5 animal instincts that inspired technology

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Research like this is driving the design of shock absorbers and vibration control devices to protect users of such equipment. The same concept has also inspired innovations such as layered cushioning structures for building design.

3. Building design

Scallops are molluscs with a wavy, fan-shaped outer shell. The zig-zag shape of these undulations strengthens the structure of the shells, enabling them to withstand high pressure underwater.

The same process is used to increase the strength of a cardboard box, with corrugated paper material glued between the two outer cardboard layers. Introducing a corrugated surface greatly increases the strength of a material, in the same way that folding a piece of paper into a zig-zag shape enables it to support an additional load.

The domed structure of a scallop shell also allows it to withstand significant loads. This structure is self-supporting as it distributes the weight evenly over the entire shape of the dome, reducing the load on a single point. This improves the stability of structures without the need to reinforce the steel beams and has inspired the design of many buildings including St Paul’s Cathedral in London.

4. Transport aerodynamics

Sharks have two dorsal fins which provide several aerodynamic advantages. They stabilize the shark from rolling over, while their airfoil shape creates an area of ​​low turbulence behind them and thus increases the efficiency of the shark’s forward movement.

Shark fins have been replicated in motorized transport. For example, racing cars use flaps both to reduce turbulence when traveling at high speed and to improve cornering stability.

Many road cars now have a small shark fin installed on the roof, which is used to supplement their radio antenna. This reduces resistance compared to the traditional pole antenna.

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