Biomimicry: Inspired by Nature we are Harnessing the Principles of Sharkskin, Lotus, Dragonfly, Butterflies, Moth Eyes, and More
Biomimicry, also known as bio-mimicking or biomimetics, is an interdisciplinary field that involves emulating and deriving inspiration from nature. There is a lot that we can learn from studying biological systems and processes to solve complex problems and develop innovative technologies. Many industries encompass biomimicry – great innovations in material sciences for aerospace, automotive and robotics include the structures of nacre (mother-of-pearl) to develop strong and lightweight composite material, or the development of gecko-inspired dry adhesives that can adhere to various surfaces and underwater adhesives inspired by marine organisms. Innovations in medicine and sustainability range from designing prosthetic limbs to water purification systems or building design, showing the wide range of applications that biomimicry is influencing.
Active in functional surfaces, 3D AG has been specifically interested in following application developments of bio-mimicking in engineering and surface materials. Among other projects, we have been closely involved in developing riblet structures for drag reduction inspired from sharkskin, antibacterial nanopillars inspired by dragonfly, water repellent structures inspired by lotus and the iridescence of the blue morpho butterfly in photonics.
Co-Development and Fabrication of Biomimetic Structures: Drag Reduction Sharkskin, Water Repelling Lotus, Anti-bacterial Dragonfly, Light trapping Butterflies Wings, Antireflective Coatings for Optical Devices from Moth Eyes
The challenge in biomimetics lies in the inherent complexity of biological structures. Unlike artificially manufactured structures, organic phenomena grow and develop naturally, achieving a unique perfection within their imperfections. However, when it comes to applying bio-inspired structures in end-products, ensuring their successful replication becomes crucial. Demolding these structures can be particularly challenging, especially for intricate 3D elements or undercuts that require high fidelity transfer.
At 3D AG, we have extensive experience in upscaling bio-mimicking structures through numerous projects. In close collaboration with our fabrication partners, we have achieved successful transfers of bio-mimicking structures onto nickel shims. This enables further replication in thin films and optics, ensuring accurate reproduction of the natural phenomena. We are eager to collaborate with you on projects aimed at realizing natural phenomena, whether for research purposes or direct applications. By harnessing the power of biomimetics, we can unlock innovative solutions that emulate and harness the efficiency and beauty found in the natural world.
WHY 3D AG?
Unleash Nature's Potential with 3D AG: Revolutionizing Biomimetics for Limitless Applications. Our cutting-edge technologies redefine the possibilities of biomimetic solutions in diverse products. By harnessing nature's wisdom, our innovations drive innovation, tackle complex challenges, advance technology, and pave the way for a more sustainable future. Partner with us to unlock the full potential of bio-mimicking.
Upscaling of Biomimetic Structures
In the realm of applied biomimetics, the initial crucial step involves fabricating the biomimetic structure and ensuring successful replication through electroforming. Once replication feasibility is established, the next stage entails upscaling these structures to larger dimensions. Depending on the specific structure, two key techniques can be employed: UV step-and-repeat or laser welding.
For structures that exhibit good transfer properties and can tolerate slight shrinkage, UV step-and-repeat imprinting stands as the optimal technology. This technique enables the management of complex layouts, ensuring high fidelity replication at a large scale. On the other hand, for particularly challenging structures, we have achieved successful upscaling by employing laser welding to fuse shims into simpler layouts.
Nature serves as our inspiration, enabling us to bring the wonders of biomimicry into a wide range of products. Through the utilization of advanced fabrication techniques and replication processes, we can unlock the potential of biomimetics and create innovative solutions that harness the efficiency and elegance found in the natural world.
