Lotus Leaf Bumps The Secret To Smooth Surfaces?

The lotus plant, otherwise known as the water lily, has been a source of inspiration for centuries. But this time, people are mostly interested in the bumps on the surface of its leaves. Researchers at Ohio State University have created computer models of materials that, arrayed with tiny bumps, will repel water or allow microscopic machines to operate with far less friction. In a few years, the development could lead to far cheaper wide-screen televisions, chips that can analyze blood samples or windshields that clean themselves