Chinese engineers unveil world's first bionic whale shark robot

The Chinese have created a robotic version of a whale shark. This is the first robot of its kind. This intelligent robot shark weighs 350 kilograms and is able to precisely replicate the movements of a real shark.

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

The robot shark, an intelligent model of the whale shark, is equipped with seven moving joints and is controlled via a wireless remote. Thanks to advanced software and multi-joint bionic propulsion, the robot is able to reach speeds of up to 0.7 metres per second and can dive to depths of 20 metres. Additionally, it is equipped with optical cameras, sonar, and the Chinese BeiDou positioning system.

The team of engineers who created the robot claims that it can be used for various purposes, such as monitoring water quality, mapping underwater terrains, or accomplishing specialised missions.

Compared to other similar projects, the robot shark is not equipped with propeller propulsion, making its body streamlined and reducing the risk of getting entangled in underwater obstacles. This, in turn, minimises potential threats it could pose to marine plants and animals.

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