Tiled material systems: Exploring biodiversity and multifunctionality of a universal and structural motif

Area of Science:

• Biology
• Materials Science
• Bioinspired Design

Background:

• Humans often mimic natural patterns in design and architecture.
• Natural structural systems are multifunctional, driven by evolutionary pressures.
• Understanding biological patterns is key for design, architecture, and engineering applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To classify and catalog biological tilings (tessellated natural architectures).
• To reveal the prevalence and diversity of these natural structural motifs.
• To establish a framework for understanding their form, function, and materiality.

Main Methods:

• Examined 100 diverse examples of biological tilings across the Tree of Life.
• Developed a hierarchical classification system based on eight variables (form, function, materiality).
• Utilized diverse data analysis techniques, including multiple correspondence analysis.

Main Results:

• Biological tilings are unexpectedly prevalent across a vast range of taxa and size scales.
• Identified diverse morphologies and functions, from optics to armor.
• Established fundamental links between anatomical characteristics, functions, and taxonomic groups.

Conclusions:

• Biological tilings represent a significant, yet under-cataloged, natural structural motif.
• The developed classification system facilitates interdisciplinary research and bioinspired innovation.
• The database serves as a resource for exploring evolutionary trade-offs and design principles.