Current Research | Biomimetics

Understanding Bio-Inspired Robot Propulsion, Maneuvering, and Power Hydrodynamic Control and Autonomous Docking Study

By Marvin Stuart Wright, Dr Qing Xiao, Dr Mark Post

Autonomous underwater vehicles (AUV) revolutionized scientific and industrial monitoring, investigation and exploration of the oceans. The highly anticipated characteristics and recent technology advances are a driving force for further research and development in this area. However, up until now there are still various limitations to the fully autonomous and economically successful application of such systems.

The research will focus on reducing such limitations, especially in terms of autonomy to further enable long term self-sufficient deployment without human intervention. In order to achieve an extended self-sufficient period, the AUV’s ability to dock for recharging and information transfer is vital. Such docking activity requires high manoeuvrability, precision and robustness in control and system design. To fully understand the systems functionality within the ocean environment a hydrodynamic performance analysis and control and system design study will be carried out.

With emphasis on enhancing the overall efficiency of an AUV system, special focus will be put on biomimetic concepts and technologies.