Anti-Adhesive Surfaces Inspired by Bee Mandible Surfaces.

Propolis, a naturally sticky substance used by bees to secure their hives and protect the colony from pathogens, presents a fascinating challenge. Despite its adhesive nature, honeybees adeptly handle propolis with their mandibles. Previous research has shown a combination of an anti-adhesive fluid layer and scale-like microstructures on the inner surface of bee mandibles.

Model-Based Biomechanical Exoskeleton Concept Optimization for a Representative Lifting Task in Logistics.

Occupational exoskeletons are a promising solution to prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). However, there are no established systems that support heavy lifting to shoulder height. Thus, this work presents a model-based analysis of heavy lifting activities and subsequent exoskeleton concept optimization.

Interaction between honeybee mandibles and propolis.

In a biomimetic top-down process, challenging the problem of resin deposition on woodworking machine tools, an adequate biological model was sought, which hypothetically could have developed evolutionary anti-adhesive strategies. The honeybee () was identified as an analogue model since it collects and processes propolis, which largely consists of collected tree resin. Propolis is a sticky substance used by bees to seal their hive and protect the colony against pathogens.

RapidNAM: Algorithm for the Semi-Automated Generation of Nasoalveolar Molding Device Designs for the Presurgical Treatment of Bilateral Cleft Lip and Palate.

Objective: Nasoalveolar molding (NAM) is an accepted presurgical treatment modality for newborns with cleft lip and palate (CLP). However, the therapy is time-consuming and requires high expertise. To facilitate the treatment, we reveal an algorithm for the automated generation of patient individual NAM devices for neonates with bilateral cleft lip and palate (BCLP) and present results of software validation.