Improved underwater drone performance through the utilization of octopus-inspired twisted artificial muscles.

New Underwater Vehicle Design Mimics Octopus Muscles for Improved Efficiency and Maneuverability

Researchers at the University of Iowa's Department of Mechanical Engineering have made a significant breakthrough in underwater vehicle technology. Led by Caterina Lamuta, the team has developed a new method to enhance the efficiency and maneuverability of small underwater hydrofoils.

The innovation involves modifying the wings of the hydrofoil with a series of coiled wires, powered by small electrical motors known as actuators. This design is inspired by the papillae, a group of tiny muscles used by octopuses to adjust their movement in response to changes in water flow.

According to the researchers, this is the first demonstration of an underwater flow-control device powered by twisted artificial muscles. The new design allows the craft to maintain control and stability, even when sharply tilted against the current.

When activated, these spires unspool in flowing water, reducing drag and increasing lift. The result is a craft that moves more smoothly and uses less energy, even in challenging underwater conditions.

The study, published in the Robotics Reports journal, shows that when tested in flowing water at different speeds, the modified hydrofoil generated up to 30% more lift and reduced drag by as much as 10%.

The U.S. Office of Naval Research funded the project, which supports research that could advance naval technology. The technology could help save energy and improve the portability and maneuverability of seafaring vehicles.

The technology is especially important as underwater vehicles are increasingly used in offshore energy, ocean exploration, and environmental monitoring industries. By learning from nature's most flexible swimmer, the octopus, researchers hope to overcome the challenges of current designs, which often struggle with drag, high energy use, and limited movement in tight spaces.

The potential applications of this technology are wide-ranging. It could enable underwater drones to squeeze into tight spaces, explore fragile ecosystems without causing damage, or carry out repairs in difficult-to-reach areas.

The research on underwater vehicles led by Caterina Lamuta's team at the University of Iowa could pave the way for more efficient, adaptable, and sustainable underwater machines in the future.

Improved underwater drone performance through the utilization of octopus-inspired twisted artificial muscles.