Bioinspired Underwater Propulsors
Tyler Van Buren, Daniel Floryan, Alexander J. Smits
Abstract
In recent years, there has been considerable interest in developing novel underwater vehicles that use propulsion systems inspired by biology [1,2]. Such vehicles have the potential to uncover new mission capabilities and improve maneuverability, efficiency, and speed [3,4]. Here we will explore the physical mechanisms that govern the performance – especially swimming speed and efficiency – of propulsive techniques inspired by biology. We will also show that we can translate the understanding we have gained from biology to the design of a new generation of underwater vehicles.
Topics & Concepts
UnderwaterPropulsionMarine engineeringComputer sciencePropulsive efficiencyEngineeringSystems engineeringAerospace engineeringOceanographyGeologyMicro and Nano RoboticsBiomimetic flight and propulsion mechanismsUnderwater Vehicles and Communication Systems