Kinematic and vortical wake patterns of rapidly maneuvering fish and flapping foils

Abstract

This project examines the choreography of high speed turns performed by Danio aequipinnatus, giant danio, with the goal of understanding the motions that allow this species to perform its highly efficient maneuvering. Observations of the turns were made using high-speed video to determine general characteristics which may then be applied to biomimetic propulsion systems in the future. Additionally, qualitative fluorescent dye visualizations were conducted using a single flap of a flapping foil in order to gain a first order understanding of the vortex formation in a simple biomimetic device.