Note: Dynamic analysis of a robotic fish motion with a caudal fin with vertical phase differences

Area of Science:

• Robotics
• Bio-inspired Engineering
• Fluid Dynamics

Background:

• Robotic fish mimic aquatic animals for underwater exploration and research.
• Energy efficiency is a critical challenge in the design of autonomous underwater vehicles.
• Caudal fin propulsion is a common and effective locomotion method in fish.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the energy consumption of a robotic fish with a caudal fin featuring vertical phase differences.
• To compare the energy efficiency of this novel robotic fish design against a conventional robotic fish.
• To demonstrate the effectiveness of vertically waving caudal fins for efficient thrust generation.

Main Methods:

• Developing a robotic fish model with a specialized caudal fin.
• Measuring and comparing the energy required for thrusting between the novel and conventional designs.
• Analyzing the fluid dynamics and propulsive forces generated by the vertically waving caudal fin.

Main Results:

• The robotic fish with a vertically waving caudal fin demonstrated significantly lower energy consumption.
• Comparative analysis confirmed energy savings attributable to the vertical phase differences in the caudal fin.
• The vertically waving motion proved to be an efficient mechanism for generating thrust.

Conclusions:

• Robotic fish utilizing caudal fins with vertical phase differences offer superior energy efficiency.
• This bio-inspired approach to robotic fish design enhances propulsive performance and reduces energy expenditure.
• Vertically waving caudal fins represent a promising advancement in efficient underwater robotic locomotion.