30 November 2023 to 1 December 2023
University of Stavanger
Europe/Oslo timezone

Bio-Inspired Design Trends for Sustainable Energy Structures

Not scheduled
20m
KE E-102 (University of Stavanger)

KE E-102

University of Stavanger

Speakers

Mr Genetu Amare (AASTU)Dr Yohannes Regassa (Addis Ababa Science and Technology University)Mr Tamana Dabasa (Addis Ababa Science and Technology University)Prof. Hirpa Lemu (University of Stavanger)

Description

Researchers and engineers are constantly looking to nature for design inspiration as they work to create novel and effective energy conversion structures. Developing durable and resilient materials to survive extreme weather conditions and environmental issues have been possible by using inspiration from the Nenuphar's durability in adverse aquatic environments and the sunflower's adaptation to vary climatic situations. The analysis of new design ideas in renewable energy systems in this study was inspired by the Nenuphar (Water Lily) and the Sunflower. The Nenuphar's exceptional capacity to float and large leaf surface make it a model for enhanced water-based energy conversion systems. Future novel concepts like floating solar farms and wave energy collecting platforms can be inspired by the Nenuphar's buoyancy and ability to efficiently use sunlight. Solar panel integration with water features can boost overall energy output while preserving precious land resources. The Sunflower, known for its phototropism and effective sun-tracking mechanism, offers suggestions for improving solar energy harvesting. Advanced heliotropic solar panels have demonstrated promising results in boosting energy production by mimicking the sunflower's ability to follow the trajectory of the Sun. These designs maximize energy outputs and boost overall system efficiency by maximizing solar exposure. This study provides an overview of these bio-inspired concepts that can lead to the development of sustainable and efficient energy solutions, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future. Furthermore, bio-inspired design can be integrated into smart technologies and artificial intelligence to more optimize energy conversion structures.

Conference Topic Areas Track8: Design Optimization, Additive Manufacturing Technologies & Applications

Primary author

Dr Yohannes Regassa (Addis Ababa Science and Technology University)

Co-authors

Mr Tamana Dabasa (Addis Ababa Science and Technology University) Prof. Hirpa Lemu (University of Stavanger)

Presentation materials

Peer reviewing

Paper