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Biologically Inspired Optical Systems 307

Figure 11.20 (a) A Melanophila acuminate beetle and (b) a close up of its pit organ.

(a) (b)
Figure 11.21 (See color insert following page 302) (a) An artificial eye directly interfaced with the brain and (b)
an electronically controlled insect.

The goal of biomimetic devices, however, should not be merely to imitate nature. Rather,
devices should be designed according to their application with biology providing a valuable
resource for consultation. Nature should be used to improve human designs. This will involve an
increasing collaboration between biologists and engineers so that, eventually, we may improve
upon nature’s designs as well (Figure 11.21).

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Aizenberg, J., Muller, D., Grazul, J., and Hamann, D. Direct fabrication of large micropatterned single crystals.
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Angel, J. Lobster eyes as x-ray telescopes. Astrophysical Journal 1979: 233(1), 364–73.