vehicle could be employed. For example, the selfcleaning features associated with the lotus effect had to be discarded as the surface produced does not have the desired high gloss. Although the concept car demonstrated successful collaboration between academia and industry, resulting in the promotion of the subject of biomimetics within the German Government with increased funding, it was surprising to hear Konrad Gtz comment that at present no further biomimetic-based projects were under way within DaimlerChrysler. The search does, however, continue for an animal that has the same boundary constraints associated with engine power transmission, with the aim of improving the tribofilm characteristics of this unit.
22
4.4
Healthcare
In healthcare the idea of using a lab-on-a-chip device to test human blood, for example, is one that is drawing ever increasing attention. A particular challenge with the development of such a device is the need to guide amounts of an already small sample of blood (typically 1 L) to various reaction chambers on the chip. Philips, after initial consideration of a number of options including capillary pumping, surface tension and electro-osmosis, was inspired by nature and selected the biomimetic route of utilising cilia (which look like very small hairs) to move the blood in a controlled manner. In humans it is the cilia, working in unison to produce a wave-like movement, that sweep mucus from the lining of the lungs; in sessile organisms exemplified by filter-feeding molluscs the cilia play an important role in feeding; whilst in microorganisms they are often the mechanism of propulsion. Philips approach was to create cilium-like plates comprising a polymer layer with a conductive backing material bonded to the base of the device normally silica. In the free condition, the single cilium adopts the form shown in Exhibit 4.4 (a), but on application of an electrostatic charge the cilium lays flat Exhibit 4.4 (b). The advantages of this approach included realisation of large amounts of movement of individual cilia, the individual cilia were robust, and multiple cilia could be incorporated in a microchannel (as shown in Exhibit 4.5) which in turn could be locally addressed using patterned electrodes to induce movement of a fluid. The technique has been successfully employed to both transport liquid and also to give mixing of two liquid streams. The concept is at a very early stage of
(a)
(b)
Exhibit 4.4 Cilium-like plate created by Philips
Exhibit 4.5 Multiple cilia incorporated in a microchannel by Philips
development but has considerable potential both for lab-on-a-chip devices and also in the development and screening of drugs. 4.5 Dry adhesives
The remit of the Max Planck Institutes (MPIs) in Germany is the study of basic science. At MPI Stuttgart considerable effort is being directed towards the understanding of surfacerelated effects in biology, looking at the ability of flies and geckos to attach to glass walls and ceilings. A number of the key structural features of the feet of the two species have been identified and reproduced on the surfaces of a number of differing materials. 23
In the insect kingdom there are two principal mechanisms of attachment, either smooth or hairy pads, with both systems having the ability to adapt and adhere to smooth and structured substrata. For example, the basal hairs of the pads of a hoverfly (Eristalis pertinax) are in turn covered in a very fine close-packed structure of high aspect ratio columns with a lip structure that makes contact with the surface. A similar structure, the essential features and associated characteristics of which are illustrated in Exhibit 4.6, has been reproduced on sheet material in square metre sizes to give a material which is adhesive solely as a consequence of its surface topography with no related chemical bonding. This dry-adhesive material is tolerant to contamination and can be cleaned by washing without much degradation of its adhesive properties.
mechanisms and also prevention of polymer squeaking by promoting smooth sliding rather than stick-slip. 4.6 Discussion
This has been only a selection of the cases where biomimetics has found application in areas other than packaging. It does, however, highlight the potential for adoption of biomimetic solutions to problems that nature has already invested millions of years of effort to solve why reinvent the wheel when it may not be the best answer to movement? The challenge would appear to be joining the specific requirements of industry with the myriad of solutions awaiting an application, offered by biologists. For many of the above, the biomimetic solution has originated either from engineers discussions with biologists, or biologists offering natures solutions to engineers. Chance would appear to have played a significant role in the process, and a prime requirement for identifying the optimum solution to an engineering challenge would appear to lie in the development and adoption of a structured method of contact between the two communities. The initial work on the problem-identifying TRIZ database and on compilation of a database of biological materials and components could be considered to be the first steps in this process. 4.7 Samples of biomimetics related to industry
Exhibit 4.6 Dry adhesives
Depending on the scale of scope we use to look at nature, we can find a multiple choice of diversified structures. Nature seems to have the master plan to develop a broad range of structures, all with totally different properties, built on the same material base. According to Julian Vincent, Professor of Biomimetics at the University of Bath, nature uses only two basic polymers to equip all polymer-based structures.
MPI Stuttgart is in active collaboration with a number of industrial partners developing the concept for applications such as adhesive tapes, grippers for manipulation of silicon wafers and solar batteries, paper feeding 24
Depending on the functions and systems we regard, it seems nature knows how to change material properties by changing the inner structure and therefore constructs objects very efficiently on a sustainable base. 4.7 .1 Steerable endoscope
it suitable for low-cost mass production of steerable endoscopes, instruments and catheters. Technical developments during the last 20 years have resulted in a decreasing average diameter of endoscopes down to 12 mm 5 mm and a strong improvement in image quality. The big difference between the conservative constructed endoscopes and the new developed bionic endoscope is that conservative systems do have a limited space of observation: the incision acts like a fulcrum, giving only four degrees of freedom (DOFs). Therefore it is impossible to take a look behind objects by getting around them. In order to find dangerous metastases and cavities, it is necessary to have a more flexible endoscope which is not limited by those restrictions.
Steerable endoscope for laparoscopic surgery by Paul Breedveld, Jules S Scheltes, Esther M Blom and Johanna E I Verheij, Department of Biomechanical Engineering, University of Delft
The function of this new endoscope was inspired by the tentacles of a squid (Exhibit 4.7).
Exhibit 4.7 Schematic cross section of the tentacle of the loliginid squid. The tentacle is surrounded by longitudinal and helical muscle layers (LML and HML). The cross section contains a ring of longitudinal muscle bundles (LMB) which are enclosed by transverse and circular muscle fibres (TMF and CMF)
Exhibit 4.8 Endo-Periscope developed by University of Delft in cooperation with Tokyo Institute of Technology
Currently being commercialised, the endoscope follows the same principle as the tentacles and consists only of standard parts such as coil springs, cables, rings and tubes. Compared to the current systems, which are very expensive, the new bionic endoscope works very efficiently and can easily be miniaturised to a very small diameter, making
To increase manoeuvrability of the endoscopic camera, the new endoscope, the Endo-Periscope (Exhibit 4.8), has been developed at Delft University of Technology in close cooperation with the Tokyo Institute of Technology. The Endo-Periscope has a rigid shaft and a 2-DOF steerable tip with a miniature camera, enabling the surgeon to observe organs from the side and to look behind anatomic structures. The steerable tip is controlled via a spatial parallelogram mechanism; the camera follows the handgrip movements exactly and the handgrip is always parallel to the cameras line of sight. 25
This provides intuitive control of the tip, showing how the camera is oriented in the abdominal cavity. 4.7 .2 Adaptive braided bag filter
Adaptive braided bag filter for microfiltration in solid-liquid separation processes by Dr Jamal Sarsour, Michael Linke, Dr Markus Milwich and Dr Thomas Stegmaier, ITV Denkendorf
This project was inspired by the sea sponge which in nature works as a highly energyefficient filtration pump. This sponge is able to filter a remarkable amount of water for food particles and oxygen by using its collar cells. The idea coming from that source of inspiration is to build a highly effective crossflow microfiltration system. Basic requirements for this system are: High selectivity with particle separation Chemical and thermal resistance Little tendency to fouling Constant operation conditions High mechanical strength Reasonable price
Exhibit 4.10 ITVs braided bag filter (a) stretched, (b) relaxed
Due to its flexible construction, the filter tube can be stretched and released (Exhibit 4.10). When the filter tube is in relaxed state, the pore size is much smaller then in stretched state. Due to the variable pore size and the good cleaning performance, the application of the developed adaptive tube filters can offer new microfiltration methods in the fields of waste water, food and chemical technology. 4.7 .3 Fin ray
The team at ITV developed a braided bag filter based on the shape of a hose or a tube. This tube can be vertically installed in the filter tube system as shown in Exhibit 4.9.
Leif Kniese, Department of Bionic and Evolution Technology, Technical University of Berlin
The tail fin of a fish reacts to a mechanical stimulation in an unexpected way. When we apply an orthogonal force to the right side of the tail fin, we would expect the fin to yield. But the fin bends into the direction of the force. When pressure is applied to the right hand side, the fins end turns right in a significant manner.
Exhibit 4.9 ITVs filter system equipment with the filter tube in the pipe on the right side
26
This behaviour woke the interest of Leif Kniese of the Technical University of Berlin. He became interested in the fins morphology and started to do research work. He then developed a mechanical device which reacts in a very similar way when it is facing external force (Exhibit 4.11).
and colour-coding loud areas red and quiet areas blue. The system consists of an array of microphones connected to a personal computer (PC) via a data-recording device. The array can have either a circular, linear or spherical pattern. Spherical patterns for example would be used to capture noise which is disturbing the driver of a car. The microphones are therefore installed at the height of the drivers head and capture surrounding noises (all-round measurement). See Exhibit 4.12.
Exhibit 4.11 Fin ray
Further development stages then led to a device which has unique gripper tool properties. Like an intelligent shaping tool, which shapes around an object, this tool adapts to the shape of an object. Other areas of application can be in the aviation industry (wings and fins), ergonomic parts, such as chairs, carrier systems for backpacks, beds and many more. 4.7 .4 Acoustic camera
Exhibit 4.12 Spherical array, 32-channel acoustic camera system for interior use
Acoustic camera listening with your eyes by Dr Ing Olaf Jaeckel, GFaI, Berlin
The acoustic camera is a lightweight, modular and flexible system for positioning and analysing noise sources. Similar to a thermal imaging camera, this system is able to make noise sources visible by spectral evaluation
Independent from each array, all systems have a video capturing device in the centre of the pattern. This enables the operation system afterwards to overlay visual and audio signals layer by layer. Instead of using a video image as positioning layer, one could also use the computer-aided design (CAD) file of the checked object. This system could be used for the automotive industry, in internal and external sound design, quality management and for environmental tasks. 27
4.7 .5
Bionic propeller
4.7 .6
Plants as concept generators
EvoLogics GmbH, Berlin

Inspired by the fanned wing tips of an eagle, scientists of the Bionics Department at the Technical University of Berlin asked themselves how the widespread, flexible outer wing changes the flight and drag performance. Regarding the turbulence caused by aircraft wings, a significant amount of energy is wasted and not used to create upforce. Combining those facts, the team at EvoLogics started to work on a new wing system inspired by nature. The idea was to use drag forces as efficiently as possible and therefore save energy. The principle is to split up vortices at the wing tip, known as winglets in airplanes.
Plants as concept generators for innovative biomimetic structures and materials by Thomas Speck and Tom Masselter, Botanic Garden of the University of Freiburg and BIOKON
Different biological models such as mammut trees, giant bamboos and vines are the base for biomimetic products for many different industries, including aviation, automotive and architecture. Gradient materials with optimised structure and weight properties are more often the focus of industrial collaboration. Those materials are built to resist specific forces. The team at the Botanic Garden of the University of Freiburg chose the giant reed as a biological model to learn about gradient materials.
Exhibit 4.13 Bionic propeller from EvoLogics GmbH
Exhibit 4.14 Model of stem structure
Following up this idea, a bionic propeller (Exhibit 4.13) has been developed. The new propeller is designed such that its blades meet each other to form a circular outer wing. This highly efficient and noise-avoiding propeller has been adopted for new aviation design. Further areas of application are fans, ship propellers and chopper blades. 28
The giant reed is bionically interesting because of its optimised fibre orientation and distribution. Its gradual transition between fibre and matrixes gives inspiration to build lightweight structures with high stiffness and strength. Comparing the diameter of the stem to its height, the flexibility of the plant is enormous.
Based on this model the team from Freiburg developed a technical plant stem (Exhibit 4.15) in collaboration with ITV Denkendorf. The stem is made of a bionically optimised fibre-reinforced compound material. This material gives high vibration damping, longlasting high dynamic load capacity and benign fracture behaviour.
caused by holes up to 5 mm diameter can be delayed by two to three orders of magnitude. In a second phase, not only sealing but real repair should be achieved, ie re-establishment of the mechanical properties of the membrane.
Exhibit 4.15 Technical plant stem developed by University of Freiburg in collaboration with ITV Denkendorf
To manufacture this material, high-end pultrusion and 3D-single-braiding techniques were used. 4.7 .7 Self-healing structures
Together with various industrial partners, a team from Thomas Speck developed a plantinspired self-healing system for pneumatic systems such as aircraft, bridges or architectural elements. The idea is to prevent damage through air leakage. The plant Aristolochia macrophylla is known for its self-repairing capability in the vine. Plants have developed an enormous capacity to seal and mend internal fissures. Based on this, the team worked on developing a selfrepairing foam with some promising results. With the bionically optimised foam, polymerised under pressure, air leakage 29
COMMERCIAL VALUE OF BIOMIMETICS Martin Kemp
5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4

5.1
Commercial case for biomimetic solutions Role of funding Incubators and consortia Discussion and conclusions
Commercial case for biomimetic solutions
manufacturer of such devices. Cost of the device was not so much of an issue, even if higher than standard instruments, due to performance benefits resulting in less patient trauma and damage ensuring large cost savings in post-operative patient care. A noise measurement and visualisation tool based on a bat radar analogue was presented by Dr Jaeckel of GFaI, Berlin. The methodology behind this device is well known, so the innovation has been in developing an improved overall system. This tool shows great potential for transportation design and noise optimisation and environmental monitoring. With Porsche as the launch customer, industry has identified the usefulness of this tool. An interesting feature of this case study is the way it has developed in an incubator ie GFaI (discussed in Section 5.3 below). A microfluidics pump development funded by Philips featured cost as a significant, but not overriding, factor. Again, the market was medical (diagnostics) and a premium product (at least initially) was envisaged. The biomimetics fluid transport system would be more expensive than a micropump but offered added functionality in terms of fluid mixing, a crucial factor for accurate diagnosis. The product also had an additional highadded-value application in drug testing, which strengthened the justification of research cost. However, it was made clear that Philips was very aware of cost and was looking at four different actuator options, and cost might be a deciding factor in the final choice of technique. In general terms, the simpler system would probably be preferred due to reduced cost (complexity costs money). If Philips successfully develops this product, it
Consideration of the ubiquitous hook and loop product Velcro illustrates that biologically inspired products can result in significant commercial potential. However, since it was invented in 1941, the time to develop a significant market even for this new paradigm product has been considerable. In view of its success, it begs the question why there are not more killer applications, since the source of natural inspiration is virtually endless. This chapter will assess the role of funding on commercialisation of biomimetics research. A selection of biomimetics case studies will first be compared. 5.1.1 Devices
The steerable endoscope developed by DEAM uses biomimetic principles to achieve an improved product compared to existing products. The benefits of the device were well defined: to give a better image of the target area, especially depth perception, which would allow more precise surgery cut depth. A secondary benefit would be realised if the endoscope diameter could be minimised, resulting in reduced tissue damage, and hence reduced hospital treatment costs. Having successfully achieved both of these aims, the product received commercial interest from a 30
could have huge commercial potential in future microfluidics devices. 5.1.2 Optimisation
5.1.3
Functional surfaces
The DaimlerChrysler bionic car explores aerodynamic and structural/weight benefits of biomimetic principles, including the SKO modelling approach of Professor Mattheck. This can be realised and used by engineers using finite element (FE) stress analysis software, and hence promises a powerful and accessible tool. However, DaimlerChrysler indicated no follow-on activity, even though real car components had been optimised. The barrier to full exploitation in the car industry appears to be that the optimised structures are too expensive to manufacture. However, in another industry this method might provide significant benefits. The evolutionary approach to process or design optimisation was presented by INPRO, a software package using neural network processing techniques. The diversity of applications, from coffee blending to optical lens optimisation, was impressive and indicated that it could be used in a wide range of markets. Tubular elements are widely used in industry, and the work at ITV Denkendorf simulated hollow plant-stem structures. ITV has taken this design idea forward by developing a braiding technique coupled with pultrusion to enable rapid net shape manufacture. As a case study, this overcomes several barriers to commercialisation, since it has been taken through proof-of-concept stage to prototyping. This immediately allows industry the opportunity to rapidly assess the potential, as evidenced by applications in prostheses (Springlite), train body outer skins (Bekaert); Airbus curved stringers (Fiber Innovations), and for a bicycle frame tube (Vyatek).
Surface-to-surface contact properties are involved in the way we touch, grip and feel everyday objects. For joining, the strength of interfaces is crucial. These properties have been investigated by MPI Stuttgart, resulting in a synthetic gecko foot structure using a textured soft polymer. The company Binder is interested in developing an adhesive tape version (it has patented the finest scale Velcro with 40 m features); Satisloh is investigating use in processing lenses; Shunk is interested in developing grippers for silicon wafers and solar batteries; Voith in a paper feeding system; Reticel of Belgium to prevent polymer surfaces squeaking, giving soft-touch feel for car interiors (joint patent); and OVD Kinegram of Switzerland is investigating softtouch metal strips on euro banknotes for authenticity and anticounterfeiting (this could be in the form of frictional anisotropy). A number of companies (including automotive) are interested in novel attachment devices. As with Velcro, such a product has a diverse marketing potential. These case studies, which are so different in every way, illustrate the diversity of products that can be derived from biomimetic research, from specific devices to generic products with wide potential application. To describe the latter inventions, Dr Bannasch of TU Berlin compared the normal exploitation of research ideas to the exploitation of biomimetic ideas. In the former case, he argued that starting a significant number of ideas deriving from biomimetics had multiple applications, ie greater possibilities for commercial exploitation (Exhibit 5.1). 5.2 Role of funding
Two main research funding models were seen on this mission: funding by large companies (eg Philips, DaimlerChrysler), and funding by State or Regional Government as in Germany: 31
Normal
Netherlands, France, Spain, Switzerland, Italy, Argentina, Chile, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, China and Singapore. Now employing a director and run as a commercial entity Forschungsgemeinschaft Bionik-Kompetenznetz eV BIOKON has also been active in promoting biomimetics to German industry. In addition to a website and newsletter, BIOKON has coordinated a major exhibition stand at the Hannover Messe engineering fair in 2005. This display was funded jointly by BIOKON and the nine industry sponsors who exhibited. It allowed direct promotion of biomimetics to end-user engineering industries by a variety of eyecatching demonstrators and exhibits. BIOKON also provides an access mechanism for German industry to the research community. It has run workshops for different market sectors (eg automotive and marine). At an international level, BIOKON provided exhibits for the German pavilion at Japan Expo 2005, indicating the high regard with which this work is regarded by the German Government as a promotional topic. Another networking opportunity in Germany has been the creation of a bionics (biomimetics) working group within the Association of German Engineers (VDI). It has been noted by the BIOKON network that publications involving industry sponsors are few, due to the requirement to retain confidentiality. One conclusion of the mission is that UK industry might fund significant research projects if they were more aware that the approach existed, and understood the potential benefits. The key to removing this barrier appears to be the need to communicate and raise industry awareness. A secondary funding initiative under the BMBF framework programme has been a funding competition primarily for young researchers, Biotechnology Using and
Biomimetic
Ideas
Projects
Start-ups
Products
Exhibit 5.1 Business development for biomimetic compared to normal ideas (after Bannasch)
The German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) Deutsche Bundesstiftung Umwelt (DBU) German Environment Foundation The state of Baden-Wrttemberg An increasing number of university sponsors In Germany, the BIOKON network was set up in 2001 with six members and now comprises 52 members in 28 locations. The first round of funding for BIOKON from BMBF was 2.4 million (~1.6 million) from June 2001 to June 2004. The success of BIOKON I led to a second round of funding for July 2004 to July 2007 (BIOKON II) in which BMBF awarded 20 research groups a total of 6 million (~4.1 million), with the objective that the network becomes self-funding in 2007 BIOKON . appears to have made good progress towards this objective by engaging German industry and setting up international links.
BIOKON members include universities, Max Planck Institutes and Fraunhofer research groups. The network provides internal networking infrastructure, as well as a platform for international collaboration. International links have been set up with groups in the USA, Canada, UK, Norway,
32
Shaping its Opportunities, which was launched in December 2003. The total funding of 1 million (~680,000) was for around 20 demonstrator projects with the aim of early commercialisation. 5.3 Incubators and consortia
From the research perspective, there are two major barriers which need to be addressed: Biomimetics is research-intensive and funding is therefore required from government or industry. Raising awareness of the importance of the subject to decision-makers in government is important, as is also targeting potential industry sponsors. The network approach can assist in this. Biomimetics is interdisciplinary, and needs input from a range of disciplines. This mission witnessed involvement by biologists, mathematicians, engineers, chemists and physicists to name but a few. Research funding therefore needs more effort to overcome traditional funding down single-discipline streams (eg BBSRC and EPSRC in the UK). A significant number of commercial products were observed with apparently different exploitation models. The fast track commercialisation route appeared to be those products deriving from research funded by, or licensed to, large companies (eg Festo actuators, STO paint). Small spin-out companies marketing a single product or concept (eg EvoLogics fin ray effect) were making inroads, but it seems that those based in a univeristy department derive benefit from the incubator environment, but not the immediate market access a host company can provide. An alternative model worthy of examination is the not-for-profit incubator cooperative (eg GFaI acoustic camera, which receives Berlin-state funding but must match this from its overall sales income). The INPRO model is another unusual model, based on a joint-ownership development company owned by BASF Coatings AG, DaimlerChrysler AG, IWKA AG, ThyssenKrupp Automotive AG, Volkswagen AG and the city-state of Berlin.
GFaI is an interesting incubator model. Founded in 1990 as a not-for-profit organisation, it now has 100 employees all developing computer science based businesses. GFaI receives 70% state (ie Berlin) funding each year to which it must match 30% from sales or industry income. Since GFaI is able to assign the government income as it wishes, and also agglomerates commercial income, then projects which may not produce commercial income can survive the early stage of commercialisation by being supported by the more commercially developed projects. The INPRO organisation is a joint-ownership development company owned by BASF Coatings AG, DaimlerChrysler AG, IWKA AG, ThyssenKrupp Automotive AG, Volkswagen AG and the city-state of Berlin. INPRO investigates and develops concepts and products of interest to its owners, which were not generally biomimetics but solved industrial problems. This unusual model has potential if a number of noncompetitive companies see benefit in sharing access to developments. 5.4 Discussion and conclusions
Engaging industry and generating wealth is an important factor in biomimetics as in all innovation. Biomimetics has a credibility barrier with industry end users, due to lack of awareness, or wrong preconceptions. In Germany, the setting up of a network (BIOKON) has facilitated access by industry, networked the solution providers, and given critical mass for actively promoting the subject and its products (eg at Hannover Messe).
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The large and well-organised BIOKON network in Germany reflects the large amount of government research funding received by these institutions. Equivalents to Max Planck and Fraunhofer establishments with their government or industry funding models hardly exist in the UK. It is therefore important that the UK funding bodies consider the most appropriate way to increase funding to this topic to the benefit of UK industry. The BIOKON network has had a major effect in promoting and organising German biomimetics research, and lessons from this should be applied to the UK situation. The size of this network (one of the German Kompetenznetze)9 is equivalent to a KTN in the UK. A European network concept was discussed during the mission, and received a generally favourable acceptance. Biomimetic solutions derived for specific industry problems appeared to be easier to market than generic solutions (eg dry adhesive), although the latter might have much larger commercial potential. The only real similarity between the commercialisation examples examined here is the diversity of the end products and the natural analogues from which inspiration was derived. This diversity embodies the power of the biomimetics approach, and indicates that as a problem-solving or innovation tool it can be used by any industry for any problem. A significant number of the biomimetic solutions examined during the mission have clear end uses and markets. Some have been technology-driven solutions which, because of their effectiveness, have found industrial interest. Others have been funded by industry to solve a specific problem, and hence are market driven. A common feature was that they were all relatively young in terms of development, and the potential
9 www.kompetenznetze.de
commercial success in five or 10 years is impossible to estimate. However, many certainly have the potential to succeed, and developments such as the dry adhesive based on the gecko foot could be as significant as Velcro. An incubator model appears to work well in biomimetics, in which a university provides researchers with support for commercialising products, and provides industry with a facilitated route to prototyping and development.
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BIOMIMETICS AND PRODUCT DESIGN Geoff Hollington
6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 6.5 6.6

6.1
Introduction A technique, not a style What product designers should know What is the appeal to designers? The commercial case Conclusions
Introduction
incremental path of improvement, whereas the latter visual taste and style follows a more complex trajectory. Visual fashion, be it in clothes, products or buildings, has a progressive trend a gradual one-way change influenced mainly by technology and intertwined cyclical trends where preferences come and go, often returning to revisit certain forms, details and colours again and again. In product design the fashion a decade ago was for so-called organic shapes, with vehicles and consumer products encased in smoothly flowing forms and curvy details. Bio-inspired perhaps, but not as we have seen biomimetic. At present (2007) the fashion is for a kind of post-Bauhaus minimalism, as exemplified in the work of British-born design chief Jonathan Ive at Apple. This design language is hard-edged and machine-like but succeeds in being humane and friendly through its simplicity and careful use of materials. This discussion of fashion and style is worthwhile because it is important to understand that biomimetics has nothing to do with appearance. A biomimetic product could easily be designed to look zoomorphic, but it need not. A hard-edged and minimal phone (for example) could be packed with biomimetic innovations. So it is important for designers to understand that biomimetics does not necessarily influence the appearance and style of a product. It could, but it does not have to. 6.3 What product designers should know
When a product designer says that a particular design is influenced by nature, he or she is most likely talking about its appearance: it has an organic shape. Nature is a good teacher in this regard, but imitating or being inspired by natural-looking forms, textures and colours alone is not biomimetics; to quote mission member Dr Julian Vincent: ... biomimetics has to have some biology in it. By which he means that, to be truly biomimetic, a design should in some way be informed by natures science, not just its look. Although many designers are aware of some individual achievements of biomimetic science and technology non-wetting surface treatments for example the subject does not have a high profile in the design community. The awareness, then, is anecdotal rather than systematic; designers simply are not exposed to the breadth of activity and achievement in biomimetics, or to the opportunities it promises. Put simply, biomimetics should be a standard part of the product designers toolkit, but it is not. 6.2 A technique, not a style
Product design, like any other design field, is a child of fashion. The things we make evolve along both technological and visual pathways and we tend to see the former as a one-way,
No matter what your level of focus from metres down to nanometres biology does 35
things differently to human technology (Exhibit 6.1). Just to be aware of these differences is a source of enlightenment to any product designer, as they suggest routes for improving the ways we design and make things. At a deeper level of engagement these insights can lead to new design strategies. 6.3.1 Who does what?
Making a reduced materials repertoire function in diverse ways by structuring surfaces Learning from the designs of macrostructures in nature (eg squid tentacle, penguin fluid dynamics, bamboo stem etc) Developing product self-repair techniques Employing evolutionary design processes Informing man-machine interaction design through observation of animal behaviour 6.4 What is the appeal to designers?
Product designers can seek to imitate these advantageous strategies in two ways: As clients for biomimetic materials, components and techniques generated by technical R&D coming from either research or industry labs By employing biomimetic design processes themselves As technology clients, designers can utilise (and support the development of) biomimetic materials, processes and components. More proactively, they can employ biomimetics themselves, for example, by: Reducing the number of different materials in a product assembly, making recycling much easier (biology employs very few materials, but combines them in complex composites)
Inventors, engineers and product designers have always taken inspiration from nature, which is not surprising as we are animals ourselves, immersed in the diversity of biology. But whereas until quite recently such biomimetic design was unpredictable, even accidental, it is now well advanced in the process of becoming a stand-alone branch of technology. But branch is hardly sufficient to describe a technology with access to such a wealth of source material and with such breadth and depth of application. For all intents and purposes the scope of biomimetics is limitless; its lessons close to infinite in number. So designers who choose to embrace biomimetics will find it inspiring and liberating. It offers, in some ways, an alternative lens through which to contemplate any design
Human technology
Creation by fabrication Survival by repetition Improvement through design High-temperature processes Many materials External repair
Biology
Creation by growth Survival by variation Improvement through evolution Low-temperature processes Few materials Self repair
Natures advantage
No assembly constraints, no screws! Faults quickly eliminated, no product recalls! Continuous improvement, automatic design optimisation Low energy, recyclable compounds Easier materials sourcing, easy recycling Low-cost and fast repairs, minimum downtime, no call centres!
Exhibit 6.1 Biology does things differently to human technology
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challenge. It also offers a vast inventory of sources and catalysts for invention and innovation. In comparison, the source book of schemes and models from human technology is a thin volume. 6.5 The commercial case
A long-term education strategy should be developed and properly funded to create awareness of biomimetics amongst UK product designers in practice and in education Networks, workshops and events could help forge links and transfer knowledge between the design and technical communities
Product design (alternatively called industrial design) is a youngish profession no more than 70 years old. But its maturity is much more recent, just a decade or two. Prior to that, it would not have been possible to say that product designers initiate a high proportion of the innovation and creativity in product development or that they represent a broad conduit for the introduction of new materials and processes, as is now the case. Designers operate in a competitive environment where early adoption and innovation are the most useful survival strategies. They also have a direct influence on technology adoption and material and component specification. Finally, product designers have a self-appointed duty to track and investigate what they, or we, might call cool new stuff. Biomimetics offers competitive advantages to suppliers of materials, processes and components, and to the makers and brand owners of finished products. Product designers represent one important and welldefined channel for dissemination. 6.6 Conclusions
Every product designer, whether in consultancy or employed in-house, should be aware of biomimetics and its innovation potential; biomimetics should therefore be part of every designers standard toolkit UK product design will be strengthened and made more competitive through the increased awareness of biomimetics
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INTEGRATING BIOMIMETICS INTO PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT Matthias Gester
7 .1 7 .2 7 .3 7 .4
7.1
Introduction Processes Tools Conclusions and recommendations

Introduction
A technical problem is identified by an engineer who then looks to nature for a solution this biomimetic process is often referred to as top-down A natural phenomenon is researched and understood by a biologist who then seeks for an application in the technical world this biomimetic process is often referred to as bottom-up 7 .2.1 Top-down process
This chapter examines the biomimetic processes used to date to generate the successful engineering solutions and opportunities inspired by biological systems, and how these processes can be formalised so they become more readily available to both biologists and engineers. 7.2 Processes
As illustrated in Exhibit 7 the top-down .1, process comprises the following steps: Formulate the technical problem Seek for analogies in biology Identify corresponding principles Abstract from the biological model Implement technology through prototyping and testing
As previous examples show, an engineering material or a technical device can be designed through inspiration by nature in two ways:
Exhibit 7.1 Top-down process of biomimetics (courtesy University of Freiburg)
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The top-down approach was used by DaimlerChrysler to reduce the drag of a car, which could still carry four passengers and luggage. Studies of the shape of the boxfish led to the development of the bionic car. In another example, BEAM, a spin-out from Delft University in the Netherlands, wanted to develop a flexible endoscope. A mechanism for bending the outer tube of an endoscope was designed in analogy of the squids tentacles. In the case of the DaimlerChrysler bionic car, an engineer was aware of the biomimetic process through training. In general, however, biomimetics is not an established process which an engineer would consider when embarking on the design of a new product. To become a standard process, biomimetics needs to be included in the education of the modern engineer. In addition, information needs to be available which relates the biological structure and function of a multitude of natural organisms so that analogues with technical systems can be drawn.
By considering biomimetics as a process to solve only an existing technical problem another aspect is completely lost: biomimetics also offers opportunities for completely new materials and devices. This is achieved by the bottom-up process, considered next. 7 .2.2 Bottom-up process
As illustrated in Exhibit 7 the bottom-up .2, process comprises the following steps: Identify a biological system Analyse biomechanics, functional morphology and anatomy Understand the principles Abstract from the biological model Implement technology through prototyping and testing The bottom-up approach led to the discovery and exploitation of the lotus effect. It had been observed a long time ago that the leaves of the lotus plant not only repel water
Exhibit 7.2 Bottom-up process of biomimetics (courtesy University of Freiburg)
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but also have the tendency to clean themselves. Study of the microstructure at the Institute for Materials Research at the University of Karlsruhe, and later understanding of its function, led to the development of superhydrophobic coatings. Another example is the development of dry adhesives based on the analysis of the microand nanostructure of the geckos foot at the Centre for Tribology of Biological and Bioinspired Surfaces at the Max Planck Institute for Metals Research in Stuttgart. It is often difficult for a biological expert, who has studied an organism and identified that natures design offers a valuable technical opportunity, to find an engineering partner to implement the concept. Regardless whether biology or technology is the starting point for the biomimetic process, both cases rely on an intimate interdisciplinary collaboration to generate a successful new material or device. This is obvious from all the examples given in previous chapters. For instance, ITV Denkendorf was able to use detailed biological studies from the University of Freiburg and combine these with its expertise in textile manufacturing and an understanding of industrial requirements to generate new materials, such as the lotus coated textiles and plant stem structures. 7.3 Tools
solving technical problems assuming that a solution can be derived from the analysis of existing solutions to problems which share common characteristics. For this purpose the ideal result and its constraints are first defined and then used to look up solution principles from a matrix. To make this system useful as a bionic engineering tool, the existing data have to be assembled in a database and a larger number of biological systems need to be analysed and added to this database. A complementary database system is being developed at the Centre for Tribology of Biological and Bio-inspired Surfaces at the Max Planck Institute for Metals Research in Stuttgart by Dr Wegst. This system is based on the Cambridge Materials Selector and lists about 1,000 biological materials with attributes. The database is searched and used in the same way as the materials selector and so can suggest suitable materials for particular applications. Dr Wegst is introducing elements of the TRIZ system to suggest improvements. Finally, it is possible to use a lexical search method in which biological texts are searched for keywords corresponding to the terminology in which an engineering problem can be described. This method is fairly quick and simple but relies on finding a suitable translation of engineering terminology into biology, and its outcome depends on the availability and quality of the biological literature. 7.4 Conclusion and recommendations
If a solution for an existing problem or a new business opportunity is sought or found through inspiration from nature, the need arises for a more systematic biomimetic process. For this purpose, three different tools are currently being developed. A TRIZ-based system to transfer functions, mechanisms and principles from biology to engineering has been pioneered at the Engineering Department of the University of Bath. TRIZ was developed in Russia for 40
There are two processes to generate technical solutions and opportunities inspired by nature, both of which rely on the close collaboration of biologists and engineers. Increased awareness of these processes is required to fully lever the benefits of biomimetics as a valuable complementary approach to engineering. Universities may contribute through teaching bionics as part of
engineering degrees. However, more importantly, network formation of parties active or interested in biomimetics is necessary, in particular since ultimately only the collaborative work of biologists and engineers will generate successful results. Systematic tools, which still require more resources to be developed into useful engineering aids, cannot replace the interdisciplinary biomimetics process. In Germany, partners can be found through contacting the BIOKON network, which with 270 academic and industrial members in its fifth year is a model for bringing partners together. However, the UK BIONIS network so far lacks proper funding and administrative support, which leaves individuals in the universities of Reading and Bath as the key points of contact.
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CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Cathy Barnes
8.1 8.2
8.1
Conclusions Recommendations
Conclusions
The mission team found a rich and diverse biomimetics research community in Germany and the Netherlands whose key strengths were the size of the community as supported by public research funding and the coordination of the work as exemplified by the BIOKON network. Despite this, there were still few examples of true technology transfer into real commercial applications. Empirical evidence from the discussions indicates that this discipline is reaching a new stage of maturity and commercial successes may not be far away. The steerable endoscopes for laparoscopic surgery from the University of Delft are a good example of this. The BIOKON network appears to work extremely successfully. It provides a single point of contact for industry to access all the exciting work on biomimetics in Germany and provides a seamless process to link the commercial world and academic research. The support and coordination of the BIOKON organisation has allowed German biomimetics research to generate significant exposure and momentum which has in turn increased funding and awareness of the topic as a route to product innovation. Biomimetics research in the UK has coalesced into the BIONIS network but the small amount of allocated funding has meant little progress in raising awareness and exposure. The team observed two opposite approaches to the application of biomimetic principles. Many research institutes were studying nature with the intent of finding a new technology that could be applied to industrial problems. 42
Perhaps more commercially viable opportunities are to be found from research which focuses from the opposite standpoint. This means that a problem is technologically defined and then appropriate biological solutions are searched. This method has its own issues as biology is an extremely large search space that is not fully mapped or understood. However, perhaps the key to understanding the role of biomimetics in product design is the fact that the reason for the success of any product is not that it can trace its roots back to a natural principle but that it is an example of good design! Biomimetics is a philosophical approach that can lead to novel ideas and innovative solutions that have many potential advantages, for example from functional, sustainability or weight perspectives. 8.2 Recommendations
The UK requires a networked resource to bring together the work in this area and thus support the industrial application of this exciting topic. This should encompass: The creation of a biological consultancy group to advise industry on how to apply techniques and to advise on novel solutions A formal link to the research covered by the BIOKON group and other centres of excellence in the European Union (EU) to ensure leverage is gained from the knowledge generated in other countries the EU could possibly look to fund this as part of a Seventh Framework Programme initiative Activities to raise awareness of this issue to both industry and potential funders (DTI, research councils etc)
Education is key to the expansion of biomimetics. It should be included in the education syllabus of engineers and designers to make them aware of the potential of the approach. The biological sciences should be made aware of the commercial applications of their knowledge. Benefits of awareness and exposure will be evidenced when the cohorts of these disciplines enter the commercial domain. Funding should be made available to support the training of the next generation of experts in this area to ensure succession of this important topic in the UK. However, research is still needed to identify a process for integrating biomimetics within the product development cycle and to ensure the designers of tomorrow are fully aware of the significant opportunities nature can offer to improving product success.
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Appendix A
SUGGESTIONS FOR FURTHER READING
Ball P (2001). Lifes lessons in design. Nature 409, 413-416 Benyus J M (1997). Biomimicry: innovation inspired by nature. William Morrow Beukers A and Hinte E v (1998). Lightness: the inevitable renaissance of minimum energy structures. Rotterdam: 010 Press Gibson L J and Ashby M F (1997). Cellular solids, structure and properties. Cambridge: University Press. Godfaurd J, Clements-Croome D and Jeronimidis G (2005). Sustainable building solutions: a review of lessons from the natural world. Building and Environment 40, 319-328 Gorb S (2001). Attachment devices of insect cuticle. Dordrecht, the Netherlands: Kluwer Gordon J E (1987). The science of structures and materials. New York: Freeman Kaplan D L (1998). Mollusc shell structures: novel design strategies for synthetic materials. Current Opinion in Solid State & Materials Science 3, 232-236 Mann S (1996). Biomimetic materials chemistry. VCH Mattheck C (1998). Design in nature learning from trees. Heidelberg: Springer Milwich M, Speck T, Speck O, Stegmaier T and Planck H (2006). Biomimetics and technical textiles: solving engineering problems with the help of natures wisdom. American Journal of Botany 93, 1455-1465 Sanchez C, Arribart H and Giraud Guille M M (2005). Biomimetism and bioinspiration as tools for the design of innovative materials and systems. Nature Materials 4, 277-288 Shu L H and Chiu I (2004). Natural language analysis for biomimetic design. In ASME Design Engineering Technical Conference, pp DETC2004-57250, 1-9 Vincent J F V, Bogatyreva O A, Bogatyrev N R, Bowyer A and Pahl A-K (2006). Biomimetics its practice and theory. Journal of the Royal Society Interface 3, 471-482 Wainwright S A, Biggs W D, Currey J D and Gosline J M (1976). The mechanical design of organisms. London: Arnold
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Appendix B
HOST ORGANISATIONS
B.1
Organisations met
B.2
Locations visited
Philips, Eindhoven DaimlerChrysler, Ulm University of Delft University of Groningen DEAM, Delft Institute for Textile Technology and Process Engineering (ITV Denkendorf) University of Freiburg: Plant Biomechanics Group Max Planck Institute for Metals Research: Evolutionary Biomaterials Group, Stuttgart Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Potsdam Technical University of Berlin EvoLogics GmbH, Berlin INPRO, Berlin Institute for Industrial Design, Magdeburg Hexagon Society for the Promotion of Applied Computer Science (GFaI), Berlin University of Potsdam
British Embassy Lange Voorhout 10 2514 ED The Hague The Netherlands Institut fr Textil- und Verfahrenstechnik (ITV) (Institute for Textile Technology and Process Engineering) Koerschtalstrae 26 D-73770 Denkendorf Germany Evolutionary Biomaterials Group Max-Planck-Institut fr Metallforschung (Max Planck Institute for Metals Research) Heisenbergstrae 03 D-70569 Stuttgart Germany Max-Planck-Institut fr Kolloid- und Grenzflchenforschung (Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces) Department of Biomaterials Wissenschaftspark Golm D-14424 Potsdam Germany EvoLogics GmbH, F&E Labor Bionik Ackerstrasse 76 D-13355 Berlin Germany
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B.3
BIOKON network
The Bionics Competence Network (BIOKON) hosts the 28 major players in the field of bionics and biomimetics in Germany. It is a federally funded project under the auspices of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF). The aim of BIOKON is to demonstrate the possibilities of bionics to business and industry, science and the general public, and subsequently tap its full potential. Founded in 2001, BIOKON entered its second stage in June 2004. The group of six founding centres has since been expanded by 28 additional institutes and research facilities with outstanding competences in the field of bionics. This nationwide network thus encompasses the most important research groups in bionics and provides an ideal forum for scientific exchange, the development of curricula for primary, secondary and tertiary education as well as providing qualified contacts for inquiries from the industry. (Source: www.biokon.net accessed 24 January 2007)
Exhibit B.1 Map of BIOKON network (courtesy BIOKON)
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Appendix C
MISSION PARTICIPANTS
Dr Cathy Barnes is a lecturer in Design and Manufacture Integration in the School of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Leeds and Human Sciences and Design Network Manager at Faraday Packaging Partnership. Her research interests focus on the human interface of design and manufacturing and include affective design, emotional tribology and decision-based concurrent engineering and she has published extensively in these areas. She is leading the development of affective engineering tools in a funded collaboration with nine major consumer goods companies and has particular experience of experimental design, textural analysis and self-report elicitation of user feelings about products.
Dr Cathy Barnes Network Manager Human Sciences and Design Faraday Packaging Partnership 3320 Century Way Thorpe Park Leeds LS15 8ZB UK T +44 (0)113 284 0217 F +44 (0)113 284 0211 info@faradaypackaging.com www.faradaypackaging.com
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Julian Vincent is a biologist. Commitment to the study of insects (age six) led him to a first degree in zoology (age 22), a PhD in insect hormones (age 25) and a DSc in mechanical properties of insect cuticle (age 37). As a lecturer in Zoology at the University of Reading, becoming ever more interested in the interplay between biology and technology, he established, with George Jeronimidis, the Centre for Biomimetics at Reading. He was then invited to join the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Design at the University of Bath, where he established the Centre for Biomimetic and Natural Technologies. He is married to Elizabeth, a botanist. They have a daughter, Helen, who works for BioRegional establishing protocols for sustainable living.
Professor Julian Vincent Professor of Biomimetics University of Bath Centre for Biomimetic and Natural Technologies Department of Mechanical Engineering Bath BA2 7AY UK T +44 (0)1225 826 933 F +44 (0)1225 826 928 biomimetics@bath.ac.uk www.bath.ac.uk/mech-eng/biomimetics
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Through most of his career Geoff has run his own London-based consulting firm, creating products for big international brands. He has always been an innovator, combining technical and aesthetic invention in products that often advance the state of the art. His Relay office furniture group for US giant Herman Miller was the first product to anticipate the modern organisations need for instant flexibility and mobility in the workplace: it won an IDEA/Business Week gold award. Geoff also designed Sonnet the classic, best-selling Parker pen. In 2003 he formed a high-tech start-up company to develop and market an advanced, digital massager. The product, launched in spring 2006, took Geoff to China where he spent much of 2005 learning the hard way how to develop and manufacture high-tech products there. Geoff is author of many technical patents. His work has won international awards and is held in museum collections. He has written about design in newspapers and magazines and is a regular columnist on the topic of automotive design. He has also given talks to audiences around the world, particularly in the USA. In education Geoff has taught at Kingston University, Ravensbourne College of Art and the Royal College of Art in the UK, and has moderated PhDs and been external examiner for postgraduate degrees, particularly at the Royal College. In January 2007 Geoff became a Design Mentor to the Materials and Design Exchange, a node of the Materials KTN. Geoff is married to Liz, has four children and lives in Lewes on the English coast, 50 miles south of London. 49
Geoff Hollington Hollington Associates T +44 (0)7770 567 669 geoff.h@hollington.co.uk www.hollington.co.uk Geoff is a product designer, innovator and commentator on design. He studied Industrial Design at the Central School (now the University of the Arts) in London, followed by a postgraduate degree in environmental design at Londons Royal College of Art.
Dr Matthias Gester Senior Scientist Procter & Gamble Gillette Advanced Technology Centre 460 Basingstoke Road Reading RG2 0QE UK T +44 (0)118 923 1713 F +44 (0)118 975 2822 matthias_gester@gillette.com www.pg.com
Matthias Gester works for Procter & Gamble (P&G) in the Future Technologies group at the Gillette Advanced Technology Centre in Reading. His responsibilities include the identification, evaluation and implementation of new technologies to generate concepts for hair removal devices with enhanced consumer benefits. Previously he worked in the aerospace industry and in technology consulting. Matthias read physics at the Technical University in Munich and obtained a PhD from Cambridge University. P&G (founded in 1837 HQ in Cincinnati, Ohio, , USA) produces world-renowned brands of consumer products for household care, beauty and healthcare and family and baby care. In 2005, P&G had 140,000 employees worldwide and generated total net sales of $68 billion (~35 billion). The company invested approximately $1.8 billion (~930 million) into R&D carried out in 25 centres across the globe. Gillette joined P&G in October 2005.
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Martin Kemp has nearly five years experience assisting UK organisations find technology partners across Western Europe. Formerly a Materials Scientist with experience of biomimetics research at QinetiQ (formerly DERA), he has 10 years experience of marketing and selling innovation to UK and overseas markets. He specialises in advanced materials and nanotechnology, and has overseen five overseas technology missions. Organisations wishing to discuss overseas technology and partnering opportunities are invited to make contact.
Dr Martin Kemp International Technology Promoter DTI Global Watch Service Pera Pera Innovation Park Nottingham Road Melton Mowbray Leicestershire LE13 0PB UK T +44 (0)1664 501 551 M +44 (0)7736 447 876 F +44 (0)1664 501 261 martin.kemp@pera.com www.globalwatchservice.com
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Patrick Poitevin is of Belgian origin. He worked for Este Lauder Companies for nearly two decades. Thereafter he worked as Packaging Technologist at the Nestl Group, Campina, Coty Inc and Marks & Spencer. In October 2005 he took up his present post as Packaging Development & Innovation Manager at COSi Ltd. His passion for packaging leads to innovation in any aspect.There is nothing such as an innovation. Somewhere there is a duplicate, an idea, or a copy we can use in our industry. There are no barriers, nature supplies it all. COSi (Creative Outsourcing Solutions International) develops and manufactures colour cosmetics, fragrances and personal care products for brand owners all over the world. Imagination and innovation is at the core of everything COSi does, from the design studio to the factory floor, from the development of an individual to the strategic direction of the company. It is embedded in COSis culture. COSi was founded in 1992 and now employs over 1,200 people within R&D and at its two plants in the UK. A third beauty plant, in Shanghai, China, is due to commence operations in 2007 Sales and sourcing offices . are located in Shanghai, New York, Paris, Florence and Dallas. A state-of-the-art R&D laboratory in West Sussex houses four individual R&D teams (colour cosmetics, skin care, hair care and bath & body) that work closely with a highly innovative packaging development team headed up by Patrick Poitevin. Trend prediction and overall direction for product development is led by COSis product marketing team who have completely embraced the global marketplace. COSi has won numerous awards for innovation, manufacturing and employee development.
Patrick Poitevin Packaging Development & Innovation Manager COSi Ltd Watersmead Business Park Littlehampton West Sussex BN17 6LS UK T +44 (0)1903 278 000 F +44 (0)1903 278 004 patrick.poitevin@cosiworld.com www.cosiworld.com
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He is the packaging specialist of the innovation team and brings to the table a fresh approach and a sound technical knowledge. His fields of interest are new packaging materials, packaging design and logistics. Outside work Johannes spends time playing in his rock band and snow boarding. The Innovation Centre, with a focus on creativity in problem solving, intelligent research capabilities and knowledge management, offers an unprecedented service to ColepCCL customers. Working as s a central network hub of knowledge, the Innovation Centre also draws on expertise from suppliers, academic institutions and industries outside ColepCCL normal sphere s of operation, to bring to customers the most attractive ideas and solutions. This dynamic approach, and the use of an innovation process management system tailored to customer needs, supports the vision to reshape the packaging industry. With a multinational and multidisciplinary group of trained people, ColepCCL Innovation s Centre enhances the strategy to deliver a full package solution to the customer, including rapid prototyping and product formulation in high-end state-of-the-art facilities (European Centre of Application Technology). ColepCCL is Europes largest contract manufacturer of personal care, cosmetic, overthe-counter pharmaceutical and household products. The company was founded in 2004 by the merger of Colep, the Portuguese producer of steel aerosol and general line cans and an aerosol filler, and CCL Europe, contract manufacturer of various products and a subsidiary of CCL Industries in Canada. ColepCCL is a pan-European group in Germany, Portugal, Spain, Poland and the UK. The group has a turnover of around 300 million (~200 million) and employs 2,100 people throughout Europe. 53
Johannes Schampel Packaging Specialist ColepCCL UK Ltd Atkinson Way Foxhills Industrial Park Scunthorpe DN15 8QJ UK T +49 173 945 9850 johannes.schampel@colepccl.com www.colepccl.com Johannes joined ColepCCL in March 2006, as the Innovation Centre was launched, as a graduate of Packaging Engineering from the University of Applied Sciences, Stuttgart. As part of his studies, he worked in collaboration with several partners in the FMCG, pharmaceutical, food and automation industries.
Brian Knott Materials Advisor Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3) 1 Carlton House Terrace London SW1Y 5DB UK T +44 (0)1494 528 718 brian.knott@iom3.org www.iom3.org
Brian Knott is a Materials Advisor working for the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3). With a background in failure analysis his major role is to provide help and guidance to industrial companies on selection of the appropriate material and manufacturing process for a given requirement. In addition he has been actively engaged in IOM3s efforts to link the materials and the design community through the Materials and Design Exchange (MADE), the new design node of the DTIs Materials KTN. One of his major responsibilities under MADE has been the organisation of a series of workshops that address technology awareness needs for the design community both in London and the regions. The workshop topics include nanotechnology, new materials, medical devices and green polymers. He is also aiding the development of a physical resource centre which will eventually have over 600 separate material samples suitably catalogued with supporting information.
54
Phil Richardson, a strategy and process consultant, runs the consulting division of Thoughtcrew Ltd. He is responsible for managing a range of business transformation programmes for leading blue-chip organisations and local government. In this role he provides challenge and leadership in combined consulting and client teams aimed at significantly improving the clients business condition. Phil is researching a PhD in biomimetics at the University of Bath; he is also an associate lecturer for the Open University Business School MBA and a Chartered Biologist. Thoughtcrew Ltd was formed in 2000 to provide a peer-level support service to busy executives needing to define and deliver significant change. It specialises in process thinking, strategic challenge and a clear focus on the customer. Projects are delivered collaboratively with clients. In most cases, Thoughtcrew gets involved in the How do I sell this idea to my executive colleagues stage of thinking, then works through until the problem is solved and the results are realised.
Phil Richardson Director of Consulting Thoughtcrew Ltd Mill House Carlingcott Bath BA2 8AP UK T +44 (0)208 133 4728 F +44 (0)870 133 6532 www.thoughtcrew.net
55
Appendix D
LIST OF EXHIBITS
Exhibit Page Caption 1.1 7 Mission team at the Radisson Hotel, Berlin; L Matthias Gester, Geoff -R: Hollington, Martin Kemp, Julian Vincent, Cathy Barnes, Patrick Poitevin (front), Johannes Schampel (behind), Brian Knott, Phil Richardson Fingerprint-free coatings on highly shiny metallised and anodised personal care components (courtesy COSi) Ink-jet printing for displays and biomedical applications (courtesy Philips) Dynamic wetting of porous Teflon surfaces based on lotus leaf (courtesy University of Cambridge) Lotus effect on textiles (courtesy ITV) Coating containing electrostatic particles (courtesy ITV) Composite profiles modelled on plant stems (courtesy ITV) Transparent light transfer inspired by polar bear hair (courtesy ITV/P Poitevin) Aerodynamics application by DaimlerChrysler (courtesy BIOKON, Germany) Dry adhesive (courtesy Max Planck Institute for Metals Research, Stuttgart) Dry adhesive applications (courtesy Max Planck Institute for Metals Research, Stuttgart) Head-arresting system in dragonflies (courtesy Max Planck Institute for Metals Research, Stuttgart) Models from trees, bamboos and vines used for construction in aircraft, cars, roofs and bridges (courtesy University of Freiburg) Glass fibre construction (courtesy Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Berlin) Cell wall constructions for wood (courtesy Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Berlin) Acoustic camera (courtesy Gesellschaft zur Frderung angewandter Informatik GFaI, Berlin) Surface applications inspired by penguins, lotus leaves, dolphins, sharks, geckos and sandfish (courtesy BIOKON, Germany) Fin ray effect used for ergonomic chair (courtesy BIOKON, Germany/ P Poitevin) Fin ray effect can also be used in the packaging printing industry, such as glass, where tolerances are too large for proper jig printing (courtesy BIOKON, Germany/P Poitevin) Modular walking robots (courtesy University of Applied Sciences, MagdeburgStendal) Reduction of materials conception (courtesy Dr Mirtsch/P Poitevin)
3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 3.8 3.9 3.10 3.11 3.12 3.13 3.14 3.15 3.16 3.17 3.18
14 14 14 15 15 15 15 16 16 16 16 17 17 17 18 18 18 19
3.19 3.20
19 19
56
Exhibit Page Caption 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 21 22 22 23 23 24 25 Metal trees supporting the roof of Stuttgart Airport (courtesy www.stuttgart-airport.com) Optimum structure for a centrally loaded beam after 10 iterations (courtesy Prof Claus Mattheck) Bionic car concept by DaimlerChrysler Cilium-like plate created by Philips Multiple cilia incorporated in a microchannel by Philips Dry adhesives Schematic cross section of the tentacle of the loliginid squid. The tentacle is surrounded by longitudinal and helical muscle layers (LML and HML). The cross section contains a ring of longitudinal muscle bundles (LMB) which are enclosed by transverse and circular muscle fibres (TMF and CMF) Endo-Periscope developed by University of Delft in cooperation with Tokyo Institute of Technology ITVs filter system equipment with the filter tube in the pipe on the right side ITVs braided bag filter (a) stretched, (b) relaxed Fin ray Spherical array, 32-channel acoustic camera system for interior use Bionic propeller from EvoLogics GmbH Model of stem structure Technical plant stem developed by University of Freiburg in collaboration with ITV Denkendorf Business development for biomimetic compared to normal ideas (after Bannasch) Biology does things differently to human technology Top-down process of biomimetics (courtesy University of Freiburg) Bottom-up process of biomimetics (courtesy University of Freiburg) Map of BIOKON network (courtesy BIOKON)
4.8 4.9 4.10 4.11 4.12 4.13 4.14 4.15
25 26 26 27 27 28 28 29
5.1
32
6.1 7 .1 7 .2 B.1
36 38 39 46
57
Appendix E
GLOSSARY
~ % $ V L m 3D AG ASME BBSRC BIOKON BIONIS BMBF CAD cm CMF COSi Cr DBU DERA DOF Dr DSc DTI EPSRC ESA EU F FE FMCG FPP GFaI GmbH HML hp HQ 58
approximately approximately equal to per cent euro (1 0.681 $1.31, Mar 07) pound sterling (1 1.47 $1.93, Mar 07) US dollar ($1 0.519 0.762, Mar 07) voltage difference microlitre = 10-6 L = 10-9 m3 micrometre = 10-6 m three-dimensional Aktiengesellschaft shareholding company American Society of Mechanical Engineers (USA) Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (UK) Bionik-Kompetenz-Netz Bionics Competence Network (Germany) Biomimetics Network for Industrial Sustainability (UK) Bundesministerium fr Bildung und Forschung Federal Ministry of Education and Research (Germany) computer-aided design centimetre = 0.01 m circular muscle fibre Creative Outsourcing Solutions International chromium Deutsche Bundesstiftung Umwelt German Environment Foundation Defence Evaluation and Research Agency (MOD, UK) degree of freedom Doctor Doctor of Science Department of Trade and Industry (UK) Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (UK) European Space Agency European Union fax finite element fast-moving consumer good(s) Faraday Packaging Partnership a specialist applications node of the Materials Knowledge Transfer Network (UK) Gesellschaft zur Frderung angewandter Informatik Society for the Promotion of Applied Computer Science (Berlin, Germany) Gesellschaft mit beschrnkter Haftung limited company helical muscle layer horsepower = 745.7 W headquarters
IDEA IOM3 IR ITV J kg KTN L LMB LML Ltd m m3 M MADE MBA mm MOD MPI N nm P&G PC PhD R R&D s SiO2 SKO SME T TMF TRIZ TU UK US(A) UV V VDI W
Industrial Design Excellence Award Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (UK) infrared Institut fr Textil- und Verfahrenstechnik Institute for Textile Technology and Process Engineering (Denkendorf, Germany) joule unit of work or energy = 1 N m = 1 W s kilogram Knowledge Transfer Network (UK) (1) left (2) litre = 0.001 m3 longitudinal muscle bundle longitudinal muscle layer Limited (company) metre cubic metre mobile (telephone) Materials and Design Exchange (design node of the Materials KTN, UK) Master of Business Administration millimetre = 0.001 m Ministry of Defence (UK) Max Planck Institute (Germany) newton unit of force = 1 kg m/s2 nanometre = 10-9 m Procter & Gamble personal computer Doctor of Philosophy right research and development second silicon dioxide soft kill option small or medium-sized enterprise telephone transverse muscle fibre Teorija Reshenija Izobretatelskih Zadach Theory of Inventive Problem Solving Technical University United Kingdom United States (of America) ultraviolet voltage Verein Deutscher Ingenieure Association of German Engineers watt unit of power = 1 J/s 59
Appendix F
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
We would like to thank the following for their help in making this mission such a success: His Excellency the British Ambassador to the Netherlands, Lyn Parker Professor Rudolf Bannasch Dr Ingo Klein Professor Jaap den Toonder Professor Peter Fratzl Professor Stanislav Gorb Dr Ulrike G K Wegst Dr Dagmar Voigt Mr Leo Zonneveld Dr Konrad Gtz Professor Dr C M Jonker Dr Jules S Scheltes Dr Thomas Stegmaier Dr Tom Masselter And a special mention for helping behind the scenes: Robert Dugon, DTI Sarah Woodman, FCM Travel Charlotte Leiper, Pera Sarah Fenn, FPP
60
Other DTI products that help UK businesses acquire and exploit new technologies
Grant for Research and Development is available through the nine English Regional Development Agencies. The Grant for Research and Development provides funds for individuals and SMEs to research and develop technologically innovative products and processes. The grant is only available in England (the Devolved Administrations have their own initiatives). www.dti.gov.uk/r-d/ The Small Firms Loan Guarantee is a UKwide, Government-backed scheme that provides guarantees on loans for start-ups and young businesses with viable business propositions. www.dti.gov.uk/sflg/pdfs/sflg_booklet.pdf Knowledge Transfer Partnerships enable private and public sector research organisations to apply their research knowledge to important business problems. Specific technology transfer projects are managed, over a period of one to three years, in partnership with a university, college or research organisation that has expertise relevant to your business. www.ktponline.org.uk/ Knowledge Transfer Networks aim to improve the UKs innovation performance through a single national over-arching network in a specific field of technology or business application. A KTN aims to encourage active participation of all networks currently operating in the field and to establish connections with networks in other fields that have common interest. www.dti.gov.uk/ktn/ Collaborative Research and Development helps industry and research communities work together on R&D projects in strategically important areas of science, engineering and technology, from which successful new products, processes and services can emerge. www.dti.gov.uk/crd/ Access to Best Business Practice is available through the Business Link network. This initiative aims to ensure UK business has access to best business practice information for improved performance. www.dti.gov.uk/bestpractice/ Support to Implement Best Business Practice offers practical, tailored support for small and medium-sized businesses to implement best practice business improvements. www.dti.gov.uk/implementbestpractice/ Finance to Encourage Investment in Selected Areas of England is designed to support businesses looking at the possibility of investing in a designated Assisted Area but needing financial help to realise their plans, normally in the form of a grant or occasionally a loan. www.dti.gov.uk/regionalinvestment/
Printed in the UK on recycled paper with 75% de-inked post-consumer waste content First published in March 2007 by Pera on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry Crown copyright 2007 URN 07/504

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GLOBAL WATCH MISSION REPORT

Biomimetics: strategies for product design inspired by nature

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4

4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

4.7 .1 4.7 .2 4.7 .3 4.7 .4 4.7 .5 4.7 .6 4.7 .7 5

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

COMMERCIAL VALUE OF BIOMIMETICS

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

BACKGROUND TO BIOMIMETICS Julian Vincent

2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6

Introduction Flight Architecture Textiles Typical topics Information retrieval

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

EXAMPLES OF BIOMIMETIC APPLICATIONS: BIOLOGICALLY INSPIRED PACKAGING Patrick Poitevin

3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

DEAM University of Delft, the Netherlands

Procter & Gamble/Gillette, Reading, UK

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

Exhibit 3.4 Lotus effect on textiles (courtesy ITV)

Exhibit 3.5 Coating containing electrostatic particles (courtesy ITV)

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

DaimlerChrysler Research and Technology, Ulm, Germany

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

University of Freiburg, Plant Biomechanics Group, Germany

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

BIOKON/EvoLogics GmbH, F&E Labor Bionik, Berlin, Germany

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

Exhibit 3.20 Reduction of materials conception (courtesy Dr Mirtsch/P Poitevin)

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

APPLICATION OF BIOMIMETICS IN OTHER INDUSTRIES Brian Knott and Johannes Schampel

4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

Exhibit 4.3 Bionic car concept by DaimlerChrysler

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

Exhibit 4.5 Multiple cilia incorporated in a microchannel by Philips

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

Exhibit 4.6 Dry adhesives

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

Exhibit 4.11 Fin ray

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

Plants as concept generators

EvoLogics GmbH, Berlin

Exhibit 4.13 Bionic propeller from EvoLogics GmbH

Exhibit 4.14 Model of stem structure

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

BIOMIMETICS: STRATEGIES FOR PRODUCT DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE

COMMERCIAL VALUE OF BIOMIMETICS Martin Kemp

5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4