  This research develops a novel sensor for aquatic robots inspired by the
whiskers of harbor seals. This sensor can detect the movement of water,
offering valuable data on speed, currents, barriers, and water disturbance. It
employs a mechano-magnetic system, separating the whisker-like drag part from
the electronic section, enhancing water resistance and durability. The flexible
design allows customizing the drag component's shape for different uses. The
study uses an analytical model to examine the sensor's capabilities, including
aspects such as shape, cross-sectional area, ratio, and immersion depth of the
whisker part. It also explores the effects of design on Vortex-Induced
Vibrations (VIVs), a key focus in the study of biological and robotic aquatic
whiskers. The sensor's practical use was tested on a remote-controlled boat,
showing its proficiency in estimating water flow speed. This development has
enormous potential to enhance navigation and perception for aquatic robots in
various applications.
