Evaluation of Biological Deployable Systems

Abstract

The paper presents a survey of deployable structural systems found in some biological organisms. Four biological systems are presented and analysed in terms of their morphology, kinematics and structural characteristics. This presentation is followed by an evaluation of the similarity of the biological systems with existing deployable structures and of potential applications. The four biological systems surveyed are two types of insect wings – Coleoptera (beetles) and locust; locomotion of the earthworm; and the jaw of the egg eater snake ( Dasypeltis). These systems represent a diversity of deployable mechanisms. The paper concludes by associating the surveyed and other biological systems with known deployable structural systems such as: folded plates, tensioned membrane, pneumatic tubes ( pneus) and structures composed of articulated rigid members.