Numerical simulation of near-field target perception in autonomous underwater helicopters inspired by a biomimetic lateral line

The fish lateral line system enables ‘remote touch’ sensing, offering inspiration for near-field perception in autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). However, the mechanisms by which system integration influences perception performance remain insufficiently understood. In this study, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations are conducted to analyse the hydrodynamic characteristics of oscillating targets and the corresponding responses of a biomimetic lateral line system. A complementary potential flow model is employed to validate the numerical accuracy. The analysis systematically examines the effects of target parameters and vehicle pitch angles on flow field evolution and spatial pressure gradient distributions. Results show that oscillatory sources generate alternating positive–negative pressure lobes along the axial direction, with amplitudes decaying exponentially with distance. The pressure distribution and peak location are strongly affected by vehicle pitch angle, vibration phase, and spatial separation, whereas vibration frequency, amplitude, and target radius primarily determine the peak magnitude. These findings enhance the mechanistic understanding of near-field pressure dynamics and provide theoretical guidance for the design and optimisation of biomimetic lateral line sensing systems.