A concept vehicle developed by German engineers is based on the bionic characteristics of the turtle's carapace, the carapace that provides a comprehensive protective shell, and is an integral part of the animal's skeletal structure
By: Shimon Bogan
Da Vinci is known as someone who deeply observed nature and the human body, and merged basic biological and engineering knowledge in a systematic way. It seems that the researchers, developers and engineers at the German company EDAG dream of being Leonardo - Da Vinci, or at least the Ninja Turtle.
They gave adequate expression to this ambition at the Geneva Motor Show 2014, by revealing the vision for the development and production of a future vehicle, which excels in natural design and optimal safety. The vehicle model - EDAG GENESIS - is based on the bionic characteristics of the turtle shell, the shell that provides a comprehensive protective shell, and is an integral part of the animal's skeletal structure. It is important to remember in this context that fossilized remains of ancient turtles, similar to the ones we know today, were dated to geological periods of 65 million years ago.
The organic structure is made from lightweight materials, with the extraordinary design and revolutionary manufacturing method giving it the best strength, rigidity and durability. The bold ambition of the developers is to build a skeleton and chassis in a way that most closely simulates the construction of the turtle's shell, in a single step process and as one piece!
The inspiration from nature does not end with the design of a vehicle with a structure as strong and light as the turtle's shell, but also in the process of its creation. Biomimetic designs and production processes outline a technological horizon of inexhaustible freedoms for developers, for engineers and for creators.
The construction mechanisms in nature produce optimal structures for the environmental and living conditions, in a sequence of functional and evolutionary development. Such a futuristic world cannot rely on existing and accepted processes, methods and tools. Adoption of building principles inspired by nature can only be done through Additive Manufacturing technologies. In complete contrast to subtractive production processes, which were developed by humans and have been used by humanity since the dawn of its creation, additive production is freed from dependence on tools, is low in resources and friendly to the environment and life.
To expand knowledge, it is recommended to access and read any website that deals with 3D printing (XNUMXD Printing, in Israel and abroad.
