31.15. Research Directions and Emerging Technologies

Try these first

1. 1.

   What are smart materials?

   Hint

   Think about materials that monitor stress.

2. 2.

   What is bio-mimicry?

   Hint

   Consider how engineers use nature for solutions.

3. 3.

   What is an example of smart materials?

   • Wood
   • Piezoelectric materials
   • Concrete

   Hint

   Think about materials that can monitor themselves.

4. 4.

   True or False: Bio-inspired robots can adapt their designs based on natural systems.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider how engineers look to nature for solutions.

5. 5.

   Design a maintenance strategy for a bridge using smart materials. What specific smart materials would you employ, and how would they contribute to predictive maintenance?

   Hint

   Consider combining multiple smart materials.

6. 6.

   Critically analyze the advantages and potential drawbacks of implementing bio-inspired robots in urban maintenance. Include specific scenarios where they would excel or struggle.

   Hint

   Weigh the benefits against costs in urban settings.