Research team develops novel biomimetic speaking valve technology

Figure 1 left: A water-filled bladder in its closed state (Utricularia vulgaris). When the plant is irritated, it produces a sudden vacuum by means of a rapid opening movement of 0.5 ms of its sensory hairs, in order to suck small creatures into its trap bladder. Right: biomimetic speaking valve with integrated pressure-release valve, modelled on the plant. A flexible membrane opens at critical pressure and simultaneously emits an acoustic warning signal through a pipe, alerting medical personnel.

Download Image The challenge: if conventional speaking valves are used improperly, dangerous overpressure can occur, which can cause serious complications and even death. In a collaboration between the Freiburg Botanical Garden, the Medical Center – University of Freiburg and the Cluster of Excellence livMatS of the University of Freiburg, researchers developed a speaking valve with … Continue reading Research team develops novel biomimetic speaking valve technology