Nature-Inspired Innovation: Evaluating Biomimicry in Hull Design for Enhanced Engineering Performance

Abstract

This study investigates the potential of biomimicry to enhance engineering and design through an experimental comparison of four nature-inspired hull designs—Flat-Bottom, Shark Skin-Inspired, Turtle Shell-Inspired, and Fish Fin-Inspired Hulls—by assessing their performance in water in terms of drag, Reynolds number, cross-sectional area, and buoyancy. The research includes a comprehensive literature review that examines the application of biomimicry across various fields, such as wearable technology, medical advancements, and engineering principles, demonstrating its broad impact on innovation and sustainability. The methodology integrates experimental designs with advanced computational simulations and case study analyses, providing a thorough evaluation of how biomimetic principles can be applied to solve complex engineering challenges. Comparative analysis reveals that biomimetic designs generally outperform traditional methods, though challenges like material limitations and scalability must be addressed. The study concludes by exploring future directions, including the integration of AI and digital modeling, to further enhance biomimicry’s role in developing innovative, sustainable design solutions.

Introduction

Biomimicry, the practice of designing materials, structures, and systems modeled on biological entities and processes, is a powerful interdisciplinary approach that draws from nature’s most effective solutions to address human challenges¹. This concept has been applied across a wide range of domains, including engineering, architecture, and medical applications, where it has inspired innovative and sustainable solutions. By emulating nature’s time-tested patterns, engineers and designers can develop products that are not only sustainable but also highly efficient and adaptable². Widely recognized examples of biomimicry include the development of Velcro, inspired by the way burrs stick to animal fur³ , the creation of aerodynamic designs based on the streamlined shape of a kingfisher’s beak⁴, and the design of energy-efficient buildings modeled after termite mounds⁵.

The growing interest in biomimicry as a source of innovation emphasizes the need to systematically explore its impact on engineering and design⁶. While previous studies have explored biomimicry in various applications, this research extends these principles by experimentally evaluating their hydrodynamic efficiency in hull designs. This study aims to investigate how nature-inspired strategies can enhance the performance of engineered structures, with a particular focus on hull design⁷. By reviewing the literature and conducting experimental research, the study seeks to demonstrate the potential of biomimicry to drive innovation and sustainability, specifically in improving drag reduction, buoyancy, and overall performance in hull designs.

The central hypothesis of this study is that hull designs inspired by biological forms will outperform traditional designs in terms of drag, buoyancy, and velocity,

thus demonstrating the practical benefits of integrating biomimetic principles into engineering and design processes⁸. To support this investigation, the following literature review will examine how biomimicry principles have been applied in various engineering and design contexts, providing a foundation for the experimental research and comparative analysis that follows.

Literature Review

Methodology

This literature review was conducted to explore the diverse applications of biomimicry in engineering and design, focusing on studies that demonstrate the practical benefits of nature-inspired solutions. The selection criteria prioritized articles based on their relevance to the core theme of biomimicry in engineering and design, with particular emphasis on the novelty of the application, interdisciplinary scope, and the rigor of the research methodologies employed⁹.

Studies were included based on their direct application of biomimicry principles across a range of fields, including wearable technology, medical advancements, structural engineering, and optimization algorithms. The chosen articles utilized various research methods to explore and validate biomimetic applications, ensuring a comprehensive representation of the field¹⁰.

By synthesizing findings from these diverse approaches, the review aims to provide a broad understanding of how biomimicry principles are being applied to address complex engineering challenges. The careful consideration of inclusion and exclusion criteria ensured that the review encapsulates a wide spectrum of innovative and interdisciplinary applications, offering valuable insights into the current state and future potential of biomimicry in engineering and design¹¹.

Key Themes in Biomimicry Applications

Wearable Technology

The integration of biomimicry into wearable technology has driven significant advancements, particularly in specialized fields such as aerospace. The article ”Utilization of Biomimicry and Wearable Sensors in Extramuscular Assisted Spacesuit Glove Design”dansereau2021utilization explores how biomimicry, combined with wearable sensors, can enhance astronaut dexterity and functionality. By drawing inspiration from natural organisms known for their structural efficiency—such as the lightweight yet strong framework of certain insect exoskeletons—this study demonstrates how the design of spacesuit gloves can be significantly improved. The resulting biomimetic gloves are not only more flexible and durable but are also better suited to the challenging environment of space. These innovations lead to enhanced usability and performance, which are critical for the success of space missions. This study highlights the tangible improvements biomimicry can bring to wearable technology, particularly in demanding and specialized environments.

Biomimicry in Medical Engineering and Design Principles

Biomimicry is revolutionizing both the medical and engineering fields by applying nature-inspired strategies to complex challenges. In medical applications, biomimicry significantly advances tissue engineering, as demonstrated by the study ”Engineering Complex Orthopaedic Tissues Via Strategic Biomimicry”¹². This research illustrates how mimicking the hierarchical organization of bone and cartilage enhances the development of orthopedic tissue scaffolds, improving their compatibility, functionality, and integration. These advancements are crucial for creating effective medical implants and regenerative treatments, promising to improve patient outcomes and reduce recovery times while revolutionizing the treatment of complex orthopedic conditions.

In the broader realm of engineering and design, biomimicry fosters invaluable cross-disciplinary collaboration, bridging insights from biology to address engineering challenges. According to the article ”Bioinspiration and Biomimicry: What Can Engineers Learn from Biologists?”¹³, engineers incorporate biological efficiencies into innovative designs, such as using capillary action observed in plants to inspire new approaches in fluid dynamics and material sciences. This synergy not only leads to groundbreaking applications but also enhances the sustainability of engineering solutions, demonstrating how biomimicry underpins the development of technologies that are harmonious with natural systems.

Technical Textiles

The application of biomimicry in textile engineering is revolutionizing the production of high-performance technical textiles. As discussed in the article ”Biomimetics and Technical Textiles: Solving Engineering Problems with the Help of Nature’s Wisdom”¹⁴ , one exemplary innovation is the ’technical plant stem.’ This material, inspired by the structural properties of Dutch rush and giant reed, showcases the potential of natural models in enhancing material strength and efficiency. These plants’ ability to bear significant loads with minimal material is mimicked to create composites used across aerospace, automotive, and other industries. The material’s development led to its patenting and adoption by major companies, highlighting its industry impact. This integration of biomimicry into technical textiles not only meets diverse application demands but also pushes the boundaries of material science towards more sustainable manufacturing practices.

Specific Case Studies

Optimization Algorithms

Biomimicry has proven highly effective in enhancing optimization algorithms, as demonstrated in the article ”Biomimicry of Parasitic Behavior in a Coevolutionary Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm for Global Optimization”¹⁵. This study introduces PSOPB, a novel particle swarm optimization variant that mimics parasitic behaviors to improve diversity and performance. It features two swarms—host and parasite—that coevolve, improving adaptability and optimizing complex problems effectively.

PSOPB outperforms eight traditional PSO variants by incorporating interactions

that simulate parasitic nourishment extraction, host immune responses, and evolutionary adaptations. These mechanisms prevent premature convergence typically seen in PSOs and enhance global search capabilities. Implemented in MATLAB, PSOPB offers advanced computational capabilities, making it superior for tackling a wide range of optimization challenges. Future work will explore extending these biomimetic strategies to other algorithms and enhancing PSOPB with adaptive parameters for broader application.

Structural Performance

The structural performance of materials can be significantly enhanced through biomimicry, as evidenced by the article ”Bioinspirational Understanding of Flexural Performance in Hedgehog Spines”¹⁶. Hedgehog spines demonstrate a unique combination of stiffness and pliability, allowing them to flex under pressure and absorb impacts without breaking. By analyzing the segmented and gradient composition of these spines, researchers have uncovered structural principles that improve flexibility and strength in synthetic materials. These findings provide critical insights into designing materials optimized for structural performance, offering applications in fields requiring impact resistance and adaptability, such as protective gear and medical implants.

Robotic Maneuvers

Biomimicry also plays a pivotal role in advancing robotic systems. The article ”Towards Biomimicry of a Bat-Style Perching Maneuver on Structures: The Manipulation of Inertial Dynamics”¹⁷ explores how the study of bat perching maneuvers can enhance robotic agility and stability. Bats are renowned for their precise and agile perching capabilities, which involve complex manipulations of their body dynamics and wing movements. By understanding and emulating the inertial dynamics used by bats, researchers are developing robots capable of performing complex maneuvers, thereby improving their functionality in various applications, ranging from search and rescue missions to environmental monitoring. This study shows how integrating biomimetic principles can lead to significant advancements in robotic design, particularly in achieving higher maneuverability and stability in challenging environments.

Design Innovation

Innovative design solutions can also be achieved through biomimicry, as illustrated in the article ”Designing Nature-Inspired Swimming Gloves: A Biomimicry Design Spiral Approach”¹⁸. This study employs the biomimicry design spiral—comprising distillation, translation, discovery, emulation, and evaluation—to create swimming gloves inspired by the legs of the crab-eating frog. The crab-eating frog’s legs are optimized for efficient movement through water, providing both enhanced propulsion and minimal resistance. By emulating these biological features, the resulting gloves demonstrate improved swimming performance by enhancing both drag and lift forces. This approach not only boosts the efficiency of swimming but also reduces the swimmer’s energy expenditure. This case study exemplifies how nature-inspired design processes can lead to practical and efficient product innovations, with potential applications extending to competitive sports, recreational activities, and even underwater robotics.

By examining these specific case studies, we gain a deeper understanding of how biomimicry can be applied across diverse domains to achieve significant advancements in optimization algorithms, structural performance, robotic maneuvers, and design innovation. These examples highlight the potential of biomimicry to revolutionize engineering and design by drawing inspiration from nature’s ingenuity.

Comparative Analysis

Effectiveness

Across all fields, biomimetic designs consistently outperform traditional designs, offering superior solutions by leveraging nature’s proven strategies. The flexural performance of materials inspired by hedgehog spines¹⁶, the efficiency of optimization algorithms modeled on parasitic behavior¹⁹, and the stability of robotic systems mimicking bat perching maneuvers¹⁷ all illustrate how biomimicry enhances functionality and innovation in diverse contexts. However, the specific advantages vary: while medical applications benefit from biomimicry’s ability to integrate with biological systems¹², technical textiles and wearable technology leverage its potential for creating durable, high-performance materials¹⁴.

Challenges and Limitations

While biomimicry offers remarkable potential, it presents several challenges that must be addressed. Translating biological concepts into practical designs requires a deep understanding of natural systems and often relies on advanced techniques such as X-ray micro-computed tomography, CAD (Computer-Aided Design), FEA (Finite Element Analysis), and CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) simulations, which are technically demanding and resource-intensive.

Material limitations also pose a significant hurdle, as manufacturing materials may not replicate the efficiency and adaptability of their biological counterparts, impacting the effectiveness of biomimetic applications. Furthermore, scalability and high development costs hinder the transition of promising innovations from laboratory settings to widespread commercial use.

To fully realize the potential of biomimicry, these challenges must be tackled through interdisciplinary collaboration and advancements in technology. Addressing these barriers will enable the continued growth and adoption of sustainable and innovative biomimetic solutions across various fields.

Future Directions

Emerging Trends and Potential Impact

Biomimicry continues to drive advancements across diverse fields, inspiring innovative and sustainable solutions. In robotics, studies of bat-style perching maneuvers guide the design of agile systems for search and rescue. Renewable energy technologies leverage natural processes like photosynthesis and aerodynamics to enhance efficiency and sustainability.

Material science benefits from biomimetic principles, with insights from hedgehog spines informing the development of strong yet flexible materials for protective gear and medical textiles. Computational tools like CAD, CFD simulations, and AI further accelerate biomimetic innovation by enabling precise replication of natural structures.

Biomimicry is poised to transform industries ranging from medicine to architecture. As research and collaboration in this field advance, it will play a crucial role in driving future innovations and sustainable solutions aligned with nature’s time-tested strategies.

Conclusion

Biomimicry has proven to be a transformative approach in engineering and design, enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and functionality across various applications. It has led to significant innovations such as advanced spacesuit gloves for astronauts, cutting-edge tissue engineering techniques, and robust technical textiles inspired by natural fibers.

The application of biomimetic principles helps solve complex problems by improving product resilience and computational efficiencies. This study builds upon these advancements by experimentally evaluating the hydrodynamic performance of nature-inspired hull designs, bridging theoretical insights with practical applications. Future research should focus on expanding the application of biomimicry into new fields like robotics and renewable energy and scaling up successful prototypes for wider adoption. Continued interdisciplinary collaboration is essential to leverage the full potential of biomimicry in developing sustainable and efficient solutions that align with ecological principles.

Methodology

Methodology Guide

Introduction to Methodology

This section outlines the methodology employed to evaluate the performance of nature-inspired hull designs. Guided by biomimicry principles, the approach incorporates the stages of distillation, translation, discovery, emulation, and evaluation, ensuring that each phase of the experiment is informed by biological insights and grounded in rigorous empirical research.

Materials and Equipment

Hull Models: The hulls were constructed using cardboard as the structural framework and wrapped in folder paper to minimize water absorption during testing. This combination was selected for its cost-effectiveness and ease of manipulation, allowing for quick design iterations. The folder paper served as a protective layer, preventing direct exposure of the cardboard to water, which helped maintain the structural integrity of the hulls throughout the trials.

Experimental Environment: Flow conditions were maintained using a fixed water hose, securely positioned to ensure consistent flow direction and rate throughout all trials. The hulls were placed at a uniform distance from the hose for each test, minimizing variability in their response to the water flow.

Equipment List:

• Camera (iPhone 14, Apple Inc., USA): Primarily used for timing the hulls as they travel over a predetermined distance. This smartphone’s camera was chosen for its ease of use and ability to accurately capture time intervals, essential for calculating the velocity of each hull model
• Marked Bucket (Rubbermaid Commercial Brute Round Utility Pail, Rubbermaid, USA): Utilized to measure the volume of water displaced, which is critical for calculating buoyancy forces. The bucket’s clear marking and robust material allow for precise and repeatable measurements.
• Rulers and Measuring Tape (Stanley Tools PowerLock, Stanley Black & Decker, USA): Employed for accurate measurements of hull dimensions and distances during experiments. These tools are known for their durability and precision, ensuring reliable data collection.

Research, Design, and Construction Phases

The research and design efforts commenced with an examination of marine animals noted for their hydrodynamic efficiency, which guided the creation of four specialized hull designs. The baseline flat-bottomed hull provided a control for comparative analysis, while the other designs each aimed to emulate specific aquatic adaptations: a shark skin-inspired hull for reduced drag, a turtle

shell-inspired hull for enhanced stability, and a fish fin-inspired hull for improved maneuverability. These designs were crafted from cardboard and folder paper, materials selected for their buoyancy and ease of manipulation to accurately reflect the biological features intended.

Each model was meticulously constructed to embody the respective biological principles it was based on. The process included precision in cutting and assembling materials to replicate the unique hydrodynamic properties of the inspirations such as the streamlined texture of shark skin and the rigid, segmented design of turtle shells. This careful construction ensured that the models not only visually represented their natural counterparts but were also functionally prepared to demonstrate their intended hydrodynamic benefits during the testing phase.

Experimental Setup

The experiment was conducted in a controlled outdoor pool, which provided a stable and reproducible environment for testing the hull models. We established consistent flow conditions using a water hose, ensuring the water flowed at a consistent rate crucial for accurate testing. Each hull was tested individually, allowed to drift over a predetermined distance in the pool, which was measured accurately with measuring tape.

For precise tracking of each hull’s movement, we used a camera equipped with a timer function to record the time taken to cover the set distance. This setup enabled us to gather accurate data on the velocity and distance traveled by each model, essential for analyzing their hydrodynamic properties. A conceptual diagram of the experimental setup is provided to illustrate the arrangement of equipment and testing environment.

Testing Procedure

The testing procedure was meticulously designed to evaluate both drag and buoyancy forces exerted on the hull models:

Drag Force: The drag on each hull was quantified using fluid dynamics principles based on parameters like fluid density, hull velocity, and drag coefficient. To ensure consistency, the water hose used to create flow was securely fixed in position throughout all trials, maintaining a constant flow rate. Each hull was placed at the same distance from the water source to minimize variability in flow exposure. These parameters were recorded during the experimental runs to ensure accurate calculations, detailed in the subsequent section.

Velocity: Measurements were taken by documenting the time required for each hull to traverse a predefined distance in the pool. This distance was accurately marked, and the time was captured using a camera equipped with timing functionality, allowing for precise calculation of velocity. Each hull was tested three times, and the average was calculated to account for minor variations in performance.

Reynolds Number: Computed using hull dimensions, velocity, and water’s dynamic viscosity to assess the flow regime, integral to understanding the fluid dynamics involved.

Cross-Sectional Area: Measured based on the submerged area of each hull facing the flow, essential for calculating the drag force.

Buoyancy: Buoyancy evaluations adhered to Archimedes’ principle, with each hull being submerged in a marked bucket to measure the volume of water displaced. 

To maintain the structural integrity of the hulls during testing, the cardboard core was wrapped in folder paper, which served as a protective layer. Between trials, the hulls were carefully dried to prevent water absorption, ensuring that material deformation did not impact performance. This method ensured accurate assessment of buoyancy forces for each design, correlating the displaced water volume with the buoyant force exerted.

Equations Used in Analysis

This subsection outlines the key equations used to calculate drag force, Reynolds number, and buoyancy force in the experimental analysis of the biomimetic hull models.

1. Reynolds Number (Re)

(1)  

where:

• represents the Reynolds Number.
• represents fluid density.
• represents flow velocity.
• represents characteristic length.
• represents dynamic viscosity of the fluid.

Understanding whether the flow is laminar or turbulent is essential for predicting how the hull will behave in different water conditions.

2. Drag Force

Drag force is the resistance experienced by the hull as it moves through the water. It is calculated using the drag equation:

(2)  

where:

• represents drag force.
• represents drag coefficient.
• represents fluid density.
• represents the velocity of an object relative to the fluid.
• represents the cross-sectional area of the object perpendicular to the flow.

The drag coefficient () is often determined empirically or obtained from literature based on similar flow conditions. Calculating the drag force is critical for optimizing hull design to reduce resistance and improve efficiency in water.

3. Buoyancy Force

Buoyancy force is the upward force exerted by the displaced water, calculated using Archimedes’ principle:

(3)  

where:

• represents buoyancy force.
• represents density of the fluid.
• represents acceleration due to gravity.
• represents volume displacement.

Properly assessing buoyancy helps ensure that the hull maintains stability and adequate floatation under various loading conditions.

Discussion and Results

Introduction to the Section

This section presents the findings from the experiment designed to compare the drag forces of four biomimicry-inspired hull designs: Flat-Bottom Hull, Shark Skin-Inspired Hull, Turtle Shell-Inspired Hull, and Fish Fin-Inspired Hull. The primary goal is to determine how different natural inspirations influence hull performance in water, with a focus on key metrics such as drag force, Reynolds number, cross-sectional area, and buoyancy forces. These metrics were used to evaluate the hydrodynamic efficiency of each design, offering insights into the practical application of biomimicry principles.

Presentation of Results

The results are organized into tables and figures to facilitate clear comparison across the different hull designs.

Tables and Figures

As shown in Table 1, the Shark Skin-Inspired and Fish Fin-Inspired hulls demonstrated significantly lower drag forces compared to the Flat-Bottom and Turtle Shell-Inspired hulls. This suggests that biomimicry principles, when effectively applied, can lead to improved hydrodynamic performance.

Hull Design	Reynolds Number	Drag Force (N)	Drag Coefficient	Cross-Sectional Area (m2)	Buoyancy Force (N)	Velocity in Water (m/s)
Flat-Bottom Hull	207,164	6.28  10−2	0.3	2.25  10−4	0.941	0.137
Shark Skin-Inspired Hull	310,746	0.280	0.3	9.405  10−4	7.380	0.093
Turtle Shell-Inspired Hull	244,830	1.294	0.3	4.400  10−3	5.566	0.101
Fish Fin-Inspired Hull	301,329	0.144	0.3	4.800 10−4	1.877	0.086

Hull Design Models

Photographs and sketches of the four hull designs tested in the experiment: (a) Flat-Bottom Hull, (b) Shark Skin-Inspired Hull, (c) Turtle Shell-Inspired Hull, and (d) Fish Fin-Inspired Hull. These images provide a visual reference for the models whose performance metrics are detailed in Table 1.

Graphs and Charts

Graphs comparing key hydrodynamic metrics across different hull designs are provided to facilitate a clear understanding of performance variations. Figure 7 presents the velocities achieved by each hull, and Figure 8 shows the drag forces across the hull designs. Figure 9 displays the buoyancy forces for each design. Figure 10 shows the Reynolds numbers, which help indicate the flow dynamics around the hulls, and Figure 11 illustrates the cross-sectional areas of each design. These graphs make it easier to discern patterns and trends that will be analyzed in subsequent sections.

Analysis and Interpretation of Results

Comparison of Hull Designs

Drag Force

The Shark Skin-Inspired Hull and Fish Fin-Inspired Hull exhibited significantly lower drag forces compared to the Flat-Bottom Hull and Turtle Shell-Inspired Hull, as shown in Table 1. The Shark Skin-Inspired Hull’s micro-ridge design, mimicking the drag-reducing properties of shark skin, effectively reduced resistance. On the other hand, the Turtle Shell-Inspired Hull experienced the highest drag force, indicating that its design, while potentially advantageous in terms of stability, created more resistance when moving through water.

Buoyancy Force

The Shark Skin-Inspired Hull also showed the highest buoyancy force, followed by the Turtle Shell-Inspired Hull, with the Flat-Bottom Hull having the lowest. High buoyancy forces, as seen in the Shark Skin-Inspired and Turtle Shell-Inspired hulls, suggest these designs displaced a significant volume of water, enhancing their stability. However, the higher drag observed in the Turtle Shell-Inspired Hull indicates that buoyancy alone does not guarantee optimal performance.

Best Performing Design

The Fish Fin-Inspired Hull achieved the best balance between drag reduction, buoyancy, and velocity. It exhibited relatively low drag force while maintaining moderate buoyancy and velocity, suggesting better speed and stability. In contrast, the Flat-Bottom Hull, despite its high velocity, may be less stable due to its lower buoyancy force, making it less suitable for scenarios where stability is crucial.

Impact of Buoyancy

Stability and Performance

Hulls with higher buoyancy forces, such as the Shark Skin-Inspired and Turtle Shell-Inspired designs, are likely to exhibit greater stability due to their ability to displace more water. This relationship between buoyancy and stability is supported by findings from McLean & Hinrichs (1998), who noted that increased buoyancy reduces form drag, enhancing performance by lowering the resistance

encountered through water²⁰. However, the higher drag force observed in the Turtle Shell-Inspired Hull illustrates a significant trade-off; while buoyancy contributes positively to stability, it can also increase the hydrodynamic resistance, especially when not complemented by streamlined design features. This increase in drag, particularly noted in designs with larger frontal areas, is discussed by Dickson and Pierce (2019), who explain how morphological adaptations impact performance by altering the drag coefficient²¹. Their findings confirm that while adaptations may confer stability advantages, they can simultaneously enhance resistance, thereby negatively impacting overall hydrodynamic performance.

Buoyancy vs. Drag Force

The interaction between buoyancy and drag critically influences the hydrodynamic efficiency of hull designs. High buoyancy enhances stability by displacing more water, thereby supporting the hull against gravitational forces. However, as buoyancy increases, it can also raise the underwater profile, potentially increasing drag unless the hull design is optimized for streamlining. The Shark Skin-Inspired Hull exemplifies how biomimetic design can address this challenge. By mimicking the micro-ridge surface of shark skin, this hull reduces turbulent drag, as highlighted by Lauder et al. (2014)²². Their findings show that such surface modifications can significantly improve hydrodynamic efficiency by disrupting water flow and reducing resistance. The Fish Fin-Inspired Hull similarly achieves an effective balance, combining moderate buoyancy with low drag and sufficient velocity to deliver superior overall performance.

The combined effects of buoyancy and drag on aquatic efficiency have been well-documented in related studies. Benjanuvatra et al. (2001) highlighted that reductions in hydrodynamic resistance, including form drag, significantly enhance performance²³. Their research emphasizes that increased buoyancy reduces form drag

by minimizing the cross-sectional area exposed to water flow, improving overall efficiency. These findings align with the observed performance of both the Shark Skin-Inspired and Fish Fin-Inspired hulls, where streamlined design elements effectively manage buoyancy and drag to optimize speed and stability.

Unexpected Findings

Turtle Shell-Inspired Hull’s High Drag

Contrary to expectations, the Turtle Shell-Inspired Hull exhibited a higher drag force than anticipated, as depicted in the cross-sectional area comparisons shown in Table 1. This increase in drag can be attributed primarily to its large frontal area, which, while potentially increasing stability, also significantly enhances hydrodynamic resistance. This phenomenon aligns with findings by Godoy-Diana and Thiria (2018), who noted that the drag coefficient is inversely proportional to the frontal area²⁴. According to their research, a larger frontal area increases drag, thus reducing hydrodynamic efficiency. This insight is critical in understanding that while the rounded shape of the Turtle Shell-Inspired Hull may be generally favorable for smooth water flow, its larger cross-sectional area could introduce turbulence, leading to higher drag. Such findings underscore the complex trade-offs involved in hull design, where the increase in one performance aspect can lead to compromises in another.

Low Buoyancy of Flat-Bottom Hull

The Flat-Bottom Hull displayed surprisingly low buoyancy force, which can be primarily attributed to its smaller displacement volume and less efficient interaction with water compared to other biomimetic designs. Being the smallest of the model boats, the Flat-Bottom Hull displaces less water, which directly results in reduced buoyancy. This physical characteristic of having a lower displacement volume aligns with principles noted by McLean & Hinrichs (1998), who discussed how buoyancy is crucial in reducing the energy needed to maintain speed by reducing form drag²⁰. However, the hull’s reduced buoyancy likely contributed to its higher velocity, illustrating a fundamental trade-off in naval architecture: less resistance due to lower water displacement can enhance speed but at the cost of stability.

This dynamic highlights the challenge in designing hulls that need to balance speed with the ability to remain stable under various conditions.

Discussion of Errors and Limitations

Potential Sources of Error

Measurement Tools

The accuracy of the measurements may have been limited by the quality of the tools available. The absence of force probes meant that drag and buoyancy forces were calculated indirectly, potentially introducing errors. Additionally, the lack of high-quality velocity-detecting cameras might have led to imprecise measurements of the hulls’ velocities in water.

Hull Fabrication

The hulls were constructed using cardboard as the structural framework and wrapped in folder paper to minimize water absorption. While these materials were chosen for accessibility and cost-effectiveness, they may lack the precision and durability of advanced materials like those produced by 3D printing. Although steps were taken to maintain the structural integrity of the hulls, such as drying them between trials, minor inconsistencies in material behavior could have influenced the results.

Environmental Control

The experimental setup relied on a water hose to create consistent flow conditions. While the hose was fixed in place to maintain uniformity, the inability to precisely control flow rates or turbulence as would be possible in a lab-based environment introduces a potential source of variability. Despite these challenges, care was taken to ensure consistent flow direction and hull placement across trials.

Impact on Results

Measurement Inaccuracies

The errors in measurement tools and techniques likely contributed to higher variance in the recorded data. For example, the drag and buoyancy forces may not have been as precise as desired, leading to slight deviations from expected results. The potential inaccuracies in hull construction might have affected the hydrodynamic properties of each design, skewing the comparative analysis.

Environmental Factors

The limitations in environmental control, such as inconsistent water flow, could have introduced additional variables that impacted the reliability of the results. These factors, combined with less accurate measurement tools, likely resulted in higher variability in the data.

Suggestions for Improvement

Improved Measurement Tools

Future experiments would benefit from using more advanced tools, such as force probes for direct measurement of drag and buoyancy forces, and high-precision cameras for accurate velocity detection. This would reduce the margin of error and provide more reliable data.

3D Printing

Utilizing 3D printing technology to fabricate the hull designs would enhance the precision and consistency of the models. This would ensure that each hull adheres closely to its intended design, improving the validity of the comparisons.

Lab-Based Environment

Conducting the experiment in a controlled lab environment would allow for better regulation of variables such as water flow and temperature. Access to lab-based tools would also enable more accurate and consistent measurements, leading to more reliable results.

Replicating the Experiment

Increasing the number of trials or replicating the experiment with different sets of tools and materials could help identify and mitigate any anomalies, providing a more robust dataset for analysis.

Conclusion

This research highlights the potential of biomimicry as a powerful tool in engineering, emphasizing the innovative application of nature-inspired strategies. By comparing the drag and buoyancy forces of biomimicry-inspired hull designs—modeled after fish fins, shark skin, and turtle shells—the study demonstrated the practical benefits of integrating biological principles into design. The Fish Fin-Inspired Hull achieved the best balance between drag

reduction and buoyancy, optimizing stability and speed. The Shark Skin-Inspired Hull effectively reduced drag but exhibited lower velocity due to increased buoyancy. In contrast, the Turtle Shell-Inspired Hull, despite its high buoyancy, displayed unexpectedly high drag, requiring further refinement for improved hydrodynamic efficiency.

The methodology incorporated accessible materials and practical techniques to derive meaningful insights, with conceptual diagrams and data analysis bridging limitations in fabrication and measurement precision. These findings emphasize the importance of adopting advanced tools, such as 3D printing and precise measurement technologies, in future research. By expanding biomimicry’s scope through computational innovations and interdisciplinary approaches, this study highlights its immense potential to revolutionize engineering design and sustainability.

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