During a late night Google search for robot parts, I came across this fascinating interactive art installation created by the Barbarian Group: the Biomimmetic Butterflies. The project combines a multitude of disciplines which I find absolutely fascinating: fine art, mathematics, robotics, and programming.

Biomimmetics essentially refers to the application of natural biological systems to mechanical engineering. in the case of the Biomimmetic Butterflies exhibit, tiny mechanical servos are used to create the illusion of flight to 40 beautifully designed butterflies. As the person approaches one of the 40 butterflies, a mounted camera triggers motion in the butterfly's wings.

The designs of the butterflies are generated by a family of mathematical algorithms. These algorithms, which help define the wing structure and general shape of the butterfly, help produce 5 unique 'species' of butterflies. Because one algorithm can vary dramatically given a set of slightly different inputs, the creators of this experiment were able to simulate biological traits or characteristics – just like you'd find in real life species.

The end result is a beautiful assortment of natural symmetry.