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Design@UArts Spring 2007 IDES201 Project Studio Tom ReynoldsCoordinators: Guido/ Michalik

Biomimicry Concepts


Biomimicry ConceptsOpossum’s Tail

The opossum’s tail is prehensile. It is not covered in hair which allows it to be used in variety of different ways; it acts as a third limb. It can wrap around many different things to hang, carry and support them climbing.

Application:

Rope with “opossum tail” at endfor picking up and carrying things.

Grip wrap for climbing trees thatdoes not damage tree at all.


Biomimicry ConceptsOpossum’s Tail Rope and Strapping

Model A- made with 1/2’’ rope

Model B- made with 2’’ nylon strapping

Model B had significantly better ability to hold things

A B


Biomimicry ConceptsHummingbird Beak

The beak of a Ruby-Throated Hummingbird serves multiple functionsjust as the beak of any bird does. Hummingbird’s beaks are shapedperfectly for getting nectar out of flowers, but are poorly shaped forcatching insects to survive.

Ruby-Throated Hummingbird’s beak has adapted to open wider bybending in the middle like a flexible piece of plastic.

Application:

Makes things able to open wider but stay rigid when not flexed.

Garden Tools


Biomimicry ConceptsHummingbird Beak Kitchen Aid

Kitchen Aid Model made from plastic cooking utensils, show how end openswider to grab more food.

Model Drawing with improvements forthe opening and closing mechanism.