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Researchers at the University of Maryland are developing a new unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) that mimics the movement of fish. Led by assistant professor of mechanical engineering Cecilia Huertas Cerdeira, the project is focused on creating a UUV powered by a robotic fin inspired by the rear fin of a tuna fish. This innovative propulsion system promises greater speed, maneuverability, and efficiency compared to traditional UUVs, which rely on rotating propellers.
Drawing on years of evolutionary biology, Huertas Cerdeira’s research aims to replicate the natural flexibility and efficiency of fish fins, according to TechXplore. By mimicking these natural mechanisms, the team hopes to optimize the movement of UUVs, making them more adept at navigating the ocean’s depths.
The project, which stems from a paper published in Scientific Reports, seeks to build a robotic fin that can adjust its stiffness and shape in real-time, much like the fins of a tuna. This adaptation will allow the UUV to glide through the water with minimal drag and noise, a significant advantage for both scientific exploration and military operations. The team plans to test the prototype at the University of Maryland’s Hydrodynamics Lab later this year and hopes to complete a fully functional UUV within two to three years.
Unlike conventional UUVs, which use noisy thrusters and increase drag, the fish-inspired fin is quiet and streamlined. This approach not only enhances performance but also offers a potential breakthrough for military and commercial applications. For example, underwater vessels can be used for tasks such as monitoring oil leaks, conducting environmental research, and even neutralizing underwater mines, according to TechXplore.
By turning to nature for inspiration, the team aims to push the boundaries of underwater exploration. The development of this bio-inspired propulsion system could usher in a new generation of UUVs, enhancing both scientific research and industrial capabilities beneath the waves.
