Biomimicry inspiration for interlocking mechanisms

proboscis on the butterfly forms a flexible, sealed cylinder
- could be a way to "snap" the cogs on to th string/chain
- caterpillar-butterfly connection!
http://www.asknature.org/strategy/36c34a8aaa1965360f5a6e1eb274ce5d
http://library.thinkquest.org/C002251/cgi-bin/default.cgi?language=english&chapter=3&section=2&mode=chapter&outputmode=0&navmenu=0&javascript=0(image 1 source)
http://www.bumblebee.org/invertebrates/Lepidoptera.htm (image 2 source)



 cross section of a proboscis
When it is not used, the proboscis is rolled up. To suck nectar the butterfly straightens it with the help of muscles. To roll it up, no muscles are needed.

 
Makes me think of party blowers....


 



feather filaments
http://www.asknature.org/strategy/c2f8abc558cb3adef7df08b5eb2b4846