As a boy growing up in Brazil 40 years ago, Marc Meyers marveled at the lightweight toughness of toucan beaks that he occasionally found on the forest floor. Now, with support from the National Science Foundation, the materials scientist and mechanical and aerospace engineer at UC San Diego, is conducting the first ever detailed engineering analysis of toucan beaks. He says makers of airplanes and automobiles may benefit from his findings. In fact, panels that mimic toucan beaks may offer better protection to motorists involved in crashes.
