The term “bionics”, coined in 1958 by Jack E. Steele, represents the interface between technology and biology. This area of interdisciplinary research is one of growing interest for the general public, industry and researchers. Advances in preventative, restorative and assistive healthcare technologies depend on our ability to create seamless integration between humans and artificial materials.
Key innovations at the forefront of this research include smart hydrogels for tissue engineering scaffolds, soft electronics for brain-machine interfaces, and a general movement towards biohybrid systems. Some major applications include development of materials and devices towards wearable health monitors, surgical implants, prosthetics and orthotics, mobility aids and rehabilitation. As the field evolves, close collaboration between scientists, engineers, clinicians and patients will lead to a new class of mixed natural-artificial systems. The Bionics Network develops materials, technologies and partnerships that support this diverse and exciting field.