Journal Description
Biomimetics
Biomimetics
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on biomimicry and bionics, published monthly online by MDPI. The International Society of Bionic Engineering (ISBE) is affiliated with Biomimetics.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Engineering, Multidisciplinary) / CiteScore - Q2 (Biomedical Engineering)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 17.2 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
4.5 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
4.1 (2022)
Latest Articles
Experimental Study on Aerodynamic Characteristics of Downwind Bionic Tower Wind Turbine
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 336; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060336 (registering DOI) - 2 Jun 2024
Abstract
The vibrissae of harbor seals exhibit a distinct three-dimensional structure compared to circular cylinders, resulting in a wave-shaped configuration that effectively reduces drag and suppresses vortex shedding in the wake. However, this unique cylinder design has not yet been applied to wind power
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The vibrissae of harbor seals exhibit a distinct three-dimensional structure compared to circular cylinders, resulting in a wave-shaped configuration that effectively reduces drag and suppresses vortex shedding in the wake. However, this unique cylinder design has not yet been applied to wind power technologies. Therefore, this study applies this concept to the design of downwind wind turbines and employs wind tunnel testing to compare the wake flow characteristics of a single-cylinder model while also investigating the output power and wake performance of the model wind turbine. Herein, we demonstrate that in the single-cylinder test, the bionic case shows reduced turbulence intensity in its wake compared to that observed with the circular cylinder case. The difference in the energy distribution in the frequency domain behind the cylinder was mainly manifested in the near-wake region. Moreover, our findings indicate that differences in power coefficient are predominantly noticeable with high tip speed ratios. Furthermore, as output power increases, this bionic cylindrical structure induces greater velocity deficit and higher turbulence intensity behind the rotor. These results provide valuable insights for optimizing aerodynamic designs of wind turbines towards achieving enhanced efficiency for converting wind energy.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bio-Inspired Flapping Wing Aerodynamics for Propulsion and Power Generation)
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Neuron Circuit Based on a Split-gate Transistor with Nonvolatile Memory for Homeostatic Functions of Biological Neurons
by
Hansol Kim, Sung Yun Woo and Hyungjin Kim
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 335; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060335 - 31 May 2024
Abstract
To mimic the homeostatic functionality of biological neurons, a split-gate field-effect transistor (S-G FET) with a charge trap layer is proposed within a neuron circuit. By adjusting the number of charges trapped in the Si3N4 layer, the threshold voltage (V
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To mimic the homeostatic functionality of biological neurons, a split-gate field-effect transistor (S-G FET) with a charge trap layer is proposed within a neuron circuit. By adjusting the number of charges trapped in the Si3N4 layer, the threshold voltage (Vth) of the S-G FET changes. To prevent degradation of the gate dielectric due to program/erase pulses, the gates for read operation and Vth control were separated through the fin structure. A circuit that modulates the width and amplitude of the pulse was constructed to generate a Program/Erase pulse for the S-G FET as the output pulse of the neuron circuit. By adjusting the Vth of the neuron circuit, the firing rate can be lowered by increasing the Vth of the neuron circuit with a high firing rate. To verify the performance of the neural network based on S-G FET, a simulation of online unsupervised learning and classification in a 2-layer SNN is performed. The results show that the recognition rate was improved by 8% by increasing the threshold of the neuron circuit fired.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Bio-Inspired Neural Networks)
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An Enhanced Tree-Seed Algorithm for Function Optimization and Production Optimization
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Qingan Zhou, Rong Dai, Guoxiao Zhou, Shenghui Ma and Shunshe Luo
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 334; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060334 - 31 May 2024
Abstract
As the fields of engineering, energy, and geology become increasingly complex, decision makers face escalating challenges that require skilled solutions to meet practical production needs. Evolutionary algorithms, inspired by biological evolution, have emerged as powerful methods for tackling intricate optimization problems without relying
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As the fields of engineering, energy, and geology become increasingly complex, decision makers face escalating challenges that require skilled solutions to meet practical production needs. Evolutionary algorithms, inspired by biological evolution, have emerged as powerful methods for tackling intricate optimization problems without relying on gradient data. Among these, the tree-seed algorithm (TSA) distinguishes itself due to its unique mechanism and efficient searching capabilities. However, an imbalance between its exploitation and exploration phases can lead it to be stuck in local optima, impeding the discovery of globally optimal solutions. This study introduces an improved TSA that incorporates water-cycling and quantum rotation-gate mechanisms. These enhancements assist the algorithm in escaping local peaks and achieving a more harmonious balance between its exploitation and exploration phases. Comparative experimental evaluations, using the CEC 2017 benchmarks and a well-known metaheuristic algorithm, demonstrate the upgraded algorithm’s faster convergence rate and enhanced ability to locate global optima. Additionally, its application in optimizing reservoir production models underscores its superior performance compared to competing methods, further validating its real-world optimization capabilities.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computer-Aided Biomimetics: 2nd Edition)
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Mycelium-Based Composites: Surveying Their Acceptance by Professional Architects
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Anna Lewandowska, Agata Bonenberg and Maciej Sydor
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 333; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060333 - 30 May 2024
Abstract
Mycelium-based composites (MBCs) are biomaterials with scientifically proven potential to improve sustainability in construction. Although mycelium-based products are not entirely new, their use in engineering presents challenges due to the inherent properties of this fungal material. This study investigated professional architects’ and interior
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Mycelium-based composites (MBCs) are biomaterials with scientifically proven potential to improve sustainability in construction. Although mycelium-based products are not entirely new, their use in engineering presents challenges due to the inherent properties of this fungal material. This study investigated professional architects’ and interior designers’ perceptions of MBCs, focusing on familiarity, aesthetic appeal, and willingness to use. The first phase of the survey explored respondents’ views on material-related ecological design principles. In the second phase, respondents evaluated ten small architectural objects crafted from MBCs, focusing on form, detail, and visual appeal. The last phase of the survey measured their interest in using mycelium in their design work. The results revealed that MBCs were relatively unknown among the surveyed professionals; only every second respondent knew this material. Despite this, 90% found MBCs visually appealing after seeing the examples. Interestingly, the natural, unprocessed appearance of the material was assessed as less aesthetically pleasing, with thermal treatment improving its perceived value. Architects were more receptive to using MBCs in their professional projects for customers than for personal use. This observation points to a ‘double standard’: professional architects are more open to using MBCs in projects not intended for their own use.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological and Bioinspired Materials and Structures)
Open AccessArticle
Coordinated Transport by Dual Humanoid Robots Using Distributed Model Predictive Control
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Shengjun Wen, Zhaoyuan Shi and Hongjun Li
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 332; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060332 - 30 May 2024
Abstract
Dual humanoid robot collaborative control systems possess better flexibility and adaptability in complex environments due to their similar structures to humans. This paper adopts a distributed model predictive controller based on the leader–follower approach to address the collaborative transportation control issue of dual
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Dual humanoid robot collaborative control systems possess better flexibility and adaptability in complex environments due to their similar structures to humans. This paper adopts a distributed model predictive controller based on the leader–follower approach to address the collaborative transportation control issue of dual humanoid robots. In the dual-robot collaborative control system, network latency issues may arise due to unstable network conditions, affecting the consistency of dual-robot collaboration. To solve this issue, a communication protocol was constructed through socket communication for dual-robot collaborative consistency, thereby resolving the problem of consistency in dual humanoid robot collaboration. Additionally, due to the complex structure of humanoid robots, there are deficiencies in position tracking accuracy during movement. To address the poor accuracy in position tracking, this paper proposes a distributed model predictive control that considers historical cumulative error, thus enhancing the position tracking accuracy of dual-robot collaborative control.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bio-Inspired Approaches—a Leverage for Robotics)
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Open AccessArticle
A Grey Wolf Optimizer Algorithm for Multi-Objective Cumulative Capacitated Vehicle Routing Problem Considering Operation Time
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Gewen Huang, Yuanhang Qi, Yanguang Cai, Yuhui Luo and Helie Huang
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 331; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060331 - 30 May 2024
Abstract
In humanitarian aid scenarios, the model of cumulative capacitated vehicle routing problem can be used in vehicle scheduling, aiming at delivering materials to recipients as quickly as possible, thus minimizing their wait time. Traditional approaches focus on this metric, but practical implementations must
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In humanitarian aid scenarios, the model of cumulative capacitated vehicle routing problem can be used in vehicle scheduling, aiming at delivering materials to recipients as quickly as possible, thus minimizing their wait time. Traditional approaches focus on this metric, but practical implementations must also consider factors such as driver labor intensity and the capacity for on-site decision-making. To evaluate driver workload, the operation times of relief vehicles are typically used, and multi-objective modeling is employed to facilitate on-site decision-making. This paper introduces a multi-objective cumulative capacitated vehicle routing problem considering operation time (MO-CCVRP-OT). Our model is bi-objective, aiming to minimize both the cumulative wait time of disaster-affected areas and the extra expenditures incurred by the excess operation time of rescue vehicles. Based on the traditional grey wolf optimizer algorithm, this paper proposes a dynamic grey wolf optimizer algorithm with floating 2-opt (DGWO-F2OPT), which combines real number encoding with an equal-division random key and ROV rules for decoding; in addition, a dynamic non-dominated solution set update strategy is introduced. To solve MO-CCVRP-OT efficiently and increase the algorithm’s convergence speed, a multi-objective improved floating 2-opt (F2OPT) local search strategy is proposed. The utopia optimum solution of DGWO-F2OPT has an average value of two fitness values that is 6.22% lower than that of DGWO-2OPT. DGWO-F2OPT’s average fitness value in the algorithm comparison trials is 16.49% less than that of NS-2OPT. In the model comparison studies, MO-CCVRP-OT is 18.72% closer to the utopian point in Euclidean distance than CVRP-OT.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nature-Inspired Metaheuristic Optimization Algorithms 2024)
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Open AccessArticle
Evolutionary Approach to Optimal Oil Skimmer Assignment for Oil Spill Response: A Case Study
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Yong-Hyuk Kim, Hye-Jin Kim, Dong-Hee Cho and Yourim Yoon
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 330; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060330 - 30 May 2024
Abstract
We propose a genetic algorithm for optimizing oil skimmer assignments, introducing a tailored repair operation for constrained assignments. Methods essentially involve simulation-based evaluation to ensure adherence to South Korea’s regulations. Results show that the optimized assignments, compared to current ones, reduced work time
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We propose a genetic algorithm for optimizing oil skimmer assignments, introducing a tailored repair operation for constrained assignments. Methods essentially involve simulation-based evaluation to ensure adherence to South Korea’s regulations. Results show that the optimized assignments, compared to current ones, reduced work time on average and led to a significant reduction in total skimmer capacity. Additionally, we present a deep neural network-based surrogate model, greatly enhancing efficiency compared to simulation-based optimization. Addressing inefficiencies in mobilizing locations that store oil skimmers, further optimization aimed to minimize mobilized locations and was validated through scenario-based simulations resembling actual situations. Based on major oil spills in South Korea, this strategy significantly reduced work time and required locations. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed genetic algorithm and mobilized location minimization strategy in enhancing oil spill response operations.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nature-Inspired Metaheuristic Optimization Algorithms 2024)
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Bioinspired Control Architecture for Adaptive and Resilient Navigation of Unmanned Underwater Vehicle in Monitoring Missions of Submerged Aquatic Vegetation Meadows
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Francisco García-Córdova, Antonio Guerrero-González and Fernando Hidalgo-Castelo
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 329; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060329 - 30 May 2024
Abstract
Submerged aquatic vegetation plays a fundamental role as a habitat for the biodiversity of marine species. To carry out the research and monitoring of submerged aquatic vegetation more efficiently and accurately, it is important to use advanced technologies such as underwater robots. However,
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Submerged aquatic vegetation plays a fundamental role as a habitat for the biodiversity of marine species. To carry out the research and monitoring of submerged aquatic vegetation more efficiently and accurately, it is important to use advanced technologies such as underwater robots. However, when conducting underwater missions to capture photographs and videos near submerged aquatic vegetation meadows, algae can become entangled in the propellers and cause vehicle failure. In this context, a neurobiologically inspired control architecture is proposed for the control of unmanned underwater vehicles with redundant thrusters. The proposed control architecture learns to control the underwater robot in a non-stationary environment and combines the associative learning method and vector associative map learning to generate transformations between the spatial and velocity coordinates in the robot actuator. The experimental results obtained show that the proposed control architecture exhibits notable resilience capabilities while maintaining its operation in the face of thruster failures. In the discussion of the results obtained, the importance of the proposed control architecture is highlighted in the context of the monitoring and conservation of underwater vegetation meadows. Its resilience, robustness, and adaptability capabilities make it an effective tool to face challenges and meet mission objectives in such critical environments.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bio-Inspired Underwater Robots: 2nd Edition)
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Autocatalysis, Autopoiesis, and the Opportunity Cost of Individuality
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Nemanja Kliska and Chrystopher L. Nehaniv
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 328; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060328 - 30 May 2024
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Ever since Varela and Maturana proposed the concept of autopoiesis as the minimal requirement for life, there has been a focus on cellular systems that erect topological boundaries to separate themselves from their surrounding environment. Here, we reconsider whether the existence of such
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Ever since Varela and Maturana proposed the concept of autopoiesis as the minimal requirement for life, there has been a focus on cellular systems that erect topological boundaries to separate themselves from their surrounding environment. Here, we reconsider whether the existence of such a spatial boundary is strictly necessary for self-producing entities. This work presents a novel computational model of a minimal autopoietic system inspired by dendrites and molecular dynamic simulations in three-dimensional space. A series of simulation experiments where the metabolic pathways of a particular autocatalytic set are successively inhibited until autocatalytic entities that could be considered autopoietic are produced. These entities maintain their distinctness in an environment containing multiple identical instances of the entities without the existence of a topological boundary. This gives rise to the concept of a metabolic boundary which manifests as emergent self-selection criteria for the processes of self-production without any need for unique identifiers. However, the adoption of such a boundary comes at a cost, as these autopoietic entities are less suited to their simulated environment than their autocatalytic counterparts. Finally, this work showcases a generalized metabolism-centered approach to the study of autopoiesis that can be applied to both physical and abstract systems alike.
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Open AccessReview
A Contemporary Review of Trachea, Nose, and Ear Cartilage Bioengineering and Additive Manufacturing
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Max Feng, Khwaja Hamzah Ahmed, Nihal Punjabi and Jared C. Inman
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 327; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060327 - 29 May 2024
Abstract
The complex structure, chemical composition, and biomechanical properties of craniofacial cartilaginous structures make them challenging to reconstruct. Autologous grafts have limited tissue availability and can cause significant donor-site morbidity, homologous grafts often require immunosuppression, and alloplastic grafts may have high rates of infection
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The complex structure, chemical composition, and biomechanical properties of craniofacial cartilaginous structures make them challenging to reconstruct. Autologous grafts have limited tissue availability and can cause significant donor-site morbidity, homologous grafts often require immunosuppression, and alloplastic grafts may have high rates of infection or displacement. Furthermore, all these grafting techniques require a high level of surgical skill to ensure that the reconstruction matches the original structure. Current research indicates that additive manufacturing shows promise in overcoming these limitations. Autologous stem cells have been developed into cartilage when exposed to the appropriate growth factors and culture conditions, such as mechanical stress and oxygen deprivation. Additive manufacturing allows for increased precision when engineering scaffolds for stem cell cultures. Fine control over the porosity and structure of a material ensures adequate cell adhesion and fit between the graft and the defect. Several recent tissue engineering studies have focused on the trachea, nose, and ear, as these structures are often damaged by congenital conditions, trauma, and malignancy. This article reviews the limitations of current reconstructive techniques and the new developments in additive manufacturing for tracheal, nasal, and auricular cartilages.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Additive Manufacturing of Biomaterials for Craniofacial Tissue Engineering and Implantology)
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Neuromorphic Sensor Based on Force-Sensing Resistors
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Alexandru Barleanu and Mircea Hulea
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 326; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060326 - 29 May 2024
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This work introduces a neuromorphic sensor (NS) based on force-sensing resistors (FSR) and spiking neurons for robotic systems. The proposed sensor integrates the FSR in the schematic of the spiking neuron in order to make the sensor generate spikes with a frequency that
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This work introduces a neuromorphic sensor (NS) based on force-sensing resistors (FSR) and spiking neurons for robotic systems. The proposed sensor integrates the FSR in the schematic of the spiking neuron in order to make the sensor generate spikes with a frequency that depends on the applied force. The performance of the proposed sensor is evaluated in the control of a SMA-actuated robotic finger by monitoring the force during a steady state when the finger pushes on a tweezer. For comparison purposes, we performed a similar evaluation when the SNN received input from a widely used compression load cell (CLC). The results show that the proposed FSR-based neuromorphic sensor has very good sensitivity to low forces and the function between the spiking rate and the applied force is continuous, with good variation range. However, when compared to the CLC, the response of the NS follows a logarithmic-like function with improved sensitivity for small forces. In addition, the power consumption of NS is 128 µW that is 270 times lower than that of the CLC which needs 3.5 mW to operate. These characteristics make the neuromorphic sensor with FSR suitable for bioinspired control of humanoid robotics, representing a low-power and low-cost alternative to the widely used sensors.
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Open AccessArticle
The Effect of Iron Oxide Insertion on the In Vitro Bioactivity, and Antibacterial Properties of the 45S5 Bioactive Glass
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Imen Hammami, Suresh Kumar Jakka, Isabel Sá-Nogueira, João Paulo Borges and Manuel Pedro Fernandes Graça
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 325; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060325 - 29 May 2024
Abstract
The aging population and increasing incidence of trauma among younger age groups have heightened the increasing demand for reliable implant materials. Effective implant materials must demonstrate rapid osseointegration and strong antibacterial properties to ensure optimal patient outcomes and decrease the chance of implant
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The aging population and increasing incidence of trauma among younger age groups have heightened the increasing demand for reliable implant materials. Effective implant materials must demonstrate rapid osseointegration and strong antibacterial properties to ensure optimal patient outcomes and decrease the chance of implant rejection. This study aims to enhance the bone–implant interface by utilizing 45S5 bioglass modified with various concentrations of Fe3O4 as a coating material. The effect of the insertion of Fe3O4 into the bioglass structure was studied using Raman spectroscopy which shows that with the increase in Fe3O4 concentration, new vibration bands associated with Fe-related structural units appeared within the sample. The bioactivity of the prepared glasses was evaluated using immersion tests in simulated body fluid, revealing the formation of a calcium phosphate-rich layer within 24 h on the samples, indicating their potential for enhanced tissue integration. However, the sample modified with 8 mol% of Fe3O4 showed low reactivity, developing a calcium phosphate-rich layer within 96 h. All the bioglasses showed antibacterial activity against the Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The modified bioglass did not present significant antibacterial properties compared to the bioglass base.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Bioceramics for Bone Regeneration)
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Effect of Frequency–Amplitude Parameter and Aspect Ratio on Propulsion Performance of Underwater Flapping-Foil
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Hao Ding, Ruoqian Chen, Yawei Zhu, Huipeng Shen and Qiang Gao
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 324; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060324 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
The propulsion system is the core component of unmanned underwater vehicles. The flapping propulsion method of marine animals’ flippers, which allows for flexibility, low noise, and high energy utilization at low speeds, can provide a new perspective for the development of new propulsion
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The propulsion system is the core component of unmanned underwater vehicles. The flapping propulsion method of marine animals’ flippers, which allows for flexibility, low noise, and high energy utilization at low speeds, can provide a new perspective for the development of new propulsion technology. In this study, a new experimental flapping propulsion apparatus that can be installed in both directions has been constructed. The guide rail slider mechanism can achieve the retention of force in the direction of movement, thereby decoupling thrust, lift, and torque. Subsequently, the motion parameters of frequency–amplitude related to the thrust and lift of a bionic flapping-foil are scrutinized. A response surface connecting propulsion efficiency and these motion parameters is formulated. The highest efficiency of the flapping-foil propulsion is achieved at a frequency of 2 Hz and an amplitude of 40°. Furthermore, the impact of the installation mode and the aspect ratio of the flapping-foil is examined. The reverse installation of the swing yields a higher thrust than the forward swing. As the chord length remains constant and the span length increases, the propulsive efficiency gradually improves. When the chord length is extended to a certain degree, the propulsion efficiency exhibits a parabolic pattern, increasing initially and then diminishing. This investigation offers a novel perspective for the bionic design within the domain of underwater propulsion. This research provides valuable theoretical guidance for bionic design in the underwater propulsion field.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bio-Inspired Flapping Wing Aerodynamics for Propulsion and Power Generation)
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Discrete-Time Impedance Control for Dynamic Response Regulation of Parallel Soft Robots
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Ameer Hamza Khan and Shuai Li
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 323; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060323 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
Accurately controlling the dynamic response and suppression of undesirable dynamics such as overshoots and vibrations is a vital requirement for soft robots operating in industrial environments. Pneumatically actuated soft robots usually undergo large overshoots and significant vibrations when deactuated because of their highly
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Accurately controlling the dynamic response and suppression of undesirable dynamics such as overshoots and vibrations is a vital requirement for soft robots operating in industrial environments. Pneumatically actuated soft robots usually undergo large overshoots and significant vibrations when deactuated because of their highly flexible bodies. These large vibrations not only decrease the reliability and accuracy of the soft robot but also introduce undesirable characteristics in the system. For example, it increases the settling time and damages the body of the soft robot, compromising its structural integrity. The dynamic behavior of the soft robots on deactuation needs to be accurately controlled to increase their utility in real-world applications. The literature on pneumatic soft robots still does not sufficiently address the issue of suppressing undesirable vibrations. To address this issue, we propose the use of impedance control to regulate the dynamic response of pneumatic soft robots since the superiority of impedance control is already established for rigid robots. The soft robots are highly nonlinear systems; therefore, we formulated a nonlinear discrete sliding mode impedance controller to control the pneumatic soft robots. The formulation of the controller in discrete-time allows efficient implementation for a high-order system model without the need for state-observers. The simplification and efficiency of the proposed controller enable fast implementation of an embedded system. Unlike other works on pneumatic soft robots, the proposed controller does not require manual tuning of the controller parameters and automatically calculates the parameters based on the impedance value. To demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed controller, we used a 6-chambered parallel soft robot as an experimental platform. We presented the comparative results with an existing state-of-the-art controller in SMC control of pneumatic soft robots. The experiment results indicate that the proposed controller can effectively limit the amplitude of the undesirable vibrations.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bio-Inspired Approaches—a Leverage for Robotics)
Open AccessCommunication
Managing Complexity in Socio-Technical Systems by Mimicking Emergent Simplicities in Nature: A Brief Communication
by
Andrea Falegnami, Andrea Tomassi, Giuseppe Corbelli and Elpidio Romano
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 322; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060322 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
In the context of socio-technical systems, traditional engineering approaches are inadequate, calling for a fundamental change in perspective. A different approach encourages viewing socio-technical systems as complex living entities rather than through a simplistic lens, which enhances our understanding of their dynamics. However,
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In the context of socio-technical systems, traditional engineering approaches are inadequate, calling for a fundamental change in perspective. A different approach encourages viewing socio-technical systems as complex living entities rather than through a simplistic lens, which enhances our understanding of their dynamics. However, these systems are designed to facilitate human activities, and the goal is not only to comprehend how they operate but also to guide their function. Currently, we lack the appropriate terminology. Hence, we introduce two principal concepts, simplexity and complixity, drawing inspiration from how nature conceals intricate mechanisms beneath straightforward, user-friendly interfaces.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Systems Approach to BioInspired Design)
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SonoNERFs: Neural Radiance Fields Applied to Biological Echolocation Systems Allow 3D Scene Reconstruction through Perceptual Prediction
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Wouter Jansen and Jan Steckel
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 321; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060321 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
In this paper, we introduce SonoNERFs, a novel approach that adapts Neural Radiance Fields (NeRFs) to model and understand the echolocation process in bats, focusing on the challenges posed by acoustic data interpretation without phase information. Leveraging insights from the field of optical
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In this paper, we introduce SonoNERFs, a novel approach that adapts Neural Radiance Fields (NeRFs) to model and understand the echolocation process in bats, focusing on the challenges posed by acoustic data interpretation without phase information. Leveraging insights from the field of optical NeRFs, our model, termed SonoNERF, represents the acoustic environment through Neural Reflectivity Fields. This model allows us to reconstruct three-dimensional scenes from echolocation data, obtained by simulating how bats perceive their surroundings through sound. By integrating concepts from biological echolocation and modern computational models, we demonstrate the SonoNERF’s ability to predict echo spectrograms for unseen echolocation poses and effectively reconstruct a mesh-based and energy-based representation of complex scenes. Our work bridges a gap in understanding biological echolocation and proposes a methodological framework that provides a first-order model of how scene understanding might arise in echolocating animals. We demonstrate the efficacy of the SonoNERF model on three scenes of increasing complexity, including some biologically relevant prey–predator interactions.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Bioinspired Sensorics, Information Processing and Control)
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Open AccessArticle
Aminolysis-Based Zwitterionic Immobilization on Polyethersulfone Membranes for Enhanced Hemocompatibility: Experimental, Computational, and Ex Vivo Investigations
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Arash Mollahosseini, Jumanah Bahig, Ahmed Shoker and Amira Abdelrasoul
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 320; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060320 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Dialysis membranes are not hemocompatible with human blood, as the patients are suffering from the blood–membrane interactions’ side effects. Zwitterionic structures have shown improved hemocompatibility; however, their complicated synthesis hinders their commercialization. The goal of the study is to achieve fast functionalization for
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Dialysis membranes are not hemocompatible with human blood, as the patients are suffering from the blood–membrane interactions’ side effects. Zwitterionic structures have shown improved hemocompatibility; however, their complicated synthesis hinders their commercialization. The goal of the study is to achieve fast functionalization for carboxybetaine and sulfobetaine zwitterionic immobilization on PES membranes while comparing the stability and the targeted hemocompatibility. The chemical modification approach is based on an aminolysis reaction. Characterization, computational simulations, and clinical analysis were conducted to study the modified membranes. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) patterns showed a lower mean roughness for carboxybetaine-modified (6.3 nm) and sulfobetaine-modified (7.7 nm) membranes compared to the neat membrane (52.61 nm). The pore size of the membranes was reduced from values above 50 nm for the neat PES to values between 2 and 50 nm for zwitterionized membranes, using Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis. More hydrophilic surfaces led to a growth equilibrium water content (EWC) of nearly 6% for carboxybetaine and 10% for sulfobetaine-modified membranes. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements were 12% and 16% stable water for carboxybetaine- and sulfobetaine-modified membranes, respectively. Sulfobetaine membranes showed better compatibility with blood with respect to C5a, IL-1a, and IL-6 biomarkers. Aminolysis-based zwitterionization was found to be suitable for the improvement of hemodialysis membranes. The approach introduced in this paper could be used to modify the current dialysis membranes with minimal change in the production facilities.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Blood-Compatible Materials: Preparation, Modification and Functionalization: 2nd Edition)
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Open AccessReview
A Review and Evaluation of Control Architectures for Modular Legged and Climbing Robots
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Carlos Prados, Miguel Hernando, Ernesto Gambao and Alberto Brunete
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 319; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060319 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Robotic control is a fundamental part of autonomous robots. Modular legged and climbing robots are complex machines made up of a variety of subsystems, ranging from a single robot with simple legs to a complex system composed of multiple legs (or modules) with
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Robotic control is a fundamental part of autonomous robots. Modular legged and climbing robots are complex machines made up of a variety of subsystems, ranging from a single robot with simple legs to a complex system composed of multiple legs (or modules) with computing power and sensitivity. Their complexity, which is increased by the fact of needing elements for climbing, makes a correct structure crucial to achieve a complete, robust, and versatile system during its operation. Control architectures for legged robots are distinguished from other software architectures because of the special needs of these systems. In this paper, we present an original classification of modular legged and climbing robots, a comprehensive review of the most important control architectures in robotics, focusing on the control of modular legged and climbing robots, and a comparison of their features. The control architecture comparison aims to provide the analytical tools necessary to make informed decisions tailored to the specific needs of your robotic applications. This article includes a review and classification of modular legged and climbing robots, breaking down each category separately.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biorobotics: 2nd Edition)
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Open AccessArticle
Acinonyx jubatus-Inspired Quadruped Robotics: Integrating Neural Oscillators for Enhanced Locomotion Control
by
Eric Alberto Hernández-Flores, Yazmín Mariela Hernández-Rodríguez, Rosario Munguía-Fuentes, Rafael Bayareh-Mancilla and Oscar Eduardo Cigarroa-Mayorga
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 318; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060318 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
This study presents the design, simulation, and prototype creation of a quadruped robot inspired by the Acinonyx jubatus (cheetah), specifically designed to replicate its distinctive walking, trotting, and galloping locomotion patterns. Following a detailed examination of the cheetah’s skeletal muscle anatomy and biomechanics,
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This study presents the design, simulation, and prototype creation of a quadruped robot inspired by the Acinonyx jubatus (cheetah), specifically designed to replicate its distinctive walking, trotting, and galloping locomotion patterns. Following a detailed examination of the cheetah’s skeletal muscle anatomy and biomechanics, a simplified model of the robot with 12 degrees of freedom was conducted. The mathematical transformation hierarchy model was established, and direct kinematics were simulated. A bio-inspired control approach was introduced, employing a Central Pattern Generator model based on Wilson–Cowan neural oscillators for each limb, interconnected by synaptic weights. This approach assisted in the simulation of oscillatory signals for relative phases corresponding to four distinct gaits in a system-level simulation platform. The design phase was conducted using CAD software (SolidWorks 2018), resulting in a 1:3-scale robot mirroring the cheetah’s actual proportions. Movement simulations were performed in a virtual mechanics software environment, leading to the construction of a prototype measuring 35.5 cm in length, 21 cm in width, 27 cm in height (when standing), and weighing approximately 2.1 kg. The experimental validation of the prototype’s limb angular positions and trajectories was achieved through the image processing of video-recorded movements, demonstrating a high correlation (0.9025 to 0.9560) in joint angular positions, except for the knee joint, where a correlation of 0.7071 was noted. This comprehensive approach from theoretical analysis to practical implementation showcases the potential of bio-inspired robotics in emulating complex biological locomotion.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bionic Design & Lightweight Engineering)
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Simulation and Controller Design for a Fish Robot with Control Fins
by
Sandhyarani Gumpina, Seungyeon Lee, Jeong-Hwan Kim, Hoon Cheol Park and Taesam Kang
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 317; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060317 - 25 May 2024
Abstract
In this paper, a nonlinear simulation block for a fish robot was designed using MATLAB Simulink. The simulation block incorporated added masses, hydrodynamic damping forces, restoring forces, and forces and moments due to dorsal fins, pectoral fins, and caudal fins into six-degree-of-freedom equations
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In this paper, a nonlinear simulation block for a fish robot was designed using MATLAB Simulink. The simulation block incorporated added masses, hydrodynamic damping forces, restoring forces, and forces and moments due to dorsal fins, pectoral fins, and caudal fins into six-degree-of-freedom equations of motion. To obtain a linearized model, we used three different nominal surge velocities (i.e., 0.2 m/s, 0.4 m/s, and 0.6 m/s). After obtaining output responses by applying pseudo-random binary signal inputs to a nonlinear model, an identification tool was used to obtain approximated linear models between inputs and outputs. Utilizing the obtained linearized models, two-degree-of-freedom proportional, integral, and derivative controllers were designed, and their characteristics were analyzed. For the 0.4 m/s nominal surge velocity models, the gain margins and phase margins of the surge, pitch, and yaw controllers were infinity and 69 degrees, 26.3 dB and 85 degrees, and infinity and 69 degrees, respectively. The bandwidths of surge, pitch, and yaw control loops were determined to be 2.3 rad/s, 0.17 rad/s, and 2.0 rad/s, respectively. Similar characteristics were observed when controllers designed for linear models were applied to the nonlinear model. When step inputs were applied to the nonlinear model, the maximum overshoot and steady-state errors were very small. It was also found that the nonlinear plant with three different nominal surge velocities could be controlled by a single controller designed for a linear model with a nominal surge velocity of 0.4 m/s. Therefore, controllers designed using linear approximation models are expected to work well with an actual nonlinear model.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bio-Inspired Flapping Wing Aerodynamics for Propulsion and Power Generation)
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