ISO 18457, “Biomimetics – Biomimetic materials, structures and components,” has just been released. This new 44-page standard introduces you to the technology known as biomimetics. This is the mimicry of biological materials, structures and components. It is a technological principle that allows for new possibilities in design and manufacturing.
What is an example of a product that uses biomimetics? Velcro is a commonly referenced biomimetic material. It’s little hooks are like those found on burs. Mirasol, a display technology commercialized by Qualcomm is another example. It uses reflective qualities found in the Morpho butterfly wings to provide distinct colors for specific pixels (interferometric modulation). There are many product development projects currently underway making use of biological principles in new ways.
What does ISO 18457 cover? The standard specifies the principles of biological systems that provide the rationale for biomimetic approaches. It specifies a methodology for the analysis of biological systems to foster a biomimetic approach. It offers examples of the transfer process from biology to technology. Use of these examples of biomimetic materials, structures, surfaces, components and manufacturing technologies can provide relevance for industry.
Some areas covered include biological materials themselves, their characteristics and performances. You’ll also get a review of the methodology of biomimetic material and component development. And section 7 is devoted to the reasons and situations where using biomimetic material, structures and components for commercial purposes should be considered. Annex A provides you with examples of biomimetic materials, structures and components. Annex B is on the analytical methods used. A 36-item bibliography completes the document.
The ISO committee TC266 suggests that the standard is not only for those already involved in biomimetics, but also as a guide for learning about and investigating the topic. So if you develop, design, process or use biomimetic materials (or are interested in the same), you’ll want to get a copy. You’ll use an authorized ISO distributor like Document Center Inc. for your purchase. Just go to our webstore at www.document-center.com to place your order. Here’s a direct link to the order page for ISO 18457 for your convenience.
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