Underwater Undulating Propulsion Biomimetic Robots: A Review

Area of Science:

• Robotics
• Marine Engineering
• Biomimetics

Background:

• Traditional propeller-based propulsion for underwater robots is inefficient and impractical.
• Underwater biomimetic robots exhibit enhanced stability and maneuverability, especially in challenging marine conditions.
• Undulating propulsion biomimetic robots represent a promising advancement in underwater robotics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To classify existing underwater biomimetic robots.
• To outline the main contributions of these robots to the field.
• To summarize propulsion mechanisms of undulating biomimetic robots based on diverse studies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and classification of underwater biomimetic robots.
• Synthesis of theoretical, numerical, and experimental studies on propulsion mechanisms.
• Identification of research gaps and future perspectives.

Main Results:

• Underwater biomimetic robots, particularly those using undulating propulsion, demonstrate significant advantages over traditional designs.
• A comprehensive classification of current underwater biomimetic robots and their contributions is presented.
• Key propulsion mechanisms are summarized, supported by theoretical, numerical, and experimental evidence.

Conclusions:

• Undulating propulsion biomimetic robots are a viable and superior alternative to propeller-based systems for underwater applications.
• This review provides a foundational understanding and identifies critical areas for future research in biomimetic underwater robotics.
• The findings aim to guide the development of more efficient and capable underwater robotic systems.