The network
The primary objective of BIOKON is to make biomimetics useful as a source of ideas and innovation for technology, business and society. The non-profit research community includes more than 80 universities, research institutions, companies and individuals working in the field of biomimetics throughout Germany. As an information and education platform, BIOKON concentrates and links the activities and expertise of important biomimetics working groups so that biological problem-solving and optimisation strategies are developed into new products and technologies in a goal-oriented manner.
Main activities
BIOKON is the comprehensive contact for queries on bionics and biomimetics from business and industry, teaching professionals, or the media.
We offer the following services:
- a consulting service on technical implementations of biological solutions
- a pool of experts and cooperation partners for business and industry
- acquisition of external funding for innovative R&D projects
- workshops and exhibition stands at science and industrial fairs
- a database of biological models for technical implementations
- teaching modules for secondary and tertiary education
- university courses and continued learning
- information material for the media and the general public
The technological focus
Biomimetics taps nature's huge reservoir of structures, process optimisations
and functional solutions in order to find technical applications of natural
principles. The optimisation of resource and energy efficiency that took place
in the evolution of all biological systems is of special interest. It offers
great potential for more sustainability in the economy.
An essential part of
the innovative power of biomimetics is founded on the interaction between basic
research in biology and the growing technical capabilities of nanotechnology,
microsystems technologies, optoelectronics, material sciences and processing
technologies. In general, it is a long way from the biologically inspired idea
to a marketable product. One decisive step on this way is the creation of
convincing technical prototypes and demonstration products derived from nature's
energy- and resource-efficient examples. To facilitate access to information and
promote technical exchange, BIOKON has set up committees focusing on particular
topics in biomimetics.
Workgroups of BIOKON
- Architecture and design
- Lightweight structures and smart materials
- Structures and functions of surfaces and interfaces
- Fluid dynamics, motion systems
- Robotics and biomechatronics
- Sensor technology and data processing and communication
- Optimisation algorithms.
Services
- combining resources and competencies
- initiating, executing and accompanying international research, development
and implementation projects
- consulting and lobbying for science, business and politics
- promoting education and training measures
- organising events (conferences, workshops) and exhibitions for the
scientific community and the general public
- public relations.
