Velcro is probably the world’s most famous example of biomimicry. The inventor George de Mestral, a Swiss engineer, was casually walking his dog in a nearby park when he suddenly caught on to a eureka moment. Surely there would be a way to imitate the persistent burrs which hooked and stuck onto clothes and animal furs to create a clothes fastener that would rival the zip. This spurred eight years of trialling and improvement until finally, there was a breakthrough in an efficient and economical model to make what is now known as an amalgamation of the two French words – velour and crochet – Velcro.

The gecko is one example of biology that inspired biomimicry. Gecko © by HarshLight

A design for ‘gecko tape’ originating from the gecko lizard is currently under development as another outcome of biomimicry. Gecko lizards have the fascinating ability to be able to cling onto vertical walls, even glass. Scientists have been working on replicating the nanoscopic hairs, that can be seen on the Gecko’s feet only through a microscope, which provide the van der Waals force, keeping the Gecko attracted onto surfaces at all times. There are still a few problems facing those working on gecko tape, for example the tape is not reusable. Nevertheless years of testing and progress are almost always necessary before a new product can make it to the global market – just as Velcro did.

‘The Lotus Effect’, or ‘superhydrophobicity’ as its technical term, has been growing in popularity recently and has led to a number of innovations in technology. Fundamentally, the effect involves copying the water-repelling properties of the Lotus flower. After studying the surface of lotus leaves more closely with an electron microscope Scientists have found that millions of tiny rough bumps on the surface counter-intuitively repel the droplets of water. This causes the plant to remain clean as water washes straight off it.

These examples show how beneficial nature can be in providing the spark for solutions to the current pressing problems. Biomimicry really is the best way to fully utilise the power of Mother Nature and the incredible creations she has gifted us.

Now you may be wondering why on earth I am telling you this. Well wouldn’t it be great to implement the structures that Mother Nature has perfected over millions of years for the benefit of the human race? That’s essentially what biomimicry is all about. Mimicking biology (or nature). Other terms that are synonymous with biomimicry include bio-inspiration, biomimetics and biognosis. Some people prefer to use the term bio-inspiration as we should look to take inspiration from biological systems rather than copy them outright. After all we would never be able to make exact copies because it is near impossible to reproduce precisely the same materials and systems that we see in nature.

Nature Reading © by jurvetson

It may come as a surprise how long we humans have actually been looking to nature to help us solve our problems. For example for centuries people have been trying to soar like birds; only relatively recently have we achieved any success in the field of aeronautics which came about from trying to imitate the flight of birds.

A very popular and widespread product of biomimicry (although the science of biomimicry didn’t even exist at the time of discovery) is Velcro. Velcro is used for clothes fastenings but the idea actually stemmed from the annoying burrs that get caught on to trousers and animal fur very persistently. Velcro consists of one side of plastics hooks which fasten onto an entanglement of loose fibers. This originated from when George de Mestral was walking his dog in Switzerland and caught on to the concept of a clothes fastener that mimicked the relentless sticking of the burrs. Although the process of creating lots of hooks very close to each other and small in size took a while to become economically viable it was well worth the wait of eight years. Often we find it takes several years to go from concept to a fully functioning design that is also profitable but once that stage is reached everyone can benefit.

In essence biomimicry is, “the transfer of ideas from biology to technology”, as described by Otto Schmitt. Biomimetics is an excellent way to invent or create new products because of the innate advantages found in natural structures. These include sustainability; performing well in their task; saving energy and material costs and almost eliminating waste.

This kind of currency can be implemented in two different ways: Mutual Credit or Fiat Currency.

Mutual credit system is created when two parties trade with each other, simultaneously creating a debit for the one and a credit for the other.

A Fiat currency system is where currency is both created is dispensed by one, designated authority. This is much like normal, national currencies.

Complementary Currency has many goals, but at its heart are that of both job creation and the sustainable development of communities. For this to work, the wealth, thus the currency, must stay within the community.

Complementary Community Currency can help to build up a strong economic environment within the community, helping to alleviate poverty. Another benefit if complementary currency is that it supports the cultures of different communities.

Could your community benefit from a complementary currency? Photo © by bestbib&tucker

Within communities, the environmental impact can become quite large. Members of the community will start gardening as they see the needs for fresh produce and herbs. As this increases, communities become self sustainable.

Furthermore the reduced use of pollutants is also notable. Things such as transportation are cut seeing as it is not needed. The product is already where it needs to be and this also reduces the cost of the products.

This causes a chain reaction. A reduction in the burning of fossil fuels will in the long run reduce the carbon footprint of the community.

Alternative resources for electricity is also investigated within such communities as not only a way for more cost-effective sources of energy, but as a way to become self sufficient.

In poverty stricken communities, complementary currency is a very viable option that can help alleviate the economic pressure they are under. By becoming self sufficient, these communities are starting to realize that their saving grace is within their reach.

Not only is the development within communities sustainable, but the entire community benefits from this development. Benefits are not only financial, but social and environmental as well.

By using what is in their reach, communities are changing the way they operate.

Communities are strong and when survival kicks in, relying on sustainable development becomes there only option. They realize that by looking after one another they can benefit greatly.

The electric bike, or E-bike is used for practical transportation as much as its environmental benefit. Image: US Misson Geneva/flickr

Electric bicycles have a rechargeable battery or power pack they can be used in the same way as normal bicycles in the lanes. An ‘electrically assisted pedal cycle’ does not need to be registered to the road or carry insurance as long as it has pedals, the motor is electric (and not run on petrol) and weighs under 40 kg.

They provide the balance between draining your energy – making you sweat your way to your desired destination or exhausting the energy from earth’s resources – using up fossil fuel reserves. Safer more controlled road experience, without the hum or roar of a moped or motorbike you can not only enjoy the quiet but have the ability/option to listen out for danger signals. You can travel longer distances before your personal battery runs down, you can use the bike when its battery runs out and you can accelerate quicker away from traffic lights for example. And when or if the battery runs out at the bottom of a hill you have some extra weight from the dead motor to haul up.

There are age restrictions in some places, riders have to be older than 14 years of age.

This upgrade on the traditional push pedal bicycle makes cycling to work a viable option. Lycra shorts are a no-no on any occasion, let alone the daily commute. Electric bikes make for less sweat and therefore the opportunity for more clothes. The expense will be repaid within a month or two if not weeks. The intended use is an important element to consider to help you chose the right bike for you. Mountain, road, cruiser or hybrid think about the frame, the weight and the battery.

If you aren’t into the market for buying a new bike, but want to convert your favorite bike to an electric bike you can do that to with a conversion kit. This video demonstrates what a mountain bike would look like and ride like after being converted to electric.

Once you have your shiny new bicycle there are a number of maintenance issues to be aware of. Fortunately the motor looks after itself, just keeping it dry – or drying it after it’s been in the rain – and away from the sun will do the trick. Ensuring the tyre pressures are correct and there’s no dirt in the gears will help with the battery performance. Watching the battery use and charging when required (portable and solar panel chargers available). The rest is regular bike maintenance, brake cords and pads. I certainly want to ride an electric bicycle, don’t you?

Ithaca Hours, a local alternative currency in Ithaca, NY. Image: imtfi/flickr

The Ithaca HOUR is a local currency used in Ithaca, New York and is the oldest and largest local currency system in the United States that is still in operation.  The basic premise of the Ithaca HOURS is that one Ithaca HOUR is valued at $10 US dollars, which is the average wage of the region, and is used to trade for one hour’s work of another.

The idea is that one person’s time is as valuable as anyone else’s, so an HOUR can be exchanged for an hour’s work, whether that work is farm labor or dentistry. There’s nothing to prevent professionals from charging several HOURS per hour, of course, and a babysitter might accept a quarter-HOUR per hour. But HOURS are a leveling force, raising the minimum wage, allowing people to buy things they couldn’t afford before, and stimulating everyone’s business.

The use of local currencies, such as the Ithaca HOURS, keeps services and payments local.  Local businesses are more likely to accept the HOURS as compared to large big-box chain stores and restaurants.  Users of the HOURS patronize more local businesses and stimulate the local economy and keep local financial resources within the local area.

More than 1,200 individuals and businesses in Ithaca, New York, will accept the HOURS and include services such as bookkeeping, roofing, tax preparation, bowling, legal services, business consulting, cake decorating, camera repair, electrician services, car repair, movie theater tickets, childcare, and a variety of food from local restaurants.  Movie theaters, locally owned grocery stores, farmers markets, and quite a few landlords also accept HOURS.  In fact, a local electronics store has computers in the window priced at 50, 68, and 90 HOURS.

Although many individuals and business accept HOURS for the full price of an item or service, the majority like to combine the HOURS with US dollars so they can still pay their overhead and bills (such as utilities) to companies that do not accept HOURS as legal tender.

As with any currency system, protection against counterfeits is essential to ensuring inflation does not undervalue the worth of the HOUR.  The Ithaca HOURS use special handmade paper and two of the notes use thermal ink which disappears briefly when touched or photocopied.  In addition, the Tompkins Count District Attorney has said that counterfeiting HOURS would be forgery of a financial instrument, punishable by up to 7 years in jail.

The Echo Park Time Bank hosts a meet and greet for potential members at a children's school garden in Los Angles.

The Echo Park Time Bank (EPTB) located in the Echo Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, California was started in March of 2008 and is a volunteer run project. The idea spawned from a Permaculture course, taught locally by designer and educator Larry Santoyo. Co-founder, Autumn Rooney, once skeptical about the practicality of a local time bank, is now spearheading the organization with growing success and notoriety. ‘If I can do it, anybody can,’ she stated modestly at a guest speaker at Santoyo’s subsequent Permaculture workshop. When membership was measured in March of 2011, it reportedly had a total of 250 members.

The EPTB aims “to serve as a bridge between people from different economic, social and ethnic backgrounds by providing the opportunity for interaction through the exchange of services.”

Simply put, the EPTB acts as a facilitator between two parties exchanging goods and services. For every hour you help another member, you earn Time Credit. This Time Credit can then be exchanged for goods and service, be it a haircut or a ride somewhere.

It is what is called a ‘pay it forward’ system and it strives to economically strengthen communities and connect people with needs to other people that can provide in these needs.

This initiative has five core values: Assets, Redefining Work, Reciprocity, Social Networks and Respect.

When it comes to Assets, the EPTB believes that all human being are assets.  Redefining Work states that some services are beyond price. A little help is more valuable than money. Reciprocity states that helping is a two-way street. It believes that a network is much stronger than just one person.

Social networks refers to that fact that people need each other and can trade goods and services to enrich lives. A time bank facilitates local trade, citizenship and community. The stronger the social network, the stronger the community. Finally Respect refers to the fact that every single human being matters. It has a lot to do with freedom, be it of speech or religion.

The EPTB strives to create better, more aware consumers and help people save in terms of money. It is in essence a something for something system and money is replaced by goods and services.

This organisation uses an internet-based system. There you can find services and goods as well as list the services and goods you can offer. Someone will then ‘buy’ and the deal will finalize.

These services include just about everything imaginable. From interior design and dog-walking to Holistic therapies and Computer classes or help you are sure to find something you need.

The services offered are dependent on the people’s skills that join the organization. People can exchange their time to fill in their own needs or pick up some new skills. Languages, arts and crafts, tax help, editing, translation, child care, garden work, errands, tailoring, tutoring, website design, minor home repairs as well as event planning are just some of the services offered. There are so many to choose from and, by joining the EPTB, or another Time Bank in your area, you will have all of these resources at your fingertips and find yourself in a new community.

There’s no Time Bank where you live? Start your own!

]]> http://www.theinnovationdiaries.com/2707/echo-park-time-bank/feed/ 0 http://www.theinnovationdiaries.com/2562/an-electric-tankless-water-heater-that-will-serve-your-home-well/ http://www.theinnovationdiaries.com/2562/an-electric-tankless-water-heater-that-will-serve-your-home-well/#comments Thu, 15 Sep 2011 01:43:12 +0000 Annabel Schoeman http://www.theinnovationdiaries.com/?p=2562

Going green? Think about using an electric tankless water heater to save on energy and bills.

With the cost of energy steadily rising every day, we tend to invest in electric appliances that are cost efficient.

These are usually products that comply with Energy Star requirements. Using these types of products, we are assured that costs will be kept down. While using less energy, the impact we have on the environment, is also drastically reduced.

There are all sorts of energy and cost effective products out there and of one of these include the electric, tankless water heater.

An electric, tankless water heater works in such a way that water is only heated as it is needed and used. It is an ‘on demand’ water heating system and thus does not require a water storage tank.

As you can imagine, it is very energy sufficient and thus also cost efficient. Water is not heated and stored, but only heated as needed and energy in keeping water warm for long periods of time is not used.

Because water is only heated when it is used, warm water will never run out. So, there is no more waiting an hour after your hubby took his twenty minute long shower before you can pour yourself a relaxing, warm bath.

With this electric, tankless water heater, users are able to set a temperature they desire. This allows the user to set and control the heat of water used. This on demand warm water system reduces the heating costs of households and reduces the risk of scalding.

The Stiebel Eltron Tempra and Tempra Plus Series of tankless water heaters promises a long service life as well as optimum efficiency during the system’s lifespan.

It saves on space, as the models are compact and smaller in design. Tankless water heaters are also less likely to rupture or leak.

This series of tankless water heaters are able to produce between six to seven gallons of warm water per minute. This however does depend on the temperature you select and the model as well.

Furthermore the Stiebel Eltron Tempra and Tempra Plus Series of tankless water heaters can, in comparison to other, more conventional water heaters, save you between 30% and 50% in energy costs.

This reduced use of energy does not only carry the benefits of cost efficiency, but will reduce the carbon footprint your household leaves behind.

Because of a wide range of products and models available today, you are sure to find a tankless water heater suitable for you and your home’s needs.

Image: JakoJelloma/flickr

Archimedes of Syracuse was an ancient Greek mathematician, physicist, engineer, invetor, and astronomer.  He is typically regarded as one of the leading scientists in classical antiquity.  He is most known for his explanation of the principle of the lever and for the first theoretical calculation of the value of pi (π).

One of the most valuable inventions credited with designing is the Archimedes Screw Pump which is a device used to transport water from a low area to a higher elevation.   The design consists of a screw inside a hollow pipe and is turned by a windmill or by manual labor.  As the bottom end of the tube turns, it scoops up a volume of water which will slide up in the spiral tube as the shaft is turned, until it finally pours out from the top of the tube.

The Archimedes screw is basically a positive-displacement pump.  One end of the pump is placed in a low-lying liquid source and then tilted up into a discharge tank or other suitable location. To move the liquid upward, the screw would be rotated.  As the screw moves, it scoops up a small amount of water into the first pocket.  On the next turn of the screw, the first pocket of water moves to the second pocket, and a new scoop of water enters the first pocket. This motion continues until finally the first scoop of water comes out at the other end.

The screw was mostly used for draining water out of mines or other areas of low lying water and to transport water from low-lying areas up to irrigation ditches. The design is so effective that it is still being used in many modern-day applications.  The design is used to lift wastewater in treatment plants, to lift granulated solids such as coal and grain, to irrigate agricultural fields without electrical pumps, and even to lift water at the Shipwreck Rapids water ride at Sea World in San Diego, California.

More recently, the Archimedes’ Screws are being used in England to generate electricity, in addition to pumping water when needed.  Competitors for the 2012 London Olympic Games are training on a canoe course in which the pumps are now being used as both pumps and generators on an energy neutral course.

This invention is an example of a sustainable machine that has proven its worth over the test of time.  It uses only minimal amounts of energy from a renewable source and can continually operate, and now can be modified to produce electricity.

A moveable or portable chicken coop is a smart investment for urban residents.  Especially with first time home owners who are more likely to upgrade to a new home.   Most moveable coops are on wheels, making it easier to pack up your flock and move to a new location.

A moveable chicken coop is a great DIY project

In addition, a portable coop also allows you the option of moving the coop around your yard for easier cleaning and yard maintenance.  This also helps regulate the birds environment.  On a hot muggy day, your coop can be pushed under trees for shade.  On a rainy or windy day the coop can be pushed next to the house to minimize their discomfort.   You may even enjoy changing the locations on a seasonal basis.  A fall garden would make a wonderful spot for a coup.

Furthermore, most portable coop designs are small and compact and fit the legal restrictions placed on the urban farmer.  They take up less space and are easy to keep away from neighbours.  They are also always fully enclosed which will protect the chickens from predators but also is great for keeping the birds and visitors safe who may not have experience with livestock.

Lastly and most importantly, check your local by-laws.  Some residential areas do not permit the use of their zoned land for raising any livestock.  Some specifically ban the use of raising poultry.  However most urban and suburban zones simply have restrictions that must be followed, like the size of the flock and wether or not you can own a rooster.  Just be sure you are within your legal rights before starting construction.

A portable chicken coop is the perfect solution to raising a small flock of chickens when law or space restrictions get in the way.  Don’t pass up the chance to experience the wonder and joy of keeping chickens, no matter how big or small your land is.

http://www.buildchickencoops.com/portable-coops.htm

https://mobilechickencoops.com/Home_Page.php

Learn how to make kombucha at home

Kombucha tea is often referred to as kombucha mushroom tea; however, kombucha is not a mushroom it is a colony of bacteria and yeast and it is rather easy to make at home.

The most difficult part of making Kombucha tea is finding a mother culture.  First thing to do is ask around your neighborhood and coworkers.  You may be surprised at the number of people growing Kombucha and most of the time they are more than willing to share the benefits.

If you cannot get your hands of a piece of homegrown Kombucha, the next best thing is to purchase a bottle of raw, unpasteurized Kombucha from a healthfood store.  Try to purchase the most pure form of Kombucha, without any additional juice added.

One you have acquired a starter Kombucha, growing your own mother Kombucha is rather simple.

1.     Sterilize a glass jar or ceramic container by boiling in hot water.

2.     The next step is to make a food source for the Kombucha by brewing a sweat tea.  Make green or black tea by using teabags or loose-leaf tea and add a few tablespoons of sugar.

3.     Place a cheese cloth, paper towel or coffee filter over the fermenting jar and secure with a large rubber band or string.

4.     Place the jar in a warm quite spot.  It is not necessary for the Kambucha tea to locate in a dark location but the preferable temperature should be between 73-84 degrees Farrenheight.

5.     After a few weeks of fermentation, the Kambucha tea is ready to harvest.  Pour the liquid into a glass but make sure leave some of the liquid in the original container; this will ensure that the proper pH will be maintained and will prevent contamination.

6.     Repeat as necessary.  The “mother” culture will continue to produce a “daughter” and may continue to be harvested.

A scoby does the work for you when making kombucha

Kombucha tea is reputed to have several health benefits.  It is high in B vitamins and a number of other compounds said to help a wide variety of ailments including stimulating the immune system, preventing cancer, and improving digestion and liver function. Some even say that it helps with those unwelcome hangovers. However, as with all natural remedies, it is best to consult a doctor prior to embarking on a personal treatment regiem.

The tea is similar in taste to sour apple cider and wine, depending on the type of tea that was used and the fermentation process.  The appearance of the mother culture is very similar to a thick pancake suspended in tea.

The “mother” culture can be used indefinitely if continually cared for.