Proboscis forms a flexible, sealed cylinder: butterfly

1 of 1 Helioconius sp / Richard Bart.. / License

The two-part proboscis of a butterfly unfurls to form a flexible feeding tube via two half-cylinders that curl over and interlock.

Biomimicry Taxonomy

	Move or stay put >
	Attach >
	Temporarily

Biomimetic Application Ideas

Pipes that can be easily "unzipped" to replace damaged sections, resealable packages. Packaging of objects for storage and travel in space or aerospace applications- solar sails, satellite solar cells, or mechanism for inflatable structures.

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[Collapse all sections] Summary

"The butterfly's proboscis, for example, is formed from the two soft 'lips' on the maxillae, which have become enormously elongated. When in use the two parts, semicircular in section, curl over and interlock to form a stiff but flexible cylindrical tube…" (Foy and Oxford Scientific Films 1982:163)

About the inspiring organism

Lepidoptera
Lepidoptera

Organism/taxonomy data provided by:
Species 2000 & ITIS Catalogue of Life: 2008 Annual Checklist

Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: Pipes that can be easily "unzipped" to replace damaged sections, resealable packages. Packaging of objects for storage and travel in space or aerospace applications- solar sails, satellite solar cells, or mechanism for inflatable structures.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Utilities and pipes, building, packaging, aerospace

References

Foy, Sally; Oxford Scientific Films. 1982. The Grand Design: Form and Colour in Animals. Lingfield, Surrey, U.K.: BLA Publishing Limited for J.M.Dent & Sons Ltd, Aldine House, London. 238 p.

Proboscis forms a flexible, sealed cylinder: butterfly

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