Arizona State University

Del E. Webb School of Construction

 

2002 Research Experience for Undergraduates-Participants

 

Name: Seneca Holmes

Research Topic:  Animal Constructors Inspiring Future Construction Innovations

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Kraig Knutson

Did You Know?   Foraging worker

 

 

Abstract:  

 

 Can we really look to animal constructors for new, exciting and innovative breakthroughs in construction?  Our aim and intent of this research is to possibly uncover hidden knowledge and techniques that will help the construction world.   Construction knowledge is gained and seasoned through various sources.  Can we improve the types of structures, the materials and methods we use, and the organization of the workforce by studying animals?  Other industries of the world have used animals and insects for years but the construction industry has turned a blind eye to all the advancements that can be attained through the study of animals.  We could definitely impoly our technology for phenomenal new age structures and construction methods. How does one go about retrieving this information so that we can learn from it?  We first must research to understand the animals.  Watch videos to better understand animal behavior.  Get a feel for how they communicate.  Talk to animal experts and visit zoos.  Then we must take all the information and relate it to human construction.  By understanding the animals, we will better understand what the construction industry could do to improve time efficiency, build stronger structures, improve organization of workforces, create more economical buildings and design more environmentally sound structures.  Recognizing unforeseen clues, techniques or sources is the key to further enhancing this topic of research.   

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