Cognitive Models and Computational Tools
Biologically-inspired design depends on building deep and accurate analogies
between human and biological systems, since design principles useful to a human
problem must be derived from analyzing a similar problem faced in the biological
world. As mentioned previously, we do not yet fully understand how even experts
in engineering or biology go about mining evolutionary adaptation as a source for
design inspiration. Cognitive studies are required to understand the cognitive
and social processes underlying biologically inspired design. The results of
these cognitive studies are computational models and tools that support the
transfer of biological knowledge to engineering domains, and vice-versa, and
educational strategies that teach engineers and biologists how to operate in
this interdisciplinary framework.
Project 1
Computational Tools for Enhancing Creativity in Biologically Inspired Engineering Design | NSF Intelligent Information Systems | PI Ashok Goel leads a team of biologists, engineers, and computer scientists to develop human-centered computational tools to enhance innovation and creativity in BID. This effort will conduct cognitive studies and develop computational models of creative analogical reasoning in BID.
