The field of underwater robotics has recently witnessed a significant advancement with the development of a new soft robotic fish by researchers at the Shenyang Institute of Automation of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Inspired by the biological systems of natural fish, this revolutionary device is equipped with advanced multi-mode swimming capabilities, signaling a promising future for underwater exploration and automation technologies.
The design of the soft robotic fish is based on the lateral line sensing system and the muscle actuation mechanisms found in real fish. These biological inspirations have been integrated into the robotic design, encompassing crucial aspects of actuation, perception, and control. The findings, published in the IEEE Transactions on Robotics, reveal the fish’s ability to execute four distinct swimming modes, offering impressive versatility and sensory accuracy compared to current underwater robotic systems.
Central to this technological leap are three primary innovations: the cooperative control of multiple actuation units, the integration of flexible embedded sensing systems, and the development of intelligent environment-adaptive mode switching. The research team utilized 3D printing technology to design a bionic structure reminiscent of a mackerel. This structure functions in tandem with a specially designed soft actuator that features compression springs, dielectric elastomer membranes, and flexible electrodes as its functional layers.
The sophisticated sensing system mimics the lateral line system of natural fish, employing high-precision flexible strain transducers to detect movements and changes in the environment. This enhanced sensory capability enables the robotic fish to evaluate its swimming conditions and make real-time adjustments, optimizing its motion in various fluid environments.
Moreover, by adjusting the excitation amplitude and sequence of multiple bionic muscle units, the robotic fish replicates diverse swimming behaviors observed in nature, allowing it to adapt effortlessly to different aquatic environments.
Key Takeaways:
The creation of this soft robotic fish represents a substantial milestone in the field of underwater robotics, demonstrating the potential for machines that are both more responsive and adaptable. By incorporating natural biological designs, this technology not only improves operational efficiency but also paves the way for novel opportunities in exploration and environmental research. With its multi-mode swimming capabilities and advanced sensory systems, this innovation could lead the way in autonomous underwater operations, proving to be a valuable tool for both scientific inquiry and industrial applications.