Bio-Inspired Oscillating Propulsion

• Isaac Chandler, Mechanical Engineering, University of Delaware

• Tyler Van Buren, Mechanical Engineering, University of Delaware

Title: Bio-Inspired Oscillating Propulsion
Presentation Type: Poster

Abstract:

Bio-Inspired Oscillating Propulsion
Isaac Chandler, Prof. Tyler Van Buren

Traditional aquatic propulsion methods rely on constant rotation, whereas nature predominantly employs oscillating motion, resulting in superior maneuverability and efficiency. Human engineering currently cannot compete with a dolphin’s acrobatics or an eel’s long-distance efficiency. Fish oscillations involve two fundamental motions: heaving and pitching, which generate lift-based and mass-based thrust, respectively. By combining these motions, high-efficiency thrust can be produced.
Moreover, swarming behaviors, such as fish schooling or birds’ echelon flight, offer additional advantages by leveraging hydrodynamic interactions. Specifically, fin-fin interaction occurs when the vortices generated by one fin enhance the performance of subsequent fins passing through its wake.

By optimizing heaving and pitching fins for parameters like Reynolds number, Strouhal number, phase offset, and spacing, high-efficiency thrust can be maximized by moving the fins through structured vortex streets.