Biomimicry, also known biomimetics, constitutes a thorough analysis of nature, along with its associated models, systems, processes, and elements to copy or garner characteristics from to better resolve and deal with current issues that plague human civilization.http://www.biomimicry.net/

These two terms, biomimicry and biomimetics, originate from the Greek words bios- life, and mimesis- imitate. Other terms frequently used with reference to biomimicry are bionics, bio-inspiration, and biognosis.http://www.biomimicry.net/

We have had to develop and evolve a great deal of technology to be able fly airplanes, or float ships, and even send capsules into space. Typically the invention process is one that is inspired by any number of factors or creative processes, but almost always science plays the most significant role, displaying mankind's synthetic mastery over the world.

However, natural processes, the products of natural selection and evolution, have garnered impressive results as well; what with the biological features that allow fish to propel themselves in water, or enabling butterflies to fly, or allowing hummingbirds to fly backwards, and a multitude of other traits that enable creatures in nature to accomplish extraordinary feats thus far considered impossible for human machinery. It seems that now, more than ever, we are learning more of these techniques from nature.http://www.biomimicry.net/

Instances where biomimicry has played a prominent role in the development of a product involve research for the visually impaired, inspired by bat echolocation, and Kevlar in bulletproof vests, modeled on spider web.http://www.pbs.org/saf/1308/teaching/teaching.htm

Biomimicry is the study of nature's best designs and imitating them to solve human problems.http://www.biomimicry.net/

Velcro was developed from the concept of burrs sticking hopelessly to hair or clothing. http://brainz.org/15-coolest-cases-biomimicry/

Bumps similar to the bumps on the flippers of a humpback whale can be used to create greater efficiency when applied to wind turbines or hydroelectric turbines. These bumps are called tubercles. http://brainz.org/15-coolest-cases-biomimicry/

Based on the varying pattern and texture on sharks' skin, scientists have been able to develop swim suits that have reduced friction. This application has also been used to reduce friction in the water for the hulls of ships.http://brainz.org/15-coolest-cases-biomimicry/

Insects are often a more efficient model or pattern to use when designing robots than human beings. Insects can navigate rough terrain better than the human model.http://brainz.org/15-coolest-cases-biomimicry/