Quoting Norbert Hoeller <[log in to unmask]>:
> It is not just about
> efficiency, but a different solution pathway.
Wonderful! One of the results of our RS paper is that we have the
techniques to manipulate (=engineer) our environment, but we are using
them in the wrong (=not the best) order. This is where the 12%
similarity between biological and technical solutions comes in.
Indeed, nature has the same general tools and manipulations for solving
the same problems, but uses them in a different way. That is one of
the basic messages of biomimetics and, I think, is more important than
the biomimetic tricks which we find and turn into Velcro and Lotusan.
Because we use these two in the same way that we'd use the engineering
solutions. Norbert's remarks below resonate with this . . .
> Thirdly, the biomimicry community talks a lot about 'quieting human
> cleverness' and treating nature as a respected mentor. I am slowly
> coming to the conclusion that many of our technological designs are good
> solutions to the wrong problems. TRIZ is very strong on continuously
> revisiting the problem to get at the root cause. I believe studying how
> natural systems work can provide a set of guidelines that not only helps
> us gauge whether we are getting closer to the core problem, but also
> provide specific signposts to guide our path. I have read a number of
> articles recently about how 'peak oil' is not an issue (we can suck harder
> on the straw, or manufacture oil from other sources such as coal or tar
> sands), or how hydrogen (from natural gas, combined with CO2
> sequestration) is the answer. Instead of slapping on another coat of
> technology paint, I think the right question is how natural systems do
> more with vastly less energy (with onsite production and built-in storage
> thrown in for good measure).
>
> Norbert Hoeller
--
Julian FV Vincent [log in to unmask]
Professor of Biomimetics office 01225 386596
Centre for Biomimetic & Natural Technologies mobile 07941 933901
Dept of Mechanical Engineering fax 01225 386928
The University
BATH BA2 7AY
http://www.bath.ac.uk/Departments/Eng/biomimetics/
I hate quotations. Tell me what you know. (Ralph Waldo Emerson)
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