The robot fish can swim at a depth of 15m without being detected

SoFi - the robot fish can dive 15 meters deep within 40 minutes and can swim in three different directions and be safe with other marine species.

According to a recent report, a robot fish can open up secrets about life under the sea - where researchers cannot approach themselves. Scientists from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have created a robot fish called SoFi , which has been tested in Fiji. SoFi can swim continuously at a depth of more than 15m during 40 minutes.

In the Journal of Robotics, the researchers shared that the robot fish technology can help scientists learn more about the species that humans are hard to reach and research.

MIT researchers have developed a robot fish that can swim with the real thing and take pictures of life in the sea - (Photo: Reuters).

When tested at Fiji's Rainbow Reef, SoFi handled ocean currents while capturing high-resolution images using a fisheye lens.

Researchers say the SoFi is equipped with a undulating tail and is capable of controlling buoyancy. This robot fish can swim in a straight line, go up or dive.

The team also used a waterproof controller and developed a customized audio communication system, allowing them to change SoFi's speed and specific motion movements. Soft robots can swim right next to real fish, which brings great benefits to scientists.

MIT scientist Robert Katzschmann said: 'As far as we know, this is the first robot fish that can swim in three directions for a long time. We are very happy if technology innovations can bring marine life closer to people. '

The researchers added: 'By changing flow patterns and hydraulic systems, SoFi can perform different tail movements with corresponding swimming speeds, averaging about half the length. body every second ".

SoFi's back section includes plastic and rubber, many parts are 3D printed. Between the ends of the head are electronic devices.

SoFi is controlled by the Nintendo Supper waterproof controller.This robot fish can swim in many directions - (Photo of MIT CSAIL).

Researchers have filled SoFi's head with mineral oil to reduce the risk of machine damage. They choose mineral oil because it is uncompressed liquid when changing pressure.

Professor Cecilia Laschi said: 'Researchers show us an achievement in engineering manufacturing, allowing robots to move underwater without ties. A robot fish like this can help us discover coral reefs more easily because it is safe for other organisms and also accepted by them. '

Electronic devices are all in SoFi's head.The team is responsible for SoFi's filling technology with mineral oil to reduce the risk of water leakage that damages electronic devices - (Photo: REUTERS).

According to the report, one of the most difficult obstacles researchers face is to help SoFi move at different depths. SoFi has two fins to adjust the slope of the fish body so that the robot can move up or down. When moving vertically, the float controller will work by compressing or decompressing air.

SoFi was created for the purpose of making other organisms less affected, so researchers tried to design the quietest engines possible.

MIT professor Daniela Rus said: 'Robots have the ability to observe and interact with marine creatures. This fish does not seem to bother other fish. Most robots often avoid collisions, leading to ineffective movement. SoFi is a soft-bodied robot so it can not only survive after a collision but can also move very effectively. "

Structure of SoFi - (Photo: REUTERS).

Researchers will continue to improve SoFi, complete tail designs and the body helps this robot fish swim faster.

Professor Rus said: 'We consider SoFi as the first step to develop an underwater observation system. This is a potential for developing a range of new tools for exploring the ocean and opening up the mysteries in the sea. '