Valve-mediated flow control in salp-like locomotion

By using an axisymmetric model, we numerically investigate the underlying fluid dynamics of a salp-like swimmer consisting deformable shell, front valve, and back valve. Through coordinated shell inflation/deflation valve opening/closing, uni-directional flow is created inside body in wake, which provides thrust for forward motion. Our results prove that this method capable sustained locomotion. The internal successfully reduces energy loss due to dissipation body. Moreover, hydrodynamic interactions among different parts (i.e., two valves), expenditure one part may be recovered by others. In addition its benefit efficiency, phenomenon also implies valves passively activated harvesting spent so mechanical design can simplified. Parametric studies have been conducted determine effect stroke ratio. Furthermore, locomotion performance system has compared with squid-like refilling jet are opposite directions.