A wireless aquatic robot was developed at the University of Wollongong in New South Wales. The device named WANDA (Wireless Aquatic Navigator for Detection and Analysis), which measures about twenty centimeters is powered by a flexible fin activated by artificial muscles in conductive polymers.

The use of polymers to reproduce more precisely the movements of the tail fin of the fish and improves the mobility and maneuverability of the robot. The conducting polymers are in addition light and have a low tension, and the parts are robust because they do not comprise elements articulated between them. A camera attached to the robot can transmit real-time video to a computer via a wireless connection. The operator can change the direction and speed of the robot which was programmed to swim and look for a previously defined color. When it detects anything, the robot can transmit instructions to the operator to swim toward the object.

The applications are numerous, such a system can be used to detect the level of pollution in rivers or reservoirs. The data have the advantage of not being punctual, but provide a comprehensive inventory and Wanda can go and find the exact source of pollution. The device could also be used to detect structural defects in submarine pipelines.

This project is a collaboration between the University of Wollongong, the Defense Science and Technology Organization and the University of Dublin city.