From 2013
The primary purpose of this 1 Hour 20 minute course is to inform engineers and other technical professional in the use of bio-inspired engineering (BiE) to expand the design space of possible solutions to technical problems. We do that by first understanding how nature solves problems. Then, and at least as important, is learning how to translate biological knowledge into engineering practice. Even though the domain of biology is vast and new discoveries occur daily, much is known about biological solutions. Turning this knowledge into technical solutions is the challenge we face – it is also the focus of considerable attention in modern BiE, and hence this course as well.
Learning Objectives
- A general overview of the relationship between living systems and engineering, and how Biosystems can and do influence engineering design, from structural materials to systems engineering to the nature of design itself.
- Applications of bio-systems to optimal design in engineering.
- Structures and materials in nature
- Special emphasis on compliant and smart structures
- The bio-inspired engineering process
Audience
Anyone with a professional interest in Bio-Inspired Engineering or design in general.
Recommended Books
The Biokinetics of Flying and Swimming, Second Edition by Akira Azuma
Testing Large Ultra-Lightweight Spacecraft by Jeremy A. Banik; Christopher H. Jenkins
Instructors
Christopher H. Jenkins, Montana State University. Chris Jenkins is Head of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering at Montana State University. He is a registered professional engineer and an Associate Fellow of AIAA. Dr. Jenkins has authored or co-authored 12 book chapters, over 190 peer-reviewed journal and conference papers, and 2 textbooks, including the companion text Bio-Inspired Engineering. He previously taught the AIAA short course Gossamer Spacecraft.