Here's one of the most thought provoking articles I've read for a long time, pointing not just
at some brilliant observation of natural forms, but linking through to the lazyness
encouraged by CAD.
Full marks from me to Gray Holland for this work.
http://www.core77.com/blog/featured_items/a_periodic_table_of_form_the_secret_language_of_surface_and_meaning_in_product_design_by_gray_holland_12752.asp