Bionics

The term “bionic” was coined by Jack E. Steele in August 1958. Ever since then, the application of biology in engineering has become a point of interest. Many TV shows and sci-fi novels have been centered around the idea of bionic humans that can save the world. Over the years, many people have had visions for the future of bionics. Some want to use bionics to turn disabilities into the opportunity for superpowers, while others want to make a fully bionic human. The main goal of bionics has always been to help overcome disabilities and injuries.

Over the years, there has been significant progress in bionics. In 1993, Robert was given the first bionic hand. Created by 5 bio-engineers, the bionic arm contained circuitry, tiny gears, pulleys, motors, and microchips, all covered by a realistic artificial skin. It had the same capabilities as a human arm: it could revolve fully at the shoulder, bend at the elbow, and turn at the wrist. Even more than that, the fingers had the ability to grip objects. In order to control his prosthetic limb, Robert had to wear a cap that contained micro-sensors that detected electrical impulses in the brain that were meant for the missing limb and transferred that to the prothetic one. In 2004, the design of a respirocyte was finished. A respirocyte acts as an artificial red blood cell and has increased capabilities, such as being able to deliver 236 times more oxygen, compared to a non-artificial red blood cell. In 2019, scientists in Utah built the first self-powered bionic legs. The mechanisms inside the knee and ankle allows the amputee to walk with a better balance, vigor, and strength. Many more bionic advancements are in progress and are aimed at helping people overcome injuries.

Biomimicry or biomimetics are preferred in the technology world when referring to items that imitate biological structures. Biomimicry has been used to modify the hulls of ships to make them resemble the thick skin of dolphins. By modifying technology to resemble natural characteristics, engineers are able to create technology that is more effective and long-lasting. The Eastgate Building in Harare Zimbabwe has an internal climate control system based off of termite mounds. By observing natural characteristics, there have been many breakthroughs in the field of technology.

By incorporating biology in technology, many advancements have been made. Bionics and biomimicry have helped make lives much more easier. From expanding life spans to modifying technology to make it last longer, bionics and biomimicry have helped hundreds of people and will continue to do so. While the future of bionics may be uncertain, one thing is for sure: the field of bionics will continue to exist and help people.

Sources:

• https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/news/60at60/2015/8/1993-first-bionic-arm-392887

• https://biomimicry.org/biomimicry-examples/

• https://foresight.org/Nanomedicine/Gallery/Species/Respirocytes.php