I think that the most important thing is to define the functions. This must be done in a neutral way which makes no assumptions about how the function is delivered, and so can bridge both biology and engineering.
Also, I don't know whether it should be thermoregulation IN butterfly wings, or OF or BY. I would go for BY, in that you are then thinking of a dynamic relationship between the wing as a large surface area and the body of the insect as an object whose muscles work in a fairly well-defined temperature range (look up Berndt Heinrich for info).
So from an engineering perspective, we are into insolation, radiation, conduction, convection. With the butterfly wing we also have the demands of flight and of colouration. Also the function of the scales (colour or sacrifical surface to stop birds getting them?). I suspect you can pad out both lists and see more clearly where the cross-overs and the unique properties on either side.
That should start you off.
Julian Vincent
On 28 Nov 2010, at 00:21, Milad Arkian wrote:
> Hi,
>
> Im in my 3rd year of Mechanical Engineering and my project is self chosen and titled as Thermoregulation in Butterfly Wings. I have started collecting information from different thesis' but I would like some help on how a Biomimicry report should commence?
>
> How do I link the biology with the engineering or more appropriately how do I start looking for and translating relevant aspects of a butterflies heat regulation process for engineering purposes.
>
> You input would be greatly needed, especially to you Professor Julian Vincent when you told me to study Mechanical Engineering if I was interested in Biomimicry 4 years ago!!
>
> best regards
>
> Milad Arkian
> 3rd Year Mechanical Engineering
> University of Manchester
>
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