Propulsion characteristics of bioinspired propulsion mechanism in fluid using variable stiffness fin with torsional rectangular elastic plates

Abstract

We have developed a propulsion mechanism using a variable stiffness fin with torsional rectangular elastic plates. The stiffness of the fin was changed by the torsional angle of two rectangular elastic plates. The hardened steel bands SK (QSK plates), which has a low temperature dependence and high durability, were used as the elastic plates. The torsion at the trailing edge of the fin was also added. We evaluated the behavior of the fin, propulsion characteristics, and the flow field surrounding the fin. Copyright © 2013 by the International Society of Offshore and Polar Engineers (ISOPE).