Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 19, 2026
12:33
Origami Inspired Self-assembly of Patterned and Reconfigurable Particles
Published on: February 4, 2013
22.3K
Hindwings of insects as concept generator for hingeless foldable shading systems
G Schieber1, L Born, P Bergmann
1Institute of Building Structures and Structural Design (ITKE), University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany.
Bioinspiration & Biomimetics
|November 3, 2017
Summary
Bio-inspired hingeless shading systems utilize insect wing structures for adaptable facade solutions. These compliant mechanisms offer improved load-bearing capacity and reduced maintenance for complex architectural designs.
Area of Science:
- Biomimetics and Architectural Engineering
- Materials Science and Engineering
Background:
- Traditional shading systems often require extensive maintenance and struggle with complex facade geometries.
- Existing bio-inspired compliant mechanisms face challenges with high actuation forces and load-bearing capacity due to homogeneous material properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate natural mechanisms with concentrated compliance and distinct hinge zones for enhanced shading system performance.
- To develop a deployable shading structure inspired by insect hindwings and shield bug wing cuticle.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of insect hindwing (Flexagon model) and shield bug wing cuticle (Graphosoma lineatum) hierarchical structures.
- Development of a multi-layered structure using technical fiber-reinforced plastics and elastomer foil to mimic natural principles.
- Fabrication of initial prototypes using a vacuum-assisted hot press.
Main Results:
- Successful partial transfer of natural principles into a multi-layered structure with locally adapted stiffness.
- Prototypes demonstrate sustained functionality.
- Theoretical studies indicate advantages for doubly curved facade shading.
Conclusions:
- Bio-inspired structures offer a promising approach for deployable external shading systems on doubly curved facades.
- The developed multi-layered approach enhances performance by integrating concentrated compliance and load-bearing capacity.
- Further research can optimize these systems for architectural applications.
Related Concept Videos
01:11Design Example: Forces in Sluice Gate
3.2K
In hydraulic engineering, sluice gates are essential for managing water flow through channels, reservoirs, and irrigation systems. Sluice gates, acting as vertical barriers, regulate water by adjusting the gate's opening height, which changes the velocity and pressure of water flowing beneath the gate. Understanding the forces involved is crucial to designing sluice gates that can withstand dynamic pressure differences, especially when the gate is closed or partially open.
Key variables in...
Key variables in...
3.2K
01:47Osmoregulation in Insects
17.7K
Malpighian tubules are specialized structures found in the digestive systems of many arthropods, including most insects, that handle excretion and osmoregulation. The tubules are typically arranged in pairs and have a convoluted structure that increases their surface area.
17.7K
01:14Moments of Inertia: Problem Solving
1.1K
The second moment of an area, also known as the moment of inertia of an area, is a geometric property of a shape that reflects its resistance to change. The moment of inertia of an area can be calculated for both two-dimensional and three-dimensional shapes. The moment of inertia of an area is calculated by taking the sum of the product of the area and the square of its distance from a chosen axis of rotation. For two-dimensional shapes, the moment of inertia can be expressed as a single...
1.1K
02:19Morphogenesis
30.6K
Plant morphogenesis—the development of a plant’s form and structure—involves several overlapping developmental processes, including growth and cell differentiation. Precursor cells differentiate into specific cell types, which are organized into the tissues and organ systems that make up the functional plant.
30.6K
01:54Convergent Evolution
33.4K
Evolution shapes the features of organisms over time, ensuring that they are suited for the environments in which they live. Sometimes, selection pressure leads to the rise of similar but unrelated adaptations in organisms with no recent common ancestors, a process known as convergent evolution.
33.4K
01:05Mechanism of Ciliary Motion
5.3K
The ciliary structures were first seen in 1647 by Antonie Leeuwenhoek while observing the protozoans. In lower organisms, these appendages are responsible for cell movement, while in higher organisms, these appendages help in the movement of the extracellular fluids within the body cavities.
The cilia are made up of microtubules in a 9+2 arrangement, with nine microtubule doublet ring bundles, surrounding a pair of central singlet microtubule bundles. The doublet microtubule bundles are...
The cilia are made up of microtubules in a 9+2 arrangement, with nine microtubule doublet ring bundles, surrounding a pair of central singlet microtubule bundles. The doublet microtubule bundles are...
5.3K