Bio-inspired design process modeling via functional and substance-field property mapping

Bio-inspired design (BID) is an important approach for generating innovative product design solutions, yet its practical application remains challenging due to the lack of systematic mapping strategies and over-reliance on designers’ experience. This paper proposes a systematic BID process model to support intelligent decision-making in concept generation. The methodology begins with biological prototype screening based on functional keyword search and Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ) scientific effects, followed by quantitative similarity evaluation using fuzzy mathematics. Subsequently, a biological system function model is constructed using the Function Analysis System Technique (FAST) to analyze functional relationships among biological coupling elements. Key coupling elements are then identified by calculating their functional contribution degrees. Based on these elements, biological substance-field (BS-BF) models are established. By mapping the property characterisation functions of bio-substance (BS) and bio-field (BF), the product substance (S) and product field (F) are solved, enabling product function unit generation. Material, energy, and signal flow transmission paths are then analyzed to establish connections between function units and construct a bionic product functional structure. A case study is presented to illustrate the conceptual design generation process using the proposed method, and a user experiment is conducted to validate its effectiveness.