Vorticity Control

When fluid moves past objects, vortices (or eddies) are created. Vortices created by solid bodies, such as ships, induce drag. However, fish appear to use vortices in a beneficial way, reducing drag and, thus, improving their swimming efficiency. By studying the flow of water past fish, Professors Michael Triantafyllou and Dick Yue and their colleagues hope to improve the propulsion of vessels such as autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). Currently, the range of AUVs is limited by battery capacities and today’s propeller technology. With a more efficient propulsion system, AUVs could gather more data and be useful in a broader range of applications. Research to more fully understand vorticity control and its beneficial impact for propulsion is continuing.