BIOMIMICRY

In this study, we were asked to analyze natural mechanisms in order to gain a deeper understanding of dynamic function. I chose to study the common seahorse, whose tail provided a profound model of correlated strength and flexibility. While curling easily in the ventral direction, the seahorse’s tail is limited strictly to torsion in order to achieve lateral motion. Thus, in my exploration of a physical analogue, I ultimately produced a mechanism that mimics this essential “locking” quality in the extended position, but twists when curled.