Computational Modeling of Fluid-Structure-Chemical Interactions in Fish Swimming

Aquatic species, such as fish use effective methods for navigation and propulsion in marine environments. Understanding these functionalities of detecting predators, preys, food, and mates by sensing changes in water velocity and pressure offer valuable insights to design efficient underwater robots. Although underwater odor and chemical cues are crucial for fish navigation, the exact mechanisms remain unknown to the scientific community. This project aims to examine these natural swimming techniques and applying them to the design of fish-like underwater robots. By developing innovative computational solvers and tools based on fluid-structural-chemical interactions, the project aims to model and simulate odor-guided propulsion in fish-like bodies. The expected outcomes include critical insights for developing bio-inspired methods and equipment for sensing, detection, navigation, and propulsion in underwater robots. The project’s success could place the Canadian engineering research community and marine engineering industry at the forefront of eco-friendly underwater technology, benefiting areas, such as border security, subsea resource exploration, and rescue operations.

Faculty Supervisor:

Muhammad Saif Ullah Khalid

Student:

Partner:

Case Western Reserve University

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Ocean Tech; Biotechnology; Technology

University:

Lakehead University

Program: