The tech industry often looks to nature for inspiration. Recently, Nikon introduced its exciting riblet-processing technology.
This advanced technology is aimed at aviation, as well as the water and wind power sectors. It mimics the remarkable surface of shark skin, using Nikon’s specialized laser processing to create riblets.
These riblets are small grooves added to aircraft surfaces, particularly wings and fuselage, where air flows strongly. This helps reduce drag, boost fuel efficiency, and lower CO2 emissions.
Nikon believes its shark skin-inspired technology can enhance fuel consumption in aircraft by about 2%. They project a potential savings of ¥8 billion (around $51 million) in annual fuel costs and a reduction of 300 tons in CO2 emissions.
Nikon has been developing this technology to support sustainability in aviation. They began using riblet technology in 2019 and highlighted their progress at CES last year. This year, they showcased developments relevant to the wind turbine industry.
Nikon’s riblet technology is already making a difference across several sectors. “One of our major advancements this year is applying Riblet technology to actual wind turbines,” shared Mutsuki Nakayama, a Nikon representative.
“We’ve already implemented Riblet technology on aircraft operated by ANA Airlines and Japan Airlines. Now, we’re also looking into applying it to helicopter blades to further reduce drag and improve efficiency.”
But why are sharks so special?
Sharks have been around for over 400 million years. Their skin features unique grooves that help them swim with minimal resistance. By mimicking this design, Nikon is enhancing energy efficiency in various materials, including jet engines.
Nikon’s approach has important benefits compared to older methods that use resin films, which can face issues like heat resistance and durability.
With laser technology, the riblets can be applied precisely even on curved surfaces, avoiding the wrinkles or peeling that can occur with traditional methods.
However, Nikon did face challenges, especially in increasing production to meet high demand. “Initial laser processing was slow, which limited our output. The pandemic has also slowed our progress, but we’re working on improving it,” Nakayama shared.
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