ENGINEERING
What is biomimicry?
Biomimicry is the science of studying nature for the purpose of incoporating its functions and characteristics into the modern technology.
Biomimicry is derived from the greek meaning
bios-life
mimesis-immitate
Terminologies of biomimicry
1.biomimetics
2.bio-inspired
3. bionic /bionics
What are the 3 perceptions of biomimicry on nature?
1.Model
2.Measure
3.Mentor
What is the main objective of biomimicry?
To design innovative solutions that are sustainable and harmonious with the environment.
State the 3 values of biomimicry.
1. Design Value
2. Community Value
3. Project Value
What does model mean?
Nature provides blueprints for design (e.g., how birds
fly or how plants manage water).
What does measure mean?
Measure – Nature sets performance standards that can guide
sustainable and efficient design
What does mentor mean?
Nature is a wise teacher, inspiring a new way of seeing and solving problems.
What is biomimicry design process?
Design approach that takes inspiration from nature to solve human challenges.
There are 2 main approaches in biomimicry design process. Name them.
1. Solution-based approach
(bottom-up)
2. Problem-based approach
(top-down)
List the 6 steps of problem-based approach and explain each step.
1. Define – Identify what the design must achieve
2. Biologize – Translate the problem into biological terms.
3. Discover Biological Strategies– Find how nature addresses similar challenges.
4. Abstract Design Strategies– Understand the biological mechanisms and simplify them into design principles.
5. Emulate – Create design concepts using the abstracted natural strategies.
6. Evaluate – Test the design against original goals and refine if needed.
List all the steps of Solution-based approach and explain each of them in simple terms.
Biological Solution Identification – Research and
observe a natural feature.
2. Define Biological Solution – Clearly describe what
solution nature has provided.
3. Principle Extraction – Identify general concepts
4. Reframe Solution – Describe how this natural idea could
be useful to humans.
5. Problem Search – Look for human problems that fit the
bio-solution.
6. Problem Definition – Select and describe a relevant
problem.
7. Principle Application – Translate biological strategies
into engineering solutions.
According to Janine Benyus, there are 3 Types of Biomimicry. Name them.
i. Copying Form and Shape
ii. Copying a Process
iii. Mimicking at the Ecosystem Level
Chlorophyll A absorbs orage-red light and violet-blue light. What does chlorophyll B absorbs
Blue light
What is the main role of chlorophyll B?
Expand the absorbtion spectrum
Conjugated bonds are formed by
alternating single and double bonds which allows for free movements of electrons over them.
How does conjugated bondswork?
Conjugated π-bond systems lower the energy gap so visible photons can excite electrons.
Light energy is converted into chemical energy in a multi protein complex called
Photosystem
The 2 types of photosystems and where they can be found.
1.Photosystem I
2.Photosystem II
Both are found in the thylakoid membrane inside the chloroplast.
Each photosystem consist of
1) multiple antenna proteins containing 300-400 chlorophyll A & B molecules
2) other pigments like carotenoids
Photosystem is made up of
a) a light harvesting complex
b) a reaction center
Where did the electrons come from photosystem Ii?
Comes from the splitting of water, which releases oxygen as a waste product.
Where does the electron comes from the photosystem I?
Chloroplast electron transport chain
The light-dependent reaction begins in what photosystem? What are iys products after splitting water?
a) Photosystem II
b) 2 electrons, 2 hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom
What is the function of b⁶f?
Acts as an intermediate wire using energy from electrons to pump protons and build a gradient.
What is the electron acceptor called?
NADP+
Splitting of water is called
Photolysis
Photovotaic cells use what objects to maximize absorption?
Layered materials and nano textures
Solar panels are made up of smaller units called
Photovoltaic cells
What is photovoltaic means?
Means converting sunlight into electricity.