Biomimetics

DESIGN
BY
NATURE

During the 1950s, Otto Schmitt coined the term biomimetics to describe
an electronic feedback circuit he designed to function in a similar way to neural networks. This invention later became known as the Schmitt Trigger. Over the coming years several synonyms such as bionics, biomimesis, biomimicry, biognosis propped up in various parts of the world to describe developments inspired by the functional aspects of biological structures.

Biomimetics is a compound word of Greek origin: bio- meaning life and – mimesis meaning to copy: the outcome is the interpolation of natural mechanisms and structures into engineering design. The cross-disciplinary nature of the field has established a platform for technology transfer. Biomimetic studies effectively serve as vehicles to migrate ideas inspired by biology into practical solutions to everyday problems. Famous examples include VELCRO (inspired by the effect of burrs of burdock attaching to a dogĀ“s fur after walks in the forest) and LOTUSAN (inspired by the self-cleaning properties of lotus leaves)

THE
PINE
CONE
EFFECT

The study of moisture induced shape change in botanical structures such as
the pine cone inspired the design of INOTEK™ textiles so that their air permeability adapts in response to humidity changes in the micro-climate of the clothing system.

Conventional fibres swell as they absorb moisture. This causes the yarn to
swell which in turn reduces the air permeability of the textile structure. INOTEK™ textiles function in the opposite manner.

When they absorb moisture INOTEK™ textiles become more permeable
to air. INOTEK™ fibres close causing the yarn to tighten. This creates microscopic pockets of air in the textile structure. In dry conditions INOTEK™ fibres open up like a pine cone, reducing permeability to air and increasing their insulation properties

SMART
FABRICS

INOTEK™ A SMART FABRIC
& INTERACTIVE TEXTILE

Smart Fabrics and Interactive Textiles (SFITs) are defined as having an in-built ability to respond to external stimuli, including electrical, mechanical, thermal, chemical or magnetic.

INOTEK™ textiles use humidity as a trigger to react to changes in the micro-climate in order to keep the wearer DRYER for longer and get dry QUICKER.

By MMT Textiles Limited