Fractal Geometry and Hierarchy
One of the oldest plants on the planet, Ferns exhibit two structural characteristics that pervade the entire biota: Fractal Geometry and Circulation Hierarchy. The first is evident in the scaling up of self-similar elements. The second in the dendrite structure of the circulation elements with the progressively smaller lengths and widths of arteries down to the capillary level. Of note also is the predominance of 3-way junctions between higher and lower order veins. This system contains lessons for man-made circulation systems such as water, electricity, ventilation, telephones, the internet and finally roads.
Fractal Geometry and Hierarchy
One of the oldest plants on the planet, Ferns exhibit two structural characteristics that pervade the entire biota: Fractal Geometry and Circulation Hierarchy. The first is evident in the scaling up of self-similar elements. The second in the dendrite structure of the circulation elements with the progressively smaller lengths and widths of arteries down to the capillary level. Of note also is the predominance of 3-way junctions between higher and lower order veins. This system contains lessons for man-made circulation systems such as water, electricity, ventilation, telephones, the internet and finally roads.