SC Connecticut News

The field of amphibious robotics, marine observation devices, and other water-based technologies has seen significant advancements in recent years. However, finding research facilities that can accommodate these developments has been a challenge. In response to this need, Yale University recently unveiled its "Tech Tank," a specialized facility designed for testing such advanced technologies under tightly controlled conditions.

Located in a former warehouse at Yale’s West Campus, the 20,000-gallon tank is equipped with a wave generator, a moveable mesh ramp, and climate control. The tank measures 40 feet long and 10 feet wide with a water depth of six feet.

Managed by the Yale School of Engineering & Applied Science, the tank is open to researchers across all fields both within and outside Yale. The Tech Tank represents the latest commitment by Yale Engineering to robotics research—an initiative that has led to doubling the number of faculty focusing on robotics at the school.

“The field of robotics is poised to impact nearly every facet of life, from health care to transportation, to manufacturing,” said Yale Engineering Dean Jeffrey Brock. “We need every resource that will allow us to prepare and optimize for all the ways that robots can assist humans, whether it’s on land or in water, indoor or outdoor. The Tech Tank is a big step toward achieving that goal.”

One researcher who has already utilized the Tech Tank is Rebecca Kramer-Bottiglio, the John J. Lee Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering & Materials Science. She developed an amphibious robotic turtle with working limbs capable of morphing from flippers to legs. This technology raises numerous questions about how and when a robot should change its shape and behavior when transitioning between environments and how environmental variations such as currents, wave energy, and water temperatures will affect its function.

“These are really challenging questions, and having this facility will allow us to answer them,” she said.

Other researchers also have plans for using the facility. Ian Abraham, assistant professor of mechanical engineering & materials science, said, “My group is developing autonomous systems, and the Tech Tank gives us the means to evaluate how they function in challenging aquatic domains that are hard to reproduce. This could uncover novel research directions and foster a new age of robotic systems that are robust and capable in extreme environments.”

The facility's designers and builders worked closely with Yale to ensure all specifications and logistics were met. The tank was designed with future adaptability in mind, allowing for changes as other collaborators and faculty come in to use it.

The Tech Tank was officially launched during a ribbon-cutting ceremony last week. A community open house will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, June 14. Visit techtank.yale.edu to reserve a spot.