Physics concept that originated from an animal source?

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the application of biological principles in physics and engineering, highlighting examples such as echolocation in bats and dolphins, which inspired sonar technology. It clarifies that bats utilize echolocation, not radar, and emphasizes that sonar was developed independently of biological inspiration. Additionally, the conversation introduces concepts from machine learning, such as genetic algorithms and particle swarm optimization, and discusses bio-mimicry examples like gecko feet influencing strong adhesives and carnivorous pitcher plants inspiring slippery coatings.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of echolocation and its biological mechanisms
  • Familiarity with sonar technology and its applications
  • Knowledge of bio-mimicry and its role in engineering
  • Basic concepts of machine learning, including genetic algorithms
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of echolocation in bats and toothed whales
  • Explore the development and applications of sonar technology
  • Investigate bio-mimicry innovations inspired by gecko feet and pitcher plants
  • Learn about machine learning techniques such as particle swarm optimization
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, biologists, and innovators interested in the intersection of biology and technology, particularly in fields like bio-mimicry and machine learning applications.

GetNVan4Candy
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I need help finding some animals whose application of physics in the nature have inspired people to use the same physics in inventions/different applications.

Some animals I've thought of are:
  • Bats (Radar)
  • Dolphins (Sonar)
  • Birds (Airplanes)

These animals would be perfect, except there aren't many social and environmental aspects I can talk about.

I just need some random animals to help me brainstorm.
If anything jumps into your mind, please post it.
 
Last edited:
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Bats don't use radar (radio wave reflections to determine position or speed). The use a form of sonar, or high frequency sound wave reflections in a process called echo location.
 
GetNVan4Candy said:
  • Bats (Radar)
  • Dolphins (Sonar)
These are dubious examples at best. First off, bats, like toothed whales, use sound for echolocation. Radar is very different beast. Secondly, neither radar nor sonar were biologically inspired. That echolocation in bats and toothed whales is similar to how sonar (not radar) works was discovered after sonar was developed.

The field of machine learning (a branch of artificial intelligence) does have several biologically-motivated concepts. Genetic algorithms, ant colony optimization, and particle swarm optimization, for example.
 
I saw a program once where engineers had created a robotic arm based on the way an elephant’s trunk worked.
 

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