Of the many biomimetic systems found in buildings today, two that I find particularly interesting are systems that can emulate how our pupils react to light and those that can replicate our body’s ability to call upon stored energy when needed.
When our pupils are exposed to light they constrict, thereby limiting the amount of light that can pass through the eye to avoid over-exposure. Conversely, when they’re in a dimmer setting (or darkness) they dilate, allowing more light to pass through to ensure we can see. In building systems, this process is known as “daylight harvesting”, and is a sustainable means of limiting energy consumption by building occupants. When a building using daylight harvesting is exposed to increased levels of natural light, it automatically dims the interior lights to achieve a harmonious balance. Likewise, as the natural light wanes, the interior lights are more heavily relied upon to provide light for the occupants.
Daylight Harvesting sensor
Similarly, there are many products on the market that reduce our energy consumption by replicating how our body utilizes energy. Our bodies don’t immediately consume all of the energy we bring in via food and drink. Instead, they store energy in our tissues and organs for later use, with the ability to activate it when called upon (e.g., for exercise or physical exertion). Buildings often replicate this via implementation of motion-detecting systems and zones. By understanding when/where occupants are in specific zones, the sensors tell buildings when to use energy in those areas, thereby limiting waste by reducing the energy supplied to unoccupied areas. This is most commonly seen in lights, but can also be applied to HVAC systems and controls.
Residential HVAC Zoning example