Computational Study on a Squid-Like Underwater Robot with Two Undulating Side Fins

Abstract

Abstract The undulating fin propulsion system is an instance of the bio-inspired propulsion systems. In the current study, the swimming motion of a squid-like robot with two undulating side fins, mimicking those of a Stingray or a Cuttlefish, was investigated through flow computation around the body. We used the finite analytic method for space discretization and Euler implicit scheme for time discretization along with the PISO algorithm for velocity pressure coupling. A body-fitted moving grid was generated using the Poisson equation at each time step. Based on the computed results, we discussed the features of the flow field and hydrodynamic forces acting on the body and fin. A simple relationship among the fin's principal dimensions was established. Numerical computation was done for various aspect ratios, fin angles and frequencies in order to validate the proposed relationship among principal dimensions. Subsequently, the relationship was examined base on the distribution of pressure difference between upper and lower surfaces and the distribution of the thrust force. In efficiency calculations, the undulating fins showed promising results. Finally, for the fin, the open characteristics from computed data showed satisfactory conformity with the experimental results.