A Soft Starfish-Shaped Underwater Robot from the US Boasts Three Distinct Movement Modes

Breakthrough Starfish-Inspired Soft Submarine Robot

According to НВ — Техно: The University of North Carolina in the United States has unveiled a novel soft underwater robot modeled after a starfish. Equipped with four flexible fins and two actuators, this advanced robot maneuvers in three dimensions, unlocking new possibilities for underwater exploration. Its three movement modes enable it to ascend vertically, swim horizontally, and rotate, offering exceptional agility and control.

How the Robot Works and Its Capabilities

This robot integrates mechanical intelligence principles, allowing it to move efficiently without requiring additional actuators. In the "jellyfish mode," both actuators operate simultaneously, producing rapid fin movements to drive vertical motion. The "fish mode" activates only one actuator, causing a fin to oscillate and propel the robot forward horizontally. Meanwhile, the "rotor mode" alternates actuator activation to generate asymmetric motions, enabling the robot to spin around its axis.

Outfitted with a camera for underwater observation, the robot can independently or collaboratively lift objects. This innovation builds upon the team’s earlier creation inspired by manta rays, which was fast but lacked three-dimensional maneuverability - a limitation addressed by this new design.

Future plans include developing a fully wireless version of the robot. This emerging technology holds promise as a foundation for creating highly maneuverable underwater robotic systems with simplified designs.

Ji Yan, the study’s lead author and professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering, commented, "One of the most exciting aspects of this project is demonstrating how intelligent design methods can yield robotic devices capable of an incredibly wide range of movements using only a minimal number of actuators."

Presented on October 9, this soft starfish-like underwater robot represents a significant advancement with the potential to transform underwater research and robotics industries.

The development of this soft underwater robot opens new avenues for enhancing subsea technology. Its innovative design and mechanical approach reduce complexity, potentially lowering production and operation costs. The envisioned wireless model could further expand its applications in diverse oceanographic studies and underwater missions.

As underwater robotics continue to evolve, innovations like the palm-sized robot that can jump, climb, and swim using elastic limbs are paving the way for versatile applications in various environments. This compact robot showcases the potential for advanced mobility and adaptability, complementing the capabilities of the newly unveiled starfish-inspired robot. Both developments highlight the exciting future of robotic exploration.