Fin Power

A revolutionary amphibious robot is yet another example of technology mimicking nature to address a wide range of potential applications. Known as Velox, it utilizes flexible fins rather than traditional propellors to generate the thrust needed for moving through water, as well as across land and even ice.

The undulating fins extend outward along the side of the vehicle, similar to the mantle of a cuttlefish, enabling it to explore fragile underwater habitats, such as coral reefs, with less risk to animals and plants. It’s quieter, more maneuverable than a propellor and can quickly reverse direction. It creates no cavitation (noise that results from gas bubbles), and the flexible material is less likely to get caught in weed beds.

As autonomous or remotely operated vehicles, Velox robots could be used for search and rescue operations, personal propulsion units for divers, wildlife observation or harvesting food from the sea. The technology could conceivably be scaled up to create a new generation of stealth submarine. And when moored in a stream or river, energy from the motion of the current could be harnessed to recharge the on-board batteries.