Design of bionic water jet thruster with double-chamber driven by electromagnetic force

Abstract

In response to the limitations of the single-chamber water jet thruster used in underwater vehicles mimicked by natural cephalopods, a novel approach involving a double-chamber water jet thruster has been proposed. This thruster utilizes electromagnetic force to manipulate the diaphragm, thereby altering the volume of the upper and lower chambers to achieve water jet propulsion. Experimental investigations were conducted to determine the tensile length-force characteristics of the diaphragm made of Agileus30. Subsequently, key parameters of essential propulsion components, such as solenoid coils, electromagnets, and currents, were established based on the tensile length-force curve, and the propulsion capabilities of the system were evaluated through theoretical analysis. Theoretical assessments indicate that the system does not produce reverse thrust regardless of whether the coil moves up or down. Further experimental results demonstrate that the maximum peak propulsion force generated by the dual-chamber water jet thruster within a 3-s cycle is 0.253 N.