Comparative Analysis of the Navigation Performance of Manta Ray-Inspired Underwater Gliders

To compare the hydrodynamic performance of manta ray-inspired (MRLUG) and traditional underwater gliders (TUG), this study conducted a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis under equal hull volume conditions. The results revealed a significant advantage for the MRLUG, which achieved a maximum lift-to-drag ratio of 10.27 at a 10° angle of attack—nearly double the 5.12 value of the TUG. Further analysis indicated that the MRLUG's optimal glide angle is approximately 5.7°, contributing to a more stable flight posture. In a simulated mission profile with a 1000 m descent and 60,000 m horizontal range, the performance superiority of the MRLUG translated into practical benefits: it required about three fewer buoyancy adjustments and reduced overall energy consumption by nearly 50% compared to the TUG. These findings demonstrate that the bio-inspired design markedly enhances glide efficiency, extends endurance, and optimizes energy use, providing valuable insights for developing next-generation, long-range underwater gliders.