Chinese engineers unveil first intelligent bionic whale shark

Chinese engineers have created a robotic version of a whale shark. It is the first robot of its kind. This intelligent robot shark weighs 770 lbs and can precisely mimic the movements of a real shark.

According to CGTN, the robot shark, a result of advanced bionic technology, not only swims, turns, and floats on the water but can also dive and even move its mouth. "This is the largest bionic fish we have made so far," said Gao Chao, the robot's designer, who works at the research office for underwater propulsion technology at Shenyang Aerospace Xinguang Group. He added that it is the world’s first robot to mimic a fish in movement and its characteristic spots precisely.

The robot shark, an intelligent whale shark model, is equipped with seven movable joints and is controlled by a wireless remote. Thanks to advanced software and multi-joint bionic propulsion, the robot can reach speeds of up to 2.3 ft/s and dive to a depth of 66 feet. Additionally, it is equipped with optical cameras, sonar, and the Chinese BeiDou positioning system.

The engineering team that created the robot claims it can be used for various purposes, such as monitoring water quality, mapping underwater terrains, or carrying out specialized missions.

Compared to similar projects, the robot shark is not equipped with a propeller drive, making its body shape streamlined and minimizing the risk of getting entangled in underwater obstacles. This, in turn, reduces the potential threat it could pose to marine plants and animals.

CGTN also reported that the Shenyang company has developed various bionic models so far, including finless porpoises from the Yangtze River, killer whales, and dolphins.