Module -4

Sonar:
A system for the detection of objects under water by emitting sound pulses and detecting or measuring
their return after being reflected.
ECHOLOCATION: Nature’s sonar system.
echolocation occurs when an animal emits a sound wave that bounces off an object, returning an echo
that provides information about the object’s distance and size.

Ex: Bats, Whales, and small mammals.

Vision: the processes light waves that travel from their source, bounce off surfaces throughout the
environment and enter the eyes.
Auditory: A system processes sound waves as they travel from their source, bounce off surfaces, and
enter the ears.
A neural systems can extract a great deal of information about the environment by interpreting the
complex patterns of reflected energy that their sense organs receive. In the case of sound, these waves
of reflected energy are referred to as echoes.
Biological Echolocation

 Found in various animals such as bats, dolphins, and some species of whales.

 Relies on the emission of sound waves, usually in the form of clicks or vocalizations.

 Animals emit sound waves and listen for the echoes produced when the sound waves bounce off

objects in their environment.

 By analyzing the echoes, animals can determine the location, distance, and even theshape of objects

around them.

 This ability is mainly used for navigation, hunting, and communication in the animal kingdom.

 Biological echolocation is a natural adaptation that has evolved over millions of years
Technological Echolocation

 Replicates the concept of biological echolocation using technological devices.

 Utilizes sound waves, typically generated by artificial sources such as sonar or ultrasonic

sensors.

 These devices emit sound waves and analyze the echoes that bounce back from objects.

 The information from the echoes is processed and interpreted by the technology togenerate

useful data, such as distance, location, and object recognition.

 Technological echolocation has applications in various fields, including navigation, robotics,

obstacle detection, and medical imaging.

 It is a human-engineered solution inspired by the natural abilities of animals.

Principle of Echolocation
 Sound Emission: Emits sound waves into its surroundings.
 Propagation of Sound Waves: The emitted sound waves travel through the environment,
spreading out in all directions.
 Object Interaction: When the sound waves encounter objects in the environment, The interaction
can involve reflection, scattering, or absorption of the sound waves.
 Echo Reception: Some of the sound waves that interact with objects bounce back or echo off
them. These echoes carry information about the objects' distance, shape, composition, and other
characteristics.
 Sensory Reception: The echolocating organism, has sensory receptors capable of detecting and
processing the returning echoes.
 Echo Interpretation: The information contained in the echoes is analyzed and interpreted. It
involves extracting the echoes and making sense of the spatial and temporal patterns present.
 Perception and Response: Based on the interpretation of the echoes, it can understand the
surrounding environment. This perception enables the organism to navigate, locate objects,
detect obstacles, or perform other relevant tasks.
Ultrasonography
• Ultrasonography is a medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce
images of the internal organs and tissues of the body. It is also known as ultrasound imaging or
sonography.

• The ultrasound machine emits high-frequency sound waves (usually in the range of 2 to 18 MHz)
that travel through the body and bounce back off of the internal organs and tissues. The returning
echoes are captured by the ultrasound machine and used to create images of the internal structures.

• Ultrasonography is a non-invasive, safe, and painless imaging method that can be used to visualize a
wide range of structures within the body, including the organs of the abdomen, pelvis, and chest, as
well as the uterus, fetus, and other soft tissues. It is commonly used in prenatal care to monitor the
growth and development of the fetus and to diagnose any potential problems.

• Ultrasonography has several advantages over other imaging methods, including its low cost, ease of
use, and lack of ionizing radiation. It is also portable and can be used in a variety of settings, making
it a valuable tool for medical professionals.
 Advantages of Ultrasonography

 Non-invasive: It does not involve any incisions or injections, making it a safe and convenient imaging method.

 No ionizing radiation: It does not use ionizing radiation, making it a safer option for patients, especially pregnant
women and children.

 Real-time imaging: this provides real-time images that can be used to monitor the movement and function of internal
organs and tissues in real-time.

 Portable: Ultrasonography machines are portable and can be used in a variety of settings, making it a valuable tool for
emergency and rural medicine.

 Cost-effective: it is a cost-effective imaging method that does not require any special preparation or recovery time.

 Versatile: it can be used to image a wide range of structures within the body.
 Limitations of Ultrasonography

 Limited depth: it has limited depth and is not as effective at imaging deep structures or those obscured by bones or gas.

 Operator dependence: The quality of the images produced by ultrasonography depends heavily on the skills and
experience of the operator.

 Limited resolution: it has limited resolution compared to other imaging methods, making it less effective at visualizing
small structures or detecting small changes in tissue.

 Limitations in overweight patients: it has limited usefulness in overweight patients due to the difficulty in obtaining
clear images through the layers of fat.

 Limitations in detecting some types of cancer: Ultrasonography may not be as effective at detecting certain types of
cancer, such as pancreatic cancer, due to the lack of characteristic signs on ultrasound images.
Sonars:
Sonar, which stands for Sound Navigation and Ranging, is a technology that uses soundwaves to detect and
locate underwater objects.
Uses of Sonars

Sonars are commonly used for a variety of purposes, including:

 Naval applications: Sonars are used by naval vessels to detect and locate other ships, submarines,
and underwater obstacles, allowing them to navigate safely and avoid potential collisions.

 Fishery: Sonars are used in the fishing industry to locate schools of fish and determine the depth
of the water, allowing fishermen to more efficiently target their catch.

 Oceanography: To study the physical and biological properties of the ocean, including the
structure of the ocean floor, the movement of currents, and the distribution of marine life.

 Environmental monitoring: Sonars are used to monitor the health of marine ecosystems, track the
migration patterns of whales and other marine mammals, and assess the impact of human
activities on the ocean environment.

 Sonar technology works by emitting a series of sound pulses and listening for the echoes that
bounce back from underwater objects. The time it takes for the echoes to return is used to
calculate the distance to the objects, and the frequency and pattern of the echoes are used to
determine their size and shape.
Photosynthesis:
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy from the sun into chemical
energy stored in organic molecules. This process is critical for life on Earth, as it provides the primary source of energy for
all living organisms
Photo voltaic cell
BIONIC LEAF:
Bird Flying:

Birds fly by flapping their wings and using their body weight and the movement of the air to stay aloft. They navigate
using a combination of visual cues, the Earth's magnetic field, and celestial navigation.
Aircraft, on the other hand, use engines to generate thrust and lift from the wings to stay in the air. They navigate using
a combination of instruments and systems, including GPS (Global Positioning System), which uses satellite signals
to determine the aircraft's position and help it navigate. Although birds and aircraft both fly, their mechanisms and
methods of navigation are quite different
Birds flying influenced the invention of aircraft in that early aviation pioneers, such as the Wright
brothers, observed and studied the flight of birds to develop their flying machines. They noted how birds used
their wings and body to achieve lift and control their flight, and used this knowledge to design and improve
aircraft.
The science behind the birds flies using its wings and holding their body weight in air

 Wing Shape: The wings are curved on the upper surface and flatter on the bottom, creating a pressure
difference known as Bernoulli's principle. This pressure difference generates lift, allowing birds to stay
airborne.
 Wing Muscles: Birds have strong flight muscles attached to their wings, allowing them to flap their wings
vigorously. The up and down stroke motion generates thrust, propelling the bird forward through the air.
 Hollow Bones: Birds have lightweight bones that are hollow and filled with air sacs.
 Feathers: Feathers play a crucial role in flight. They provide both lift and control. The primary feathers at
the tips of the wings help generate lift.
 Respiratory System: Birds have a unique respiratory system that allows for efficient oxygen exchange. Air
flows unidirectionally through their lungs.
 Efficient Circulatory System: Birds have a highly efficient circulatory system that delivers oxygen-rich
blood to their muscles and organs. Their heart rate increases during flight.
 Flight Control: Birds have remarkable coordination and control over their flight. They can adjust the
angle and shape of their wings, control their speed and direction, and perform intricate aerial maneuvers
using their tail, wings, and body movements.
GPS Technology

GPS (Global Positioning System) is a technology that uses a network of satellites to provide location and
time information to users

GPS technology has a wide range of applications, including navigation, mapping, surveying, search and
rescue, and military operations. The accuracy and reliability of GPS have improved over time, and the
technology continues to evolve with new developments in satellite and receiver technology, as well as the
integration of GPS with other technologies such as augmented reality and artificial intelligence.
 Here are some key components of GPS technology:
 Satellites: The GPS satellite network consists of 24-32 satellites orbiting the Earth. These satellites continuously
broadcast signals containing information about their location, time, and status.
 Receivers: GPS receivers, which are typically integrated into devices such as smartphones, navigation systems, and
aircraft, receive signals from GPS satellites and use the information to calculate the user's position.
• Control segment: The control segment consists of ground-based monitoring stations that track the GPS satellites,
check the accuracy of their signals, and make adjustments as needed.
• User segment: The user segment consists of the GPS receivers used by individuals and organizations to obtain location
and time information
Importance of GPS Technology in Aircrafts
 Positioning and Navigation: GPS helps aircraft accurately determine their position and follow precise routes.

 Flight Planning: GPS assists pilots and planners in creating optimal flight plans, considering waypoints, altitudes,
and current information on navigation aids, weather, and airspace restrictions.
 Approach and Landing: GPS-based navigation systems provide precise guidance during approach and landing,
even in low visibility. This enhances safety and reduces reliance on ground-based navigation aids.
 Air Traffic Management: GPS is integrated into air traffic management systems, improving airspace efficiency,
reducing congestion, optimizing routing, and enhancing aircraft tracking and situational awareness for controllers.
 Collision Avoidance: GPS contributes to collision avoidance systems like TCAS and ADS-B. These systems use
GPS data to track nearby aircraft, provide alerts, and ensure safe separation.
 Flight Data Recording: GPS data is often recorded by flight data recording systems, aiding post-flight analysis,
accident investigation, and overall flight safety.
Bio Mimicking Birds Fly for Aircraft Technology

• Wing design: The shape of bird wings has inspired the design of aircraft wings, which have evolved to be more
aerodynamic and fuel-efficient as a result.
• Flapping-wing drones: Researchers have developed drones that use flapping wings to fly, mimicking the way birds and
insects fly.
• Soaring algorithms: Soaring refers to the flight technique used by birds and certain aircraft to stay aloft and travel long
distances with minimal energy expenditure.
• Landing gear: The legs and feet of birds have inspired the design of landing gear for aircraft, with shock-absorbing and
retractable structures that help absorb impact upon landing.
Lotus Leaf Effect:

The lotus leaf effect, also known as the "lotus effect," refers to the ability of lotus leaves to repel water and self-clean
through their unique surface structure.

The Principle of Super hydrophobic Surfaces

The super hydrophobic effect refers to the ability of certain surfaces to repel water and resist wetting. Super
hydrophobic surfaces are characterized by a high contact angle between water droplets and the surface, typically
over 150 degrees, and a low contact angle hysteresis, meaning that the droplets roll off the surface with ease
Lotus Leaf Effect:

The lotus leaf surface has a microscale and nanoscale structure that consists of numerous small bumps and wax-coated
hairs. This structure creates a high contact angle between the water droplets and the surface, causing the droplets to roll
off and carry away any dirt or debris. This self-cleaning property is due to the lotus leaf's ability to repel water and
resist adhesion

Representing the surface of lotus leaf

Representing the behavious of water drops on slanted surface of

a) a lotus leaf surface, and b) any other solid surface
Materials and Examples

Super hydrophobic surfaces are created by modifying the surface chemistry and structure of materials to achieve
extremely high water repellency.
• Fluoropolymers: polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP) coatings.
 Silica-based Nanoparticles: silica nanoparticles coated with hydrophobic agents like alkylsilanes.
 Carbon-based Materials: Carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene, and carbon nanofibers are used to create super
hydrophobic surfaces.
 Metal-based Materials: Chemical etching or electrochemical etching, on metals like aluminum, copper, or stainless
steel. These structures, combined with appropriate surface treatments, enhance water repellency.

 Polymer-based Materials: example, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) can be modified and structured to create rough
surfaces with low surface energy, resulting in super hydrophobic behavior.
 Natural Materials: lotus leaves and butterfly wings, have inherently super hydrophobic properties.
 Hybrid Materials: Combinations of different materials. hybrid coatings can be formed by combining nanoparticles,
polymers, and other materials to achieve synergistic effects and optimize super hydrophobic properties.
Techniques used to prepare super hydrophobic surfaces

 Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): CVD involves the deposition of thin films onto a substrate through chemical
reactions in the vapor phase.

 Sol-Gel Method: The sol-gel process involves the synthesis of inorganic materials from a solution (sol) that
undergoes a gelation process to form a solid network.

 Electrochemical Methods: Electrochemical techniques like anodization and electroplating can be employed to create
super hydrophobic surfaces.
 Plasma Treatment: Plasma treatment involves exposing the material surface to low- pressure plasma, which can
modify the surface chemistry and morphology.
 Micro/Nanostructuring Techniques: Various fabrication methods can be used to create micro- and nanostructures on
surfaces, which contribute to super hydrophobicity.
Engineering Applications of Super Hydrophobic Surfaces

Electronics Industry:
 Waterproofing Electronics: coatings on circuit boards, connectors, and other sensitive electronic parts, water ingress
can be minimized, improving the reliability and durability of electronic devices.
 Moisture Resistance: These coatings prevent moisture from reaching critical electronic components, reducing the risk
of short circuits, corrosion, and malfunction.
 Self-Cleaning Displays: Super hydrophobic coatings applied to displays and touch screens repel water, oils, and
fingerprints, making them easier to clean and maintain.
Automobile Industry:
• Anti-Fogging Windows and Mirrors: automobile windows and mirrors to prevent fogging or condensation formation.
• Self-Cleaning Surfaces: the exterior surfaces of vehicles can facilitate self-cleaning by repelling water, dirt, and
contaminants.
 Fuel Efficiency: Super hydrophobic coatings can reduce drag and frictional resistance on vehicle surfaces, leading to
improved aerodynamics and fuel efficiency. +
Aerospace Industry:
 Anti-Icing and Deicing: coatings applied to aircraft surfaces can prevent ice formation or facilitate ice removal.
 Drag Reduction: coatings on aircraft surfaces can minimize frictional drag during flight, leading to improved fuel
efficiency and reduced emissions. The water- repellent property helps maintain a smooth airflow over the surface,
optimizing aerodynamic performance.
 Corrosion Resistance: protect aerospace components from corrosion caused by exposure to moisture, rain, or harsh
environments.
Plant Burrs and Velcro

Plant burrs, such as those found on burdock, inspired the invention of Velcro, a popular hook-and-loop fastening system.

b)
Figure: a) The globular flower heads of burdock, b) indicating the hook shape
 b)
Figure: Image showing a) hook and loops normal view of Velcro, b) microscopic view of hooksand
loops of velcro
Materials Used in Velcro Technology
Velcro technology uses two main materials: nylon and polyester.
1. The nylon is extruded to create tiny hooks that are then cut and shaped into the familiar
hook shape. These hooks are designed to latch onto the loop side of the Velcro.

Figure: The hook of Velcro

The loop side of Velcro is made of polyester. Polyester is a synthetic fabric that is strong
and durable. The polyester is woven into a fabric that has many tiny loops. When the loops are
pressed against the hook side of the Velcro, the hooks latch onto the loops, creating a secure
attachment.

Figure: The loop of Velcro

In addition to nylon and polyester, the adhesive used to attach the Velcro to surfaces can
also vary. Some types of Velcro use a pressure-sensitive adhesive that can be easily removed
without leaving a residue, while others use a stronger adhesive that creates a more permanent
bond.
Engineering Applications of Velcro Technology Clothing and footwear:
Velcro is commonly used in clothing and footwear for closures and adjustable straps. It can be easily opened and closed,
making it convenient for users with limited dexterity or mobility.
Medical devices:
Velcro is used in medical devices such as braces, splints, and compression garments for its adjustable and secure
fastening capabilities.

Aerospace equipment:
Velcro is used in aerospace equipment, such as satellites and spacecraft, to secure components in place and prevent them
from vibrating or shifting during launch or flight.
Automotive industry:
Velcro is used in the automotive industry for a range of applications, such as securing carpets and headliners, and
attaching door panels and seat cushions.
Packaging industry:
Velcro is used in the packaging industry for resealable closures on bags, pouches, and other types of packaging.
Sports equipment:
Velcro is used in sports equipment, such as helmets and gloves, for its ability to provide a secure and adjustable fit.
Shark Skin and Friction Reducing Swim Suits

The denticles on shark skin have evolved over millions of years to reduce drag and increase swimming efficiency. These
structures disrupt the flow of water around the shark's body, reducing turbulence and minimizing the formation of
vortices. As a result, sharks can swim faster and with less effort compared to other fish.

Figure: Indicating the denticles on shark skin

Turbulence in Water
Turbulence is when a fluid, like water or air, becomes chaotic and unpredictable. Instead of flowing smoothly, it swirls
and forms irregular patterns. This turbulence creates resistance or drag, which makes it harder for things to move through
the fluid. In swimming, reducing turbulence is important because it helps to minimize resistance, allowing swimmers to
move more easily and efficiently through the water.

Reducing Drag
When a shark swims through the water, the water normally flows smoothly over its body. However, the denticles on the
shark's skin disrupt this smooth flow. They create small disturbances in the water, which helps to break up turbulent
currents that can slow the shark down. By reducing turbulence, the denticles make the flow of water around the shark's body
smoother. This smoother flow reduces the resistance or drags the shark experiences as it moves through the water, allowing
it to swim more efficiently.
Frictionless Swim Suits
Shark skin has inspired the development of friction-reducing swim suits, which are designed to improve the
performance of swimmers by reducing drag in the water.
Friction-reducing swim suits use a similar structure to that of shark skin to reduce drag and improve swimmer
performance. These suits are made from high-tech materials that mimic the properties of shark skin, such as the shape and
size of the denticles.
Materials Used
The materials used to create friction-reducing swim suits inspired by shark skin include:
 Polyurethane: A type of polymer that is commonly used in the production of swim suits, as it is durable and can be
molded into a variety of shapes.
 Lycra/Spandex: Lycra and spandex are made from the same synthetic fiber, which is technically called elastane. Elastane
fibers are typically composed of a polymer called polyurethane which is then blended with other fibers like nylon,
polyester, or cotton) that is known for its stretch and flexibility.
 High-tech fabrics: A range of high-tech fabrics have been developed specifically for use in swim suits. These fabrics are
designed to be lightweight, water-repellent, and hydrodynamic, and often incorporate materials such as silicone or Teflon
to reduce drag.
Examples
 Speedo Fastskin: This swim suit was designed based on the structure of shark skin and is made from a high-tech fabric
that incorporates a range of materials to reduce drag and turbulence in the water.
 Arena Powerskin Carbon Ultra: Another example of a friction-reducing swim suit, the Arena Powerskin Carbon Ultra is
made from a combination of polyurethane and high-tech fabrics to provide a hydrodynamic and form-fitting design.
 TYR Venzo: The TYR Venzo is a friction-reducing swim suit that incorporates a unique surface structure inspired by
shark skin, as well as other advanced materials to improve swimmer performance.
Kingfisher Beak and Bullet Train
The kingfisher beak is an excellent example of nature's design for efficient diving and fishing. Its unique shape and
structure enable the kingfisher to minimize the impact of water resistance and achieve a successful dive.
The Physics behind the Kingfisher Beak Streamlining:
The beak of a kingfisher is long, slender, and sharply pointed, which helps reduce drag or air resistance as the bird dives
into the water. The streamlined shape allows the kingfisher to smoothly cut through the air and minimize the energy required
for the dive.
Surface Tension:
The sharp beak of the kingfisher helps to pierce through the water's surface, breaking the surface tension and reducing
the force required to enter the water.
Minimizing Splash:
The beak's narrow and pointed design helps create a smooth entry by minimizing the disturbance of the water surface,
allowing the kingfisher to enter silently and effectively.
Technological Importance
Nature-inspired engineering can lead to innovative solutions that improve the performance and efficiency of machines.
Shinkansen bullet train of Japan is the best example which used the biomimicry of kingfisher’s beak.
Aerodynamic Design:
The streamlined design minimizes drag as the train travels at high speeds, allowing it to maintain stability and efficiency. The
smooth, tapered shape reduces the pressure difference between the front and rear of the train, reducing noise and vibration.
Pressure Wave Reduction:
When a high-speed train moves through a tunnel, it creates pressure waves that can cause noise and discomfort for passengers.
The nose of the Shinkansen is designed to reduce these pressure waves by effectively managing airflow and minimizing the
compression and expansion of air as the train enters and exits tunnels.
 Human Blood Substitutes

Basic Requirement for Human Blood Substitutes

Effective Oxygen Transport:
Human blood substitutes must be capable of efficiently carrying and delivering oxygen to the body's tissues. This is a
fundamental function of natural blood that any substitute should be able to replicate or improve upon.
Safety and Compatibility:
Blood substitutes should be safe for use in the human body and well-tolerated by the recipient. They should not cause
significant adverse reactions, toxicity, or immune responses. Additionally, they should not interfere with normal blood
clotting or other essential physiological processes.
Storage and Transport:
Human blood substitutes should be stable and capable of being stored and transported easily. This is particularly
important in emergency situations or areas where access to blood products may be limited. The ability to store and transport
substitutes effectively ensures their availability when needed.
Cost-Effectiveness and Scalability:
Blood substitutes should be cost-effective and scalable for widespread use in medical settings. They should be affordable
and feasible to produce in large quantities, meeting the potential demand for blood products.
Types of HBS
There are two types of human blood substitutes - hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers (HBOCs) and perfluorocarbons (PFCs).

Hemoglobin-Based Oxygen Carriers (HBOCs)

Hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers (HBOCs) are a type of human blood substitute that is designed to carry and deliver
oxygen to the body's tissues. They are made by isolating hemoglobin, the protein responsible for carrying oxygen in red
blood cells, and formulating it into a solution or suspension that can be infused into a patient's bloodstream.
Perflourocarbons (PFCs)
Perfluorocarbons (PFCs) are a type of human blood substitute that are designed to deliver oxygen to the body's tissues.
Unlike hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers (HBOCs), which are based on natural proteins, PFCs are synthetic chemicals that
are similar in structure to some types of industrial solvents.
Advantages of hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers
Increased oxygen-carrying capacity:
HBOCs can potentially carry more oxygen per unit volume than whole blood.
Universal compatibility:
Unlike blood transfusions, which require blood typing and cross-matching to ensure compatibility, HBOCs can
potentially be universally compatible with any blood type.
Longer shelf life:
HBOCs have the potential for longer storage and shelf life compared to donated blood, which has a limited lifespan.
Reduced risk of infections:
Blood transfusions carry a small risk of transmitting infections, such as viruses or bacteria, from the donor to the
recipient.
Availability in remote or challenging settings:
In remote or underdeveloped areas where access to safe blood transfusions may be limited, HBOCs can potentially
provide a viable alternative for oxygen delivery. This can be particularly beneficial in military settings, disaster relief efforts,
or during transport of patients where immediate access to blood is not feasible.
Limited oxygen release:
One of the challenges with HBOCs is ensuring efficient oxygen release to the tissues. The oxygen dissociation curve
of HBOCs may differ from that of natural red blood cells, potentially leading to inadequate oxygen delivery to tissues in
certain conditions.
Short half-life:
HBOCs tend to have a shorter half-life in the body compared to natural red blood cells.
Nitric oxide scavenging:
HBOCs have a tendency to scavenge nitric oxide, a molecule important for regulating blood vessel dilation and
maintaining normal blood flow. Excessive nitric oxide scavenging by HBOCs can lead to vasoconstriction, impairing blood
flow to vital organs and potentially causing adverse cardiovascular effects.
Renal toxicity:
Some HBOCs have shown a potential for renal toxicity, causing damage to the kidneys.
Immunogenicity and adverse reactions:
HBOCs can trigger immune responses in the body, potentially leading to allergic reactions or other adverse events.
Regulatory challenges:
HBOCs are subject to rigorous regulatory scrutiny due to their potential risks and complex nature.
Interference with diagnostic tests:
HBOCs can interfere with certain laboratory tests, such as those measuring bilirubin or liver enzymes.