UK scientists invent robot jellyfish to explore coral reefs

A ROBOT jellyfish that mimics the movement of sea creatures has been invented by UK scientists in an attempt to more easily explore coral reefs.

Scientists at the University of Southampton and University of Edinburgh have developed the softshell robot, which uses a similar motion to squid and jellyfish, to allow access to delicate areas like shipwrecks and coral reefs which could be damaged by harder propeller-powered robots.

The robot is powered by a small piston which strikes a bell, creating a propulsive effect which drives it forwards through the water.

Dr Gabriel Weymouth, associate professor in Southampton University’s school of engineering, said divers were currently deployed to carry out tasks that the invention could do instead.

“Where we’re looking at things that are sensitive, or expensive or delicate, all of those are really problematic. Right now we always send divers into those situations, because you just can’t trust underwater vehicles, If there’s anything that you want to make sure not to break... just make sure not to put your underwater vehicle anywhere near it,” he said.

One good example could be conservation projects which involve the application of a substance to coral, which would currently rely on human divers

‘Where we’re looking at things that are sensitive, or expensive or delicate, all of those are really problematic’

but could instead use soft-shelled robots, he said.

The robot has been tested in a tank but has not yet been used in the ocean due to the difficulty of controlling it underwater, a particular challenge for soft robots which can be buffeted by currents.

Dr Weymouth hoped that the problem could be overcome in the next couple of years.