Learn how insects inspire innovation at this Hagley Museum event

When you think of insects, you probably don’t immediately associate them with technology. But without bugs, some of the tech we use every day would be a lot different — and probably not as good.

In short, insects inspire innovation.

Hagley Museum and Library explores the unlikely marriage at Invention Convention Jan. 13–15 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Hagley’s Soda House.

From the event page:

What do house flies, wasps, hawk moths, and dragonflies have in common? They are the muses of drone technology by helping engineers build them smaller, more durable, and more maneuverable. Look closely at a butterfly wing and marvel at how its structure informs high-tech computer screens. Want to survive in the desert? Look no further than the desert beetle, whose strategy to collect water informed a device that could provide enough water per day for the survival of humans. Have trouble hearing? Thank locusts and crickets for some of the latest innovations in hearing aid technology.

Invention Convention, presented by Agilent Technologies, will explore the wonderful world of insects. Learn how the ingenious design and capabilities of insects inspire innovations and inventions that improve people’s lives. Admire the artistry of maggots, see how insects help detectives solve crimes, and learn about our local insect population.

In addition, each day the event will include hands-on activities — such as a Create-an-Invention area, where every invention is issued a Hagley “patent.”

Tickets for Invention Convention are $8 for adults and $6 for children aged 4–14, plus regular museum admission. Click here for more info and to pre-purchase tickets.