Function cards are an essential part of biomimicry research because they enable the translation of knowledge from nature into the language of design. Their purpose is to identify and record the functions of natural phenomena – focusing not only on how something looks, but primarily on what it does and what problem it solves. In this way, biological observation becomes a practical source of inspiration for design processes. Function cards thus serve as a bridge between biology and design: they help translate principles from nature into universally understandable categories that can be applied even by designers without a background in biology.

In my research, I created function cards on a flying seed, a double cone in conifers, and a pine cone. This approach allowed me to transform my observations into a form that clearly defines the functions these natural objects perform (for example, moisture regulation and seed protection, efficient transport, or a defensive mechanism). Function cards helped me to gain an overview of the essence of individual phenomena and, at the same time, to create a basis from which I could draw when searching for innovative solutions inspired by nature.