BIOLOGICAL DESIGNS
TAKING LESSONS FROM THE EXPERTS
MUSIC TO A SPIDER'S FEET
Spiders use webs to extend their senses. Rather than relying on their often poor eyesight, spiders sort the complex vibrations transmitted through their webs into information. They "hear" everything from the position of struggling prey to the species of potential mates.
How do they manage this?
To better understand these tiny engineers, we've done some engineering of our own.
MANNEQUINS
Using precision 3D scanning technology, we created personalized mannequins for the clothing and textiles students.
This is a simple application of technology which will be useful for many biologically and ergonomically oriented projects.
We developed a robust, cheap process, so that this project can be continued annually.
A SINGING FOUNTAIN
Thinking about vibrations in spiderwebs reminded me of this idea I had in high school.
I've started researching the feasibility of the design, and calculating cable lengths and tensions to create audible notes.
Several of my teachers think the idea is worth a try, so stay tuned for more!
(Supporting structure not pictured.)