SharkExplorer – Biomimicry Design

The SharkExplorer submarine is the result of a biomimicry study on sharks, aimed at taking inspiration from their impressive physical features, including their shape, skin, and hydrodynamics, which have earned them a reputation as swift and formidable predators of the oceans.

Shark skin has tiny scales called dermal denticles that reduce turbulence and increase speed by channeling water flow. When an object is moving underwater, water flowing at the surface of the object moves more slowly than water moving away from that said object. On smooth surfaces, this contrast of water speed surrounding the object causes the fast-moving water to break up into many turbulent vortices, which slows down the overall speed of an object moving underwater. Shark skin reduces this speed discrepancy, which in turn reduces turbulence, and allows greater speed with less effort. But not only that, because of its rough texture, shark skin discourages parasitic growth like algae and barnacles.

The SharkExplorer submarine is a fast and maneuverable vehicle designed for underwater exploration. Its exterior is constructed from a custom-made metal that incorporates shark-inspired technology, featuring numerous microscopic bumps. These bumps reduce water drag, enhancing the speed and fuel efficiency while also protecting algae and barnacles.