Bio-mimicry Design Challenge Due 4/1/2012

Use your biology knowledge to design engineering solutions! An aspect of fish anatomy or swimming technique could be used to propel a SeaPerch ROV!?

See the Bio-mimicry Design Challenge design due 4/1/2012, register by 2/1/2012

See link for details, summary:

(1) Design challenge selected. Design challenges are something people would like to see solved through invention, such as footwear that is more stable on ice, tape rolls with easier‐to-find ends, adhesives which don’t contain toxins, etc. Design challenges selected by contestants are evaluated for creativity and importance (i.e., impact on human quality of life and/or sustainability). Either local or larger--‐scale challenges are acceptable.

(2) Biological model(s) identified. Biological models are elements in the natural world (such as species, ecosystems, cellular tissues, etc.) which provide insight into how to solve design challenges. For instance, a biological model for inventing non‐toxic adhesives could be gecko lizards or mussels. Biological model(s) selected by contestants are evaluated for: the quality of explanation as to why their models likely provide key insights into solving the design challenge identified, demonstrated understanding of the relevant biological mechanism(s), and use of secondary sources of information (with proper citation).

(3) Original research and/or design. Biomimicry entails biological research and/or technological research and development. Original research and/or design undertaken by contestants is evaluated for: the quality of the research process for studying the relevant biological mechanism, and/or for the quality of the process of emulating, prototyping, or testing a technology inspired by the biological model(s).