Chinese researchers have developed a fully transparent, jellyfish-shaped bionic robot capable of stealthy underwater observation and data collection — a breakthrough that highlights China’s rapid progress in biomimetic robotics and marine technology.
Nature-Inspired Transparent Design
Created by Tao Kai’s team at Northwestern Polytechnical University in Xi’an, the robot mimics the structure and movement of real jellyfish. Made from a hydrogel electrode material, it achieves full transparency underwater, rendering it nearly invisible. With a diameter of 120 mm and weight of 56 grams, the device blends seamlessly into aquatic environments for unobtrusive monitoring.
Low Power, Silent Operation
The robot moves through an electrostatic hydraulic actuator, replicating the muscle contractions of real jellyfish. Consuming just 28.5 milliwatts of power, it operates almost silently — ideal for environmental observation, ecosystem research, and deep-sea reconnaissance without disturbing marine life.
AI-Powered Underwater Intelligence
Equipped with an AI chip and micro-camera module, the bionic jellyfish identifies underwater objects using machine learning algorithms. Demonstrations showed it recognising fish species and symbols, maintaining stability even in moving water.
Exam-Oriented Facts
- Developed by Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an
- Weighs 56 grams, operates on 5 milliwatts
- Movement via electrostatic hydraulic actuator
- Integrated AI and camera for object detection
Strategic Leap in Bioinspired Robotics
This innovation is part of China’s broader push into bioinspired robotic systems — following earlier creations like robotic birds, geckos, and fish. The jellyfish robot’s transparency, intelligence, and efficiency mark a major advance in stealth robotics, positioning China at the forefront of next-generation marine research and surveillance technologies.
