In a recent breakthrough in biomimetic robotics, researchers in China have developed a jellyfish-inspired “underwater phantom” designed for stealth operations beneath the surface. 

Created by a team led by Tao Kai at the School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering of Northwestern Polytechnical University in Xi’an, Shaanxi province, the transparent robot mimics the movements and appearance of a real jellyfish. Its soft, umbrella-shaped body and fluid propulsion system allow it to glide quietly through the water, making it nearly undetectable to sensors or the human eye. 

The device is intended for intelligent underwater detection, real-time environmental monitoring, and potentially covert reconnaissance missions worldwide.

New stealth for deep-sea surveillance

Engineered for stealth and precision, China’s new jellyfish-inspired robot combines low energy use, near-silent movement, and a lifelike design to excel in deep-sea monitoring and structural inspection. Project leader Tao Kai said the robot’s capabilities make it ideal for observing delicate marine ecosystems or conducting covert underwater missions. 

Built from a specially developed hydrogel electrode material, the transparent device features an umbrella-shaped body with flexible tentacles that replicate the motion of real jellyfish. Measuring just 4.7 inches in diameter and weighing two ounces, the compact robot offers a new model for sustainable and silent ocean exploration, the South China Morning Post writes.

Powered by an electrostatic hydraulic actuator, the jellyfish-inspired robot propels itself through the water by replicating the way real jellyfish contract and relax their muscles in rhythmic pulses. This actuator functions much like neural signals in living organisms, enabling smooth, organic movement without the noise or vibration typical of traditional propulsion systems. 

Consuming only 28.5 milliwatts of power, the robot generates virtually no physical or acoustic disturbance, allowing it to remain undetected even in sensitive marine environments.

AI-powered jellyfish robot can identify underwater targets autonomously

Fitted with a tiny camera and an onboard AI processing chip, the jellyfish-like robot can detect and identify underwater targets with high precision using machine learning. This combination of vision and intelligence enables it to navigate complex aquatic environments autonomously, capturing data and imagery in real time. 

The bionic jellyfish drew national attention in August when it appeared on a CCTV science program, showcased alongside other bioinspired creations such as a robotic bird, a mechanical locust, a gecko robot, and a robotic fish – showcasing China’s growing focus on merging biology with advanced robotics.

In the televised demonstration, Tao highlighted the robot’s capabilities, showing how it could hover steadily in moving water and identify objects such as the university’s emblem and clownfish. The presentation illustrated how a nature-inspired design, paired with intelligent control, allows the robot to sense its environment and recognize targets with reasonable accuracy, offering a glimpse into the potential of biomimetic robotics in underwater applications.

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