Chinese scientists have introduced an advanced underwater drone that closely resembles a jellyfish, designed for discreet missions in aquatic environments. This innovative device, referred to as a “ghost” drone, was developed by Tao Kai and his team at the Northwestern Polytechnical University in Shaanxi province.
The bionic jellyfish robot is engineered to be nearly indistinguishable from real jellyfish when submerged, enabling it to conduct intelligent detection and real-time monitoring beneath the water”s surface. This underwater phantom represents a significant technological leap, characterized by its low power consumption, near-silent operation, and lifelike appearance. These features make it exceptionally suited for covert monitoring in deep-sea environments.
Designed to observe delicate ecosystems and carry out precise inspections of underwater structures without attracting attention, the underwater phantom drone showcases a transparent form that includes an umbrella-shaped body and tentacles, mirroring the natural characteristics of a jellyfish.
The research team constructed the drone using a specialized hydrogel electrode material. With a compact size of 120mm in diameter and a weight of only 56g, its lightweight nature enhances its stealth capabilities, making it an ideal candidate for secretive underwater operations.
This development underscores the growing intersection of robotics and environmental monitoring, potentially paving the way for future advancements in marine research and exploration.
