Flower Power: Nature's daffodil design

American Institute of Physics (ScienceDaily.com, 5-10-16); Amber Larson, Wisdom Quarterly

Inspired by the stem of a daffodil, a structure with a twisted, helical shape and an elliptical cross section can reduce drag and eliminate side-force fluctuations (ikewrites.com).

 

The Buddha in the garden (pinterest.com)

The unique shape of daffodil stems can reduce drag and remove side-forces due to wind, so now daffodils are helping scientists by inspiring the design of stable structures.

SUMMARY: Researchers have found that a structure inspired by the stem of a daffodil can reduce drag and eliminate side-force fluctuations.

Discovery

In 1940, the Tacoma Narrows Bridge collapsed in dramatic fashion, twisting in the wind before it snapped and plunged into the water below. As wind blew across the span, the flow induced oscillating sideways forces that helped bring down the bridge -- just months after opening. This type of side-force oscillation can also damage antennae, towers and other structures. More