Bio-inspired design is a relatively new term. More wide-spread terms are biomimetics and biomimicry. Bio-inspired design has been used to develop innovative technical solutions in almost every engineering field. When the idea of analyzing biological systems systematically emerged in the mid-20th century as bionics, the main focus was on control and communication systems (Keto 1960). Keto (1960) proposed applying bio-inspired control and communication in electronics, aeronautics, and navigation. However, historic examples of bio-inspired design already include further application areas. For example, the aerodynamics of biological systems were frequently regarded as models to conceptualize parachutes or early flying machines (Nachtigall and Wisser 2015, p.6). Modern examples of bio-inspired design are applied in technical fields such as mechanical engineering, architecture, industrial design, software engineering, robotics, medical technology, and so on.

The integration of augmented reality (AR) revolutionizes this process by enabling learners to interact with biological systems in immersive 3D environments. Students can visualize biomimetic processes, simulate real-world applications, and collaborate on innovative projects using AR tools. This blend of technology and nature enhances understanding, creativity, and problem-solving in STEM education.

Despite its high potential for innovation, the application of bio-inspired design presents challenges. Major challenges are disciplinary barriers, i.e., the goals, working approaches, and the fact that language of biology and technical product development are fundamentally different. Biology is a natural science; it aims to understand living systems. Technical product development, or engineering design, aims to develop technical systems. The difference between the biological goal of understanding and the technical goal of development reflects the different working approaches of biologists and engineers. This clash frequently causes problems in bio-inspired design.

Table 1. 10 Amazing Aspects of Bio-inspired Design, (Hashemi Farzaneh,2019)

10 Amazing Aspects of Bio-inspired Design

Specification

Abundance of Biological Solutions

Offers a vast pool of possible solutions to technical problems.

Digital databases access to the several thousands of biological inspirations.

Optimization

a biological system is optimized, the bio-inspired design is optimized as well.

Synergy Effects and Transdisciplinarity

The technical biology is a prerequisite for bio-inspired design

Integration of Material, Shape, and Function

Form follows function: Biological systems often realize functions on multiple scales using both composite material properties and shapes.

Discovery Beyond that Which is Human-like

Many biological solutions with high potential for technical application

Flexibility of Bio-inspired Design

Flexible design approach

Wide range area of application

Different design methods

Sustainability (or not?)

Environmentally-friendly

Biodiversity

Bio-inspired design can have a positive societal impact

Biologization

Traditional natural sciences beside the technical and engineering disciplines tackle some of the biggest challenges: energy consumption and a sustainable economy

Multifunctionality of Biological Systems

Biological systems have to fulfil multiple functions using limited resources