Transfer of synthesis, logistic and recycling processes in nature to industrial processes

Abstract

In biological structures, where logistic, synthesis and recycling processes take place, one finds compartments for these different processes. These are arranged in a specific order so that there is optimal synthesis, transformation, logistics, freedom from interference and flexibility of action. Between the compartments run fast transport systems, microtubules or roads, along which information, molecules etc. are transported. Because production, transport and recycling processes run in every living cell, or numerous macroscopic logistical pathways between cells have been evolved and optimized, various biological functional and design structures can serve as models for industrial production processes. In the context of biointelligent production concepts, input and output of material, energy and information, resource-optimized biological production processes and recycling of materials are interesting aspects with transfer potential. In this paper, numerous examples from nature and approaches to transfer the principles to industrial production processes are presented. Some of them have already proven their effectiveness and efficiency, others have yet to do so. The hypothesis is that further optimization potential can be tapped if principles that have been successfully applied for millions of years are transferred to human processes that have only been developed over decades or centuries.