Side Fins Performance in Biomimetic Unmanned Underwater Vehicle

Abstract

This paper presents the experimental research conducted for the Biomimetic Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (BUUV). The study’s major goal is to create a single, flexible side fin with adequate proportions and stiffness for an energy-efficient propulsion system. The experiments were carried out in a laboratory water tunnel equipped with a sensor for direct thrust measurement for various fin dimensions. Further, the particle image velocimetry (PIV) approach was used for a more in-depth examination of fluid–structure interaction (FSI) phenomena. The given experiments indicate the region of superior propulsion system performance and explain the main aspects that have influenced thrust generation using image processing and the PIV approach.