PROJECT 5-6

docx

School

Wilmington University *

*We aren’t endorsed by this school

Course

240

Subject

Electrical Engineering

Date

Oct 30, 2023

Type

docx

Pages

Uploaded by MajorField8912

Running head: Biomimicry in Action: Submarines and Airplanes Inspired by Nature 1 Biomimicry in Action: Submarines and Airplanes Inspired by Nature Nichole Watson Wilmington University

Running head: Biomimicry in Action: Submarines and Airplanes Inspired by Nature 2 Abstract This paper explores the physics surrounding submarines and airplanes including their similarities, differences, and connections to the animal kingdom. In connection to submarines, we will delve into hydrodynamics, principles of buoyancy, pressure, and propulsion that empower submarines to navigate the ocean. In connection to airplanes, we will delve into aerodynamics, thrust, and lift that define flight. Also, we will explore how these engineered creations are inspired by nature, comparing them to the animal kingdom. From the grace and flow of dolphins to the exploration of the skies by birds. This paper offers a concise exploration of the physics behind submarines and airplanes while also showcasing the connections of man- made and nature. The research for this paper is based on scholarly journals and reputable educational websites, including NASA, the University of Notre Dame, the United States Naval Academy, and Virginia Tech. Biomimicry in Action: Submarines and Airplanes Inspired by Nature

Running head: Biomimicry in Action: Submarines and Airplanes Inspired by Nature 3 The sky and the sea are expansive and captivating. Today we have creations that reflect animals in nature, instances of biomimicry. Submarines and airplanes, products of human engineering, are examples of what we use to explore these contrasting environments. Beyond their mechanical aspects, these vessels are linked to nature, drawing inspiration from the dynamics and brilliance found in the animal kingdom. The physics and design of submarines and airplanes unveil the intricacies that enable them to navigate different avenues. From the fundamental structures, the principles of their basic operation, and the similarities and distinctions that separate the two; both pull inspiration from nature in aspects of birds in the skies and whales or dolphins in the sea. This analysis explores how the design and physics of submarines and airplanes are inspired by nature, and how human innovation continues to enable us to explore the world in new and exciting ways. Submarines can navigate the ocean's depths safely and effectively due to the interconnected principles of buoyancy, pressure, propulsion, and hydrodynamics. A submarine's ability to float is governed by Archimedes' Principle, which states that the weight of water displaced by the submarine is equal to the weight of the submarine itself, creating an upward buoyant force opposing gravity (Mungan & Lipscombe, 2019, pg. 2). However, unlike surface ships, submarines possess the unique capability to control their buoyancy on demand, allowing them to sink or rise at will. To submerge, a submarine takes water into its ballast tank, increasing its weight and causing it to sink as it descends. Pressure intensifies with depth, but submarines are designed with a robust pressure hull to withstand these extreme conditions. This watertight shell shields the crew and equipment from the crushing forces of the deep sea (Brain & Freudenrich, 1970). Submarines are equipped with propulsion systems, such as electric motors driving propellers or pump jets, which generate thrust to propel them through the water.

Your preview ends here

Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version

Access to all documents
Unlimited textbook solutions
24/7 expert homework help

Running head: Biomimicry in Action: Submarines and Airplanes Inspired by Nature 4 Additionally, control surfaces like rudders and dive planes enable precise control of depth and direction. Hydrodynamics play a pivotal role, featuring streamlined hull shapes that minimize drag and enhance overall efficiency (Brain & Freudenrich, 1970). These interconnected physics principles synergize to enable submarines to navigate the ocean's depths safely and effectively. The physics of an airplane is governed by the fundamental principles of aerodynamics, thrust, lift, weight, and drag. Aerodynamics plays a critical role in controlling how air flows around and over the aircraft’s wings (Cross & Fields, 2018, slide 2). As air accelerates over the wing’s curved upper surface, it generates lower pressure compared to the slower-moving air beneath it, this is known as Bernoulli’s principle (Brain, Lamb, & Adkins, 1970). The wings of the airplane are designed to create a pressure differential between the top and bottom surfaces, which is what creates an upward force of lift. This is due to air pressure on the bottom of the wing being higher than the air pressure on top (NASA, 2022). Thrust, on the other hand, is produced by engines, such as jet turbines or propellers. These are utilized to overcome drag and propel the airplane forward. Furthermore, the control surfaces, such as ailerons, elevators, and rudders, allow pilots to maneuver and control the airplane’s orientation and direction (Cross & Fields, 2018, slide 2). These fundamental principles enable the airplane to achieve lift off, maintain stable flight, and execute safe landings as it explores the skies. When it comes to submarines and airplanes there are intriguing similarities along with stark differences. Both modes of transport rely on the fundamental principles of physics, including buoyancy and pressure, to operate safely and effectively. The largest difference between the two is the environments they explore. Submarines are designed to navigate through water and utilize buoyancy to lift and submerge, while airplanes explore the skies relying on aerodynamics and lift to stay afloat. Both utilize propulsion systems; however, submarines use

Running head: Biomimicry in Action: Submarines and Airplanes Inspired by Nature 5 propellers or pump jets to push through water, while airplanes utilize engines to create thrust and forward motion through the air. Submarines and airplanes must be streamlined to reduce drag, which results in improved efficiency and increased speed. Lastly, control surfaces, such as rudders and wings, contribute to the control of steering and stability. These similarities and differences express and exemplify how applications of physics, mechanics, and engineering are utilized and contribute to the similarities and differences of the two. Although submarines and airplanes are the fruit of human-made engineering, they equally draw inspiration from the animal kingdom. Submarines have a hydrodynamic design and buoyancy control, which parallels dolphins and whales. The streamlined hulls of submarines mirror the sleek bodies of the two, optimizing their movement through the water (M., 2021). Whales can control their buoyancy in the ocean by taking in and releasing water, which directly parallels submarines. For airplanes, their design and capabilities are parallel to birds. Aircraft wings are engineered with aerodynamic precision, mirroring the lift-generating properties of a bird’s wings. Along with this, the movement and control system are also based on how birds control their flight (University of Notre Dame, 2021). These connections to the animal kingdom exemplify the concept of biomimicry. By replicating the efficient designs and capabilities of animals, we can develop designs and transport that are more streamlined, maneuverable, and efficient. Submarines and airplanes are two fascinating examples of how human innovation derives from nature itself. By mimicking the efficient designs and capabilities of animals, we have been able to develop modes of transport that allow us to explore the depths of the ocean and the vastness of the sky. This paper has explored the physics behind submarines and airplanes, highlighting the connections between these engineered creations and the natural world. From the

Running head: Biomimicry in Action: Submarines and Airplanes Inspired by Nature 6 streamlined hulls of submarines to the aerodynamic wings of airplanes, we see how human ingenuity has drawn inspiration from nature to create vehicles that are both efficient and effective. As we continue to explore new frontiers, it is likely that we will continue to look to nature for inspiration, developing new and innovative technologies that allow for endless possibilities.

Your preview ends here

Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version

Access to all documents
Unlimited textbook solutions
24/7 expert homework help

Running head: Biomimicry in Action: Submarines and Airplanes Inspired by Nature 7 References Brain, M., & Freudenrich, C. (1970). How Submarines Work. Retrieved October 7, 2023, from HowStuffWorks website: https://science.howstuffworks.com/transport/engines- equipment/submarine.htm/printable Brain, M., Lamb, R., & Adkins, B. (1970). How Airplanes Work. Retrieved October 7, 2023, from HowStuffWorks website: https://science.howstuffworks.com/transport/flight/modern/airplanes.htm/printable Cross, D., & Fields, M. (2018). The Physics of Flight . Virginia Tech: GeoTEd-UAS. Retrieved from GeoTEd-UAS website: https://vsgc.odu.edu/geoted-uas/wp- content/uploads/sites/13/2019/09/Physics_of_Flight.pdf M., T. (2021). Designing Unmanned Underwater Vehicles through Biomimicry. Scientific Bulletin of Naval Academy , XXIV (1), 61–73. https://doi.org/10.21279/1454-864x-21-i1- 007 Mungan, C. E., & Lipscombe, T. C. (2019). How Quickly Can a Submarine Dive? The Physics Educator , 01 (04), 1950013. https://doi.org/10.1142/s2661339519500136 NASA. (2022, October 4). Airplane Parts and Function | Glenn Research Center | NASA. Retrieved October 7, 2023, from Glenn Research Center | NASA website: https://www1.grc.nasa.gov/beginners-guide-to-aeronautics/airplane-parts-function/ University of Notre Dame. (2021, June). Staying airborne: How bird wings are built for aerodynamic and efficient flight | Biomechanics in the Wild. Retrieved October 7, 2023, from Nd.edu website: https://sites.nd.edu/biomechanics-in-the-wild/2021/06/01/staying- airborne-how-bird-wings-are-built-for-aerodynamic-and-efficient-flight/