Biomimetics Research for Medical Engineering: Innovative Devices and ProcessesModeled on Nature’s Evolutionary Solutions

Abstract

Biomimetics and biotechnology are the disciplines that bring biological knowledge into biological transformation. The difference is that biotechnology uses organisms directly for the production, conversion and decomposition of substances, while biomimetics attempts to implement the derived principles in abstract form using technological means. The three levels at which we can take up nature’s ideas for a sustainable economic system are learning (1) from the results of evolution, (2) from the principles of nature, and (3) from the process of evolution itself. The findings thus obtained can be implemented in almost all areas of research and industry. In principle, an increase in material and energy efficiency of up to 30%is possible. The field of medical engineering is particularly predestined for implementation, because the materials of the body, which nature also works with, are being manipulated. There is cooperation between biomimetics and biotechnology when it comes to cell-covered implants (hybrids), in the use of biogenic material and in the functionalization of implants. Great potential for further synergy between bioengineering disciplines for many more applications that fall under biological transformation is anticipated.