Jason Ford

Robotic carp dives on demand

News

A robot fish that mimics the movements of a carp has been developed by researchers from the National University of Singapore’s (NUS) Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering.

NUS claim the robotic fish can be programmed to perform specific submarine functions for marine archaeologists, oil and gas operators, underwater cable companies, and armed services.

The team, comprising Prof Xu Jianxin, Mr Fan Lupeng, graduating electrical engineering student and research fellow, and Dr Ren Qinyuan, will have their research featured at the IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems in Tokyo on 3-7 November 2013.

‘Currently, robot fish capable of 2D movements are common, meaning that these models are not able to dive into the water,’ Prof Xu said in a statement. ‘Our model is capable of 3D movements as it can dive and float, using its fins like a real fish. Compared to traditional AUVs [autonomous underwater vehicles], they are certainly more mobile, with greater manoeuvrability. If used for military purpose, fish robots would definitely be more difficult to detect by the enemy.”

According to NUS, robot fish are also quieter and consume less energy compared to traditional AUVs.

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