Insectario: Arthropod Structures for a Morphogenetic Interespecies Design

Authors

  • Belén Salvatierra Meza Universidad Finis Terrae / Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5821/jida.2025.13636

Keywords:

ecological adaptation, interspecies design, morphogenetic strategies, arthropod structures, interdisciplinary laboratory

Abstract

This work describes a second-year pedagogical experience in which, through Research by Design (RbD) approaches, the morphogenesis of insects was investigated for its potential to guide the design of resilient structures in the fase of ecological crises. Observation with magnifying glasses and microscopes enabled the análisis of exoskeletons and the identification of pattern of segmentation, articulation, and envelopes, translated into tensión elements, skins, and modules. These principles gave rise to replicable modular systems, understanding structure as a generator of space. The process wove together drawing, diagrams, physical models, and prototypes, integrating multiple scales and bodies of knowledge. The results showed a high leve of conceptual development, enabling intersections among biology, technique, and design, and outlining speculative scenarios for new forms of cohabitation.

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Published

2025-10-28

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