Complex adaptive structures: scaling, commonality, and difference

Abstract

Complex adaptive structures, which are ubiquitous in nature, are now being emulated for non-biological applications. The theory, analysis and design of such structures represent a challenge for those wishing to create them due to their very complexity. This paper will give an overview of the concepts inherent in such structures in nature and created by design, and why such structures can represent the solution for a number of particular applications.