Biomimetics

10 pages, 2195 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Preparation of a Novel Type of Zwitterionic Polymer and the Antifouling PDMS Coating

by Xutao Ma, Xiaohui Fu and Jing Sun

Biomimetics 2022, 7(2), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics7020050 - 21 Apr 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3729

As awareness of environmental protection increases, environmentally friendly coatings have been receiving great interest. Zwitterionic polymers are considered promising candidates due to their biocompatibility and excellent antifouling properties. In this paper, a type of polypeptoid containing zwitterions on the side chain was synthesized [...] Read more.

As awareness of environmental protection increases, environmentally friendly coatings have been receiving great interest. Zwitterionic polymers are considered promising candidates due to their biocompatibility and excellent antifouling properties. In this paper, a type of polypeptoid containing zwitterions on the side chain was synthesized via ring-opening polymerization (ROP) and post-modification. This obtained polypeptoid was subsequently grafted onto the surface of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) via plasma and UV-induced surface polymerization. Surface morphology and protein adsorption tests of the resulting coating were systematically carried out. The results show that the modified coating has excellent antifouling properties and thus has great potential for environmentally friendly coating applications. Full article

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11 pages, 2045 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceCommunication

Bioinspired Photo-Responsive Liquid Gating Membrane

by Rongrong Zhang, Jinmei Lei, Jiadai Xu, Hexuan Fu, Yuan Jing, Baiyi Chen and Xu Hou

Biomimetics 2022, 7(2), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics7020047 - 18 Apr 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4479

Abstract

Stomata in the plant leaves are channels for gas exchange between the plants and the atmosphere. The gas exchange rate can be regulated by adjusting the opening and closing of stoma under the external stimuli, which plays a vital role in plant survival. [...] Read more.

Stomata in the plant leaves are channels for gas exchange between the plants and the atmosphere. The gas exchange rate can be regulated by adjusting the opening and closing of stoma under the external stimuli, which plays a vital role in plant survival. Under visible light irradiation, the stomata open for gas exchange with the surroundings, while under intense UV light irradiation, the stomata close to prevent the moisture loss of plants from excessive transpiration. Inspired by this stomatal self-protection behavior, we have constructed a bioinspired photo-responsive liquid gating membrane (BPRLGM) through infusing the photo-responsive gating liquid obtained by dissolving the azobenzene-based photo-responsive surfactant molecules (AzoC₈F₁₅) in N,N-Dimethylacetamide (DMAC) into nylon porous substrate, which can reversibly switch the open/closed states under different photo-stimuli. Theoretical analysis and experimental data have demonstrated that the reversible photoisomerization of azobenzene-based surfactant molecules induces a change in surface tension of the photo-responsive gating liquid, which eventually results in the reversible variation of substantial critical pressure for gas through BPRLGM under alternating UV (P_Critical _(off)) and visible (P_Critical _(on)) light irradiations. Therefore, driven by a pressure difference ΔP between P_Critical _(on) and P_Critical _(off), the reversible switches on the open/closed states of this photo-responsive liquid gating membrane can be realized under photo-stimuli. This bioinspired membrane with switchable open/closed liquid gating performance under photo-stimuli has the opportunity to be used in the precise and contactless control of microfluidics. Full article

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18 pages, 10777 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Bio-Inspired Propulsion: Towards Understanding the Role of Pectoral Fin Kinematics in Manta-like Swimming

by Alec Menzer, Yuchen Gong, Frank E. Fish and Haibo Dong

Biomimetics 2022, 7(2), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics7020045 - 15 Apr 2022

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 6352

Abstract

Through computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of a model manta ray body, the hydrodynamic role of manta-like bioinspired flapping is investigated. The manta ray model motion is reconstructed from synchronized high-resolution videos of manta ray swimming. Rotation angles of the model skeletal joints [...] Read more.

Through computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of a model manta ray body, the hydrodynamic role of manta-like bioinspired flapping is investigated. The manta ray model motion is reconstructed from synchronized high-resolution videos of manta ray swimming. Rotation angles of the model skeletal joints are altered to scale the pitching and bending, resulting in eight models with different pectoral fin pitching and bending ratios. Simulations are performed using an in-house developed immersed boundary method-based numerical solver. Pectoral fin pitching ratio (PR) is found to have significant implications in the thrust and efficiency of the manta model. This occurs due to more optimal vortex formation and shedding caused by the lower pitching ratio. Leading edge vortexes (LEVs) formed on the bottom of the fin, a characteristic of the higher PR cases, produced parasitic low pressure that hinders thrust force. Lowering the PR reduces the influence of this vortex while another LEV that forms on the top surface of the fin strengthens it. A moderately high bending ratio (BR) can slightly reduce power consumption. Finally, by combining a moderately high BR = 0.83 with PR = 0.67, further performance improvements can be made. This enhanced understanding of manta-inspired propulsive mechanics fills a gap in our understanding of the manta-like mobuliform locomotion. This motivates a new generation of manta-inspired robots that can mimic the high speed and efficiency of their biological counterpart. Full article

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18 pages, 10097 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Recent Advances in Computational Modeling of Biomechanics and Biorheology of Red Blood Cells in Diabetes

by Yi-Xiang Deng, Hung-Yu Chang and He Li

Biomimetics 2022, 7(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics7010015 - 13 Jan 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4465

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus, a metabolic disease characterized by chronically elevated blood glucose levels, affects about 29 million Americans and more than 422 million adults all over the world. Particularly, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) accounts for 90–95% of the cases of vascular disease and [...] Read more.

Diabetes mellitus, a metabolic disease characterized by chronically elevated blood glucose levels, affects about 29 million Americans and more than 422 million adults all over the world. Particularly, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) accounts for 90–95% of the cases of vascular disease and its prevalence is increasing due to the rising obesity rates in modern societies. Although multiple factors associated with diabetes, such as reduced red blood cell (RBC) deformability, enhanced RBC aggregation and adhesion to the endothelium, as well as elevated blood viscosity are thought to contribute to the hemodynamic impairment and vascular occlusion, clinical or experimental studies cannot directly quantify the contributions of these factors to the abnormal hematology in T2DM. Recently, computational modeling has been employed to dissect the impacts of the aberrant biomechanics of diabetic RBCs and their adverse effects on microcirculation. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in the developments and applications of computational models in investigating the abnormal properties of diabetic blood from the cellular level to the vascular level. We expect that this review will motivate and steer the development of new models in this area and shift the attention of the community from conventional laboratory studies to combined experimental and computational investigations, aiming to provide new inspirations for the development of advanced tools to improve our understanding of the pathogenesis and pathology of T2DM. Full article

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28 pages, 45722 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Structural Sizing and Topology Optimization Based on Weight Minimization of a Variable Tapered Span-Morphing Wing for Aerodynamic Performance Improvements

by Mohamed Elelwi, Ruxandra Mihaela Botez and Thien-My Dao

Biomimetics 2021, 6(4), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics6040055 - 26 Sep 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 5938

Abstract

This article proposes the integration of structural sizing, topology, and aerodynamic optimization for a morphing variable span of tapered wing (MVSTW) with the aim to minimize its weight. In order to evaluate the feasibility of the morphing wing optimization, this work creates a [...] Read more.

This article proposes the integration of structural sizing, topology, and aerodynamic optimization for a morphing variable span of tapered wing (MVSTW) with the aim to minimize its weight. In order to evaluate the feasibility of the morphing wing optimization, this work creates a numerical environment by incorporating simultaneous structural sizing and topology optimization based on its aerodynamic analysis. This novel approach is proposed for an MVSTW. A problem-specific optimization approach to determine the minimum weight structure of the wing components for its fixed and moving segments is firstly presented. The optimization was performed using the OptiStruct solver inside HyperMesh. This investigation seeks to minimize total structure compliance while maximizing stiffness in order to satisfy the structural integrity requirements of the MVSTW. The aerodynamic load distribution along the wingspan at full wingspan extension and maximum speed were considered in the optimization processes. The wing components were optimized for size and topology, and all of them were built from aluminum alloy 2024-T3. The optimization results show that weight savings of up to 51.2% and 55.7% were obtained for fixed and moving wing segments, respectively. Based on these results, the optimized variable-span morphing wing can perform certain flight missions perfectly without experiencing any mechanical failures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aircraft Morphing Systems 2.0)

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22 pages, 10560 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

New Aerodynamic Studies of an Adaptive Winglet Application on the Regional Jet CRJ700

by Marine Segui, Federico R. Abel, Ruxandra M. Botez and Alessandro Ceruti

Biomimetics 2021, 6(4), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics6040054 - 24 Sep 2021

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 6970

Abstract

This study aims to evaluates how an adaptive winglet during flight can improve aircraft aerodynamic characteristics of the CRJ700. The aircraft geometry was slightly modified to integrate a one-rotation axis adaptive winglet. Aerodynamic characteristics of the new adaptive design were computed using a [...] Read more.

This study aims to evaluates how an adaptive winglet during flight can improve aircraft aerodynamic characteristics of the CRJ700. The aircraft geometry was slightly modified to integrate a one-rotation axis adaptive winglet. Aerodynamic characteristics of the new adaptive design were computed using a validated high-fidelity aerodynamic model developed with the open-source code OpenFoam. The aerodynamic model successively uses the two solvers simpleFoam and rhoSimpleFoam based on Reynold Averaged Navier Stokes equations. Characteristics of the adaptive winglet design were studied for 16 flight conditions, representative of climb and cruise usually considered by the CRJ700. The adaptive winglet can increase the lift-to-drag ratio by up to 6.10% and reduce the drag coefficient by up to 2.65%. This study also compared the aerodynamic polar and pitching moment coefficients variations of the Bombardier CRJ700 equipped with an adaptive versus a fixed winglet. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aircraft Morphing Systems 2.0)

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14 pages, 7563 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Biomimetics and Education in Europe: Challenges, Opportunities, and Variety

by Olga Speck and Thomas Speck

Biomimetics 2021, 6(3), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics6030049 - 4 Aug 2021

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 8828

Abstract

Biomimetics is an interdisciplinary field of science that deals with the analysis and systematic transfer of biological insights into technical applications. Moreover, the development of biomimetic products helps to improve our understanding of biological concept generators (reverse biomimetics). What does this mean for [...] Read more.

Biomimetics is an interdisciplinary field of science that deals with the analysis and systematic transfer of biological insights into technical applications. Moreover, the development of biomimetic products helps to improve our understanding of biological concept generators (reverse biomimetics). What does this mean for the education of kindergarten children, pupils, students, teachers, and others interested in biomimetics? The challenge of biomimetics is to have a solid knowledge base in the scientific disciplines involved and the competency to be open-minded enough to develop innovative solutions. This apparently contradictory combination ensures the transfer of knowledge from biology to engineering and vice versa on the basis of a common language that is perfectly understandable to everyone, e.g., the language of models, algorithms, and complete mathematical formulations. The opportunity within biomimetics is its ability to arouse student interest in technology via the fascination inherent in biological solutions and to awaken enthusiasm for living nature via the understanding of technology. Collaboration in working groups promotes professional, social, and personal skills. The variety of biomimetics is mirrored by the large number of educational modules developed with respect to existing biomimetic products and methods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomimetic Process and Pedagogy)

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21 pages, 12464 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Self-Actuated Paper and Wood Models: Low-Cost Handcrafted Biomimetic Compliant Systems for Research and Teaching

by Simon Poppinga, Pablo Schenck, Olga Speck, Thomas Speck, Bernd Bruchmann and Tom Masselter

Biomimetics 2021, 6(3), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics6030042 - 22 Jun 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4835

Abstract

The abstraction and implementation of plant movement principles into biomimetic compliant systems are of increasing interest for technical applications, e.g., in architecture, medicine, and soft robotics. Within the respective research and development approaches, advanced methods such as 4D printing or 3D-braiding pultrusion are [...] Read more.

The abstraction and implementation of plant movement principles into biomimetic compliant systems are of increasing interest for technical applications, e.g., in architecture, medicine, and soft robotics. Within the respective research and development approaches, advanced methods such as 4D printing or 3D-braiding pultrusion are typically used to generate proof-of-concept demonstrators at the laboratory or demonstrator scale. However, such techniques are generally time-consuming, complicated, and cost-intensive, which often impede the rapid realization of a sufficient number of demonstrators for testing or teaching. Therefore, we have produced comparable simple handcrafted compliant systems based on paper, wood, plastic foil, and/or glue as construction materials. A variety of complex plant movement principles have been transferred into these low-cost physical demonstrators, which are self-actuated by shrinking processes induced by the anisotropic hygroscopic properties of wood or paper. The developed systems have a high potential for fast, precise, and low-cost abstraction and transfer processes in biomimetic approaches and for the “hands-on understanding” of plant movements in applied university and school courses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bridging the Gap: From Biomechanics and Functional Morphology of Plants to Biomimetic Developments)

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14 pages, 6386 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Design of a Depth Control Mechanism for an Anguilliform Swimming Robot

by Ahmed Islam and Brandon Taravella

Biomimetics 2021, 6(2), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics6020039 - 9 Jun 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3911

Abstract

This paper discusses the design and implementation of a depth control mechanism for an anguilliform swimming robot. Researchers analyzed three different methods of controlling the depth of the robot, including out-of-plane thrust direction, use of foil on the head and buoyancy control at [...] Read more.

This paper discusses the design and implementation of a depth control mechanism for an anguilliform swimming robot. Researchers analyzed three different methods of controlling the depth of the robot, including out-of-plane thrust direction, use of foil on the head and buoyancy control at the head and tail. It was determined that buoyancy control at the head and tail was the best method for controlling depth and pitch, given typical forward speeds of the robot. Details are given into the design of this mechanism, including a stress analysis on a critical part, as well as the impacts that these modifications have on the required torque of the drive servos. Full article

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14 pages, 6882 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Textured Building Façades: Utilizing Morphological Adaptations Found in Nature for Evaporative Cooling

by Megan Peeks and Lidia Badarnah

Biomimetics 2021, 6(2), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics6020024 - 29 Mar 2021

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 6213

Abstract

The overheating of buildings and their need for mechanical cooling is a growing issue as a result of climate change. The main aim of this paper is to examine the impact of surface texture on heat loss capabilities of concrete panels through evaporative [...] Read more.

The overheating of buildings and their need for mechanical cooling is a growing issue as a result of climate change. The main aim of this paper is to examine the impact of surface texture on heat loss capabilities of concrete panels through evaporative cooling. Organisms maintain their body temperature in very narrow ranges in order to survive, where they employ morphological and behavioral means to complement physiological strategies for adaptation. This research follows a biomimetic approach to develop a design solution. The skin morphology of elephants was identified as a successful example that utilizes evaporative cooling and has, therefore, informed the realization of a textured façade panel. A systematic process has been undertaken to examine the impact of different variables on the cooling ability of the panels, bringing in new morphological considerations for surface texture. The results showed that the morphological variables of assembly and depth of texture have impact on heat loss, and the impact of surface area to volume (SA:V) ratios on heat loss capabilities varies for different surface roughness. This study demonstrates the potential exploitation of morphological adaptation to buildings, that could contribute to them cooling passively and reduce the need for expensive and energy consuming mechanical systems. Furthermore, it suggests areas for further investigation and opens new avenues for novel thermal solutions inspired by nature for the built environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomimetic Architectural and Urban Design)

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20 pages, 6257 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Bio-Inspired Design of a Porous Resorbable Scaffold for Bone Reconstruction: A Preliminary Study

by Daria Scerrato, Alberto Maria Bersani and Ivan Giorgio

Biomimetics 2021, 6(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics6010018 - 10 Mar 2021

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 4694

Abstract

The study and imitation of the biological and mechanical systems present in nature and living beings always have been sources of inspiration for improving existent technologies and establishing new ones. Pursuing this line of thought, we consider an artificial graft typical in the [...] Read more.

The study and imitation of the biological and mechanical systems present in nature and living beings always have been sources of inspiration for improving existent technologies and establishing new ones. Pursuing this line of thought, we consider an artificial graft typical in the bone reconstruction surgery with the same microstructure of the bone living tissue and examine the interaction between these two phases, namely bone and the graft material. Specifically, a visco-poroelastic second gradient model is adopted for the bone-graft composite system to describe it at a macroscopic level of observation. The second gradient formulation is employed to consider possibly size effects and as a macroscopic source of interstitial fluid flow, which is usually regarded as a key factor in bone remodeling. With the help of the proposed formulation and via a simple example, we show that the model can be used as a graft design tool. As a matter of fact, an optimization of the characteristics of the implant can be carried out by numerical investigations. In this paper, we observe that the size of the graft considerably influences the interaction between bone tissue and artificial bio-resorbable material and the possibility that the bone tissue might substitute more or less partially the foreign graft for better bone healing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioinspired Intelligence II)

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