Nature has been a source of inspiration for countless inventions, leading to innovative solutions and advancements. Here are 18 genius inventions inspired by the natural world.
Velcro
Velcro was invented by Swiss engineer George de Mestral in 1941 after he noticed how burrs stuck to his dog’s fur. The tiny hooks on the burrs inspired him to create a two-sided fastener, with one side covered in tiny hooks and the other in loops.
Bullet Train Design
The design of Japan’s Shinkansen bullet train was inspired by the kingfisher bird. Engineers observed how the bird’s beak allows it to dive into water with minimal splash and applied this to reduce noise and increase efficiency as the train enters tunnels.
Gecko Tape
Gecko tape mimics the adhesive properties of gecko feet, which allow these lizards to climb smooth surfaces effortlessly. The tape uses microscopic structures that replicate gecko footpads, creating a strong, reusable adhesive.
Lotus Effect Paint
Lotus leaves are known for their self-cleaning properties, where water droplets pick up dirt as they roll off. This inspired the development of Lotus Effect paint, which repels water and dirt, keeping surfaces clean with minimal maintenance.
Porcupin-Like Sutures
Inspired by the way porcupine quills easily penetrate tissue and stay in place, scientists have developed sutures with barbed ends. These Velcro-like sutures hold wounds together more effectively and reduce the need for knots.
Whale Fin Wind Turbines
Wind turbine blades designed after humpback whale fins are more efficient. The bumps, or tubercles, on whale fins reduce drag and increase lift, which engineers applied to wind turbine blades to improve their performance.
Shark Skin Swimsuits
Swimsuits modeled after shark skin reduce drag and increase speed in water. The tiny scales, or denticles, on shark skin create a streamlined surface that inspired the design of high-performance swimsuits for competitive swimmers.
Termite-Inspired Building Design
Termite mounds maintain constant internal temperatures despite external weather changes. This inspired architects to design buildings with natural ventilation systems that reduce the need for air conditioning, such as the Eastgate Centre in Zimbabwe.
Biomimetic Robots
Robots designed to mimic animal movements are used for various applications. For example, Boston Dynamics’ robot, Spot, mimics the movement of a dog, allowing it to navigate complex terrains and assist in search and rescue missions.
Butterfly-Inspired Displays
The iridescent colors of butterfly wings are due to microscopic structures that reflect light. This inspired the development of low-energy, high-visibility displays, such as those used in some e-readers and screens.
Spider Silk
Spider silk is incredibly strong and flexible. Researchers are developing synthetic spider silk for use in medical sutures, bulletproof clothing, and biodegradable fishing lines, leveraging its unique properties for diverse applications.
Bioluminescent Lighting
Bioluminescent organisms, like fireflies and certain jellyfish, inspired the development of bioluminescent lighting. Scientists are working on creating sustainable, low-energy light sources using similar biochemical processes.
Plant-Inspired Water Collection
The Namib Desert beetle collects water from fog using its bumpy shell. This inspired the design of water collection systems in arid regions, mimicking the beetle’s shell to capture moisture from the air.
Bird Skull Helmets
The lightweight yet strong structure of bird skulls inspired the design of more effective and comfortable helmets. These helmets provide better protection while reducing weight, enhancing user comfort and safety.
Self-Healing Materials
Plants and animals that can heal themselves, like certain species of lizards and plants, inspired the development of self-healing materials. These materials can repair themselves after damage, increasing their durability and lifespan.
Fish Scale Armor
The overlapping structure of fish scales provides flexibility and protection. This inspired the design of modern body armor, combining lightweight materials with enhanced protective capabilities for better mobility and safety.
Bionic Prosthetics
The movement of human muscles and tendons inspired bionic prosthetics that mimic natural limb movements. These advanced prosthetics offer improved functionality and control, enhancing the quality of life for amputees.
Mushroom Packaging
Mushroom mycelium, the root structure of fungi, inspired the development of eco-friendly packaging materials. These biodegradable materials can replace traditional plastics, reducing environmental impact and waste.
Ellen has been obsessed with logic puzzles, jigsaws, and cryptograms since she was a kid. After learning she was taught how to play chess wrong by a family friend (so they could win), she joined her school chess club and the rest is history.
