Self-powered micro-sensors to improve control and maneuvering of a robotic stingray

Increased demand for high-efficiency underwater vehicles has led to significant research focusing on development of biologically inspired underwater vehicle systems. In the past, many bio-inspired robotic vehicles are developed such as fish, stingray, seal, and octopus. However, development of efficient sensing system for these robots has not gained the desired momentum. In this paper, to improve the situational awareness of a robotic stingray, we developed self-powered piezoelectric MEMS pressure sensor for use on streamline bodies of underwater vehicles. This paper outlines the biological inspiration behind the development of fish-like MEMS pressure sensor, as well as demonstrates the utility of the sensors in harsh and real-time applications on a robotic stingray.