Researchers at the University of Southampton, MIT and the Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology are developing an underwater vehicle that is inspired by octopus' method of movement. Octopus movement is reminiscent of balloons which, when inflated and released, shoot away very quickly. Octopi do something similar albeit with water.
This modus operandi is now being copied in the form of a soft-body miniature underwater vehicle fitted with a balloon system that takes in and expels water, moving the robot forward.
The vehicle is equipped with a rigid polycarbonate skeleton covered in an outer elastic balloon envelope. An external pump sends water into the balloon. A set of rear fins ensures the robot moves in a straight line instead of buzzing all over the place like a balloon.
This innovative project is yet another example of how the animal kingdom can lend inspiration to modern-day robotics.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Soft-body Robotics
- The development of soft-body miniature underwater vehicles that mimic the movement of octopuses presents opportunities for disruptive innovation in the robotics industry.
- Bio-inspired Design
- The utilization of octopus' method of movement as inspiration for underwater vehicles showcases the potential for disruptive innovation through bio-inspired design.
- Balloon System Technology
- The integration of a balloon system in underwater vehicles for propulsion introduces disruptive innovation possibilities in the field of vehicle technologies.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Robotics
- The development of soft-body miniature underwater vehicles based on the movements of octopuses offers disruptive innovation opportunities in the robotics industry.
- Marine Exploration
- The deployment of bio-inspired underwater vehicles could revolutionize marine exploration, opening up disruptive innovation potentials in the field.
- Transportation
- The application of balloon system technology in vehicles has the potential to disrupt the transportation industry by introducing novel propulsion methods.
