Calculating efficiency of a propulsion system in water

[jim150454]

Hello,

 

I am part of a small team designing a biologically-inspired underwater robot. The idea is that instead of having a traditional propeller design for the robot, it will instead propel itself in a manner similar to a cuttlefish (with fins on either side pushing it forward). However, before building a full prototype, I would like to know how well my robot will be able to propel itself in the water.

 

My question is this: Is there any way I can accurately predict the amount of force my robot will be able to produce, either through simulation software or calculations?

 

Any help or information on the subject will be greatly appreciated.

 

Thank you,

 

Mark A