BIO-INSPIRED PRODUCT DESIGN BRIEF MODULE
Year: 2021
Editor: Grierson, Hilary; Bohemia, Erik; Buck, Lyndon
Author: Weiss, Alon
Series: E&PDE
Institution: SCE College of Engineering, Israel.
Section: Innovation and Creativity in Design and Engineering Education
DOI number: 10.35199/EPDE.2021.2
ISBN: 978-1-912254-14-9
Abstract
The principal objective of this paper is to demonstrate the capability of biomimetic inspiration as a useful thinking module in product design education. This bottom-up approach of Paradigm Module is based on the mechanical principle of Salsola Tragus, an annual weed that begins life as a typical multiple branched bush but takes on a spherical form when blown by the wind, spreading thousands of seeds. The research aim was to bridge between the abstraction stage and transfer of knowledge while relating to a broad scope of design concerns, utilizing a two-step module that links the stages. By applying the module, the organisms and the design are summarized via checklist guide questions, resulting in a flowchart which constructs the idea. While empathic thinking has detected the wow effect in children's games, analogue thinking exposed the essence of the application of a ball. This combination of thinking methods contributes greatly to the ideation process. Although the WHAT was initially known as a ball attribute, the wide biological investigation via the module operation led to a creative mindset of the HOW, therefore, the module principle can be used to formulate a blueprint brief.
Keywords: biomimetic design education, formulating, scoping, ideation