Aquatic robot emulates swimming locomotion of manta rays

Developed by researchers at the National University of Singapore (NUS), the so-called MantaDroid, measures 35cm in length, 63cm in width and can swim at a speed of 0.7m per second for up to 10 hours.

Manta rays are of interest because they possess a unique propulsion mechanism that enables them to cruise through turbulent seas by flapping their pectoral fins. This distinctive feature has led researchers to investigate the science behind manta ray locomotion and incorporate similar mechanisms into autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs).

MantaDroid, which weighs 0.7kg, was designed and optimised over two years after an in-depth study of fluid dynamics and multiple experiments which included testing of 40 different fin designs. The fins that were eventually installed on the robot are a pair of flexible pectoral fins made using PVC sheets, giving the device favourable manoeuvrability and swimming capabilities in pool tests.

The MantaDroid was developed by a team led by Associate Professor Chew Chee Meng and Associate Professor Yeo Khoon Seng from the Department of Mechanical Engineering at NUS Faculty of Engineering.