The goal of this project was to develop a nature-inspired solution designed to increase human survival rates during wildfires. My project group and I began the project with rigorous research into the causes, progression and current control methods of wildfires. Through this comprehensive research, we delineated the problem, defines our design objectives, and established necessary requirements of the final design. Our ultimate design goal was to engineer a bio-inspired mechanism capable of actively dispersing fire retardant at the wildfire front without needing direct human action.

First, biological dispersion methods were researched in literature. These biological examples were constructed in an ACCREx tree based on their mechanical working principles, as is depicted in the accompanying images. From the ACCREx tree, four promising biological examples were selected. Drawing inspiration form these natural phenomena, innovative concept solutions were designed. With the weighted criteria method, the concept design based on a shaking dog movement was selected for further development. This concept was turned into a 3D-printed prototype and was tested to inspect areas of improvement. Based on the promising results, we formulated a proposal outlining the implementation strategy for our design aimed at effectively mitigating wildfire incidents.

Throughout this project, I acquired valuable experience with managing a design project dealing with a substantial challenge. Wildfires are characterised by their extreme nature, involving severe temperatures, rapid development, and powerful wind forces. Navigating this considerable problem demanded a systemic design approach that promoted creativity. Utilising the ACCREx tree method enabled us to systemically categorise potential solutions aligned with our design objective, which simplified our approach to tackle this complex issue. Additionally, the ACCREx methodology forced us to identify the mechanical working principles in biological phenomena and formalise the essence of these mechanisms to develop into non-conventional design concepts.

Furthermore, collaborating within my project team provided me with essential lessons in effective teamwork, particularly when working with individuals having different expertises. The diverse team members reinforced the importance of assigning tasks in alignment with each member’s specialisation, ensuring that everyone contributed their unique strengths to the project. It also encouraged learning, as we collectively expanded our knowledge and skill stets.