Proof of Concept and Testing of Treadle-Powered Fin Propulsion Boat


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Creator/Artist: Nirmal P J

Category: Product Design

Document: Design Research

Batch: 2017-2019

Source: India,   IDC IIT Bombay

Period:  2009-2018

Medium: Report pdf

Supervisor: Prof. Vijay P. Bapat


Detailed Description

In this research paper we talk about the design and fabrication of a boat propulsion inspired by the biomechanics of a caudal fin of a fish. Various mechanisms and forms of generation have been explored to finally create a 1:1 scale proof of concept to test the functioning of the design. Experiments have been conducted to check the performance of the aquatic propulsion system and how it can be further improved. The aim was to develop a simple and efficient system inspired by a biological system which has an edge over the conventional screw propulsion.