In 2005 we saw some of the first new Autonomous Underwater Vehicles or AUV, which were in the shape of fish. These natural motions vessels used the propulsion techniques of Tuna Fish, Dolphins and Sharks with names like RoboTuna, RoboFish and RoboShark. Research scientists at many Universities have re-discovered the benefits of 800 million plus years of evolution and efficiency in the water from these sea creatures. Along with new discoveries in polymer muscles, material memory and fluid dynamic vortexes and eddies, scientists have come closer to mimicking the incredible efficiencies of motion and use of energy that sea life has enjoyed. In 2006 we will see new uses and methods of blowing air bubble flows in the intended path of the submarine to increase speeds when needed. We will see new innovative dual hull designs using pressure sensors which allow the hull to move with the flow of the water changing as needed while taking into consideration relative ocean flows and speed of the vessel. In 2006 we are bound to see several new coatings to streamline and fully utilize boundary layers of fluidity, although some will not be privy to the public domain for years to come. We will see new submarines and AUVs, which are quieter and silent running due to innovative new shapes giving little or no sound or fluid disturbances. Indeed we will see additional new propulsion systems without the need for propellers. Think on all this in 2006. |
