Designer's Guide to Lab Practice

Design Thinking for Biology provides a framework for integrating design thinking into the field of biology, bridging the gap between design speculation and scientific reality, and facilitating the translation of complex biological processes and theories into clear concepts for those without science and engineering backgrounds.

Format: Hardback
Length: 154 pages
Publication date: 12 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The field of bio-inspired design seeks to bridge the gap between design speculation and scientific reality, as well as between contemporary design thinking and the traditional engineering approaches that currently dominate the bio-technologies sector. By offering a comprehensive blueprint for experimental design strategies and providing illustrative examples of how to create a research network from the perspective of a design practitioner without formal scientific training, this field aims to make complex biological processes and theories accessible to a broader audience.

Moreover, bio-inspired design seeks to translate these complex concepts into clear and accessible ideas that can be understood by individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those without science and engineering expertise. This approach recognizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and seeks to bring together experts from different fields to explore the potential applications of bio-inspired design in fields such as medicine, agriculture, and environmental sustainability.

One of the key strengths of bio-inspired design is its ability to harness the natural world's inherent beauty and complexity to create innovative and sustainable solutions. By drawing inspiration from the structures, behaviors, and processes found in nature, designers can develop new products, systems, and technologies that are more efficient, effective, and environmentally friendly than their traditional counterparts.

For example, bio-inspired design has been used to develop new materials that are stronger, lighter, and more durable than traditional materials, such as carbon fiber and Kevlar. These materials are derived from natural sources, such as spider webs and bamboo, and have the potential to revolutionize industries such as aerospace, automotive, and construction.

Similarly, bio-inspired design has been used to develop new agricultural practices that are more sustainable and efficient than traditional farming methods. By studying the behavior of plants and animals in their natural environments, designers can develop new crop varieties, irrigation systems, and pest control strategies that are less reliant on chemical pesticides and fertilizers, and that have a lower impact on the environment.

In conclusion, bio-inspired design is a rapidly growing field that has the potential to transform the way we think about and approach design and innovation. By bridging the gap between design speculation and scientific reality, and by translating complex biological processes and theories into clear and accessible concepts, bio-inspired design offers a blueprint for creating a more sustainable and equitable future. As we continue to explore the potential of this field, we can expect to see more innovative and groundbreaking solutions that will have a positive impact on our world.

Weight: 471g
Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032426860