Bioinspired Actuators and Sensors

Minoru Taya is Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Washington and Director of the Center for Intelligent Materials and Systems (CIMS).

From authors renowned in the fields of engineering and biology, this is the first book to integrate sensor and actuator technology with bioinspired design. Beginning with detailed descriptions of actuation and sensing mechanisms in plants and animals, the authors move on to apply these principles to synthetic design, offering in-depth knowledge of the development of state-of-the-art smart materials and devices. All of this is supported with a range of real-world applications, from tactile sensory systems in insects linked with the development of robotic hands, to the structural colour systems in nature used to inspire camouflage technology. Further examples are given of successful designs along with their integrated autonomous systems, such as flying and swimming, unmanned systems, and autonomous zero-energy building design. With a wide interdisciplinary appeal, this is an ideal resource for any student, practising engineer, or researcher interested in the connection between natural systems and synthetic design.

This is the first book to integrate sensor and actuator technology with bioinspired design. Experts in the field apply principles of natural actuation and sensing mechanisms to the synthetic design of smart materials and devices. Ideal for students, practising engineers, and researchers in both engineering and biology.

1. Introduction; 2. Principles of structural organization and functions in biological species; 3. Sensory and motor systems of the living world; 4. Synthetic sensing materials and sensors; 5. Synthetic active materials and actuators; 6. Bioinspired designs of sensors, actuators; 7. Design of autonomous systems.