Bio-inspired Design System for the Egyptian Market: a Short-term Project Case Study

• Main Authors: Nariman G. Lotfi, Dina Bahgat
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Aiap Edizioni 2019-06-01
• Series: Pad
• Subjects: biomimicry; bio- inspiration; product design process; nature; egypt
• Online Access: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bUFoIHN-Zi5m_7wDuJivV7DkhFm35Guc/view?usp=sharing

Product Design development requires many sources of information and inspiration, one of which is nature. Bio-inspiration and Biomimicry are tools based on extracting information from nature and applying them to reach sustainable, efficient products. Bio-inspiration involves gathering ideas from nature and adjusting them based on project requirements and available resources. It provides flexibility by integrating possibilities without the limitations. These processes deliver realistic, short-term compromises that are applicable, efficient, and functional. Egyptian businesses, in- cluding small companies and startups focusing on Corporate Social Responsibility, will benefit because projects will be realizable, leading to innovative products that encourage local manufacturing. The research aims at developing a system that creates innovative, efficient, and sustainable solutions while satisfying the Egyptian market’s needs. Research methods used were interviews with local companies and designers in Egypt as well as a case study of a short-term product develop- ment project. Research outcomes led to the development of a Bio-inspired design system where products were developed with the consideration of user needs to be locally produced and cost efficient. It is recommended to develop an ecosystem, which incorporates teaching skills to local workers in Egypt while investing in pro- duction techniques and materials’ development, leading to local, environmentally friendly products.