Scientists have created a unique soft robot that swims like a fish and feeds on seawater. It can dive to a depth of 10 km without disturbing fragile underwater ecosystems.
The journal Science Robotics has published a description of an unusual deep-sea robot that completely copies the movements of a real fish. Its main feature is that it runs exclusively on seawater, without traditional rigid engines that can damage underwater fauna.
Slightly larger than a palm (32 cm) and weighing less than a kilogram, the robot uses seawater ions to create an electric field. This field sets in motion a special liquid inside a silicone case, making the robot swim gracefully.
Tests have shown impressive results:
Successful dive to a depth of 4,000 meters
Tested under pressure equivalent to a depth of 10 km
Functionality at temperatures up to 2°C
Equipped with a camera and sensors, this bionic robot opens up new possibilities for exploring the deepest and most unexplored corners of the ocean, where traditional devices are too cumbersome and dangerous for fragile ecosystems.
