This study explores the development of an artificial lateral line system using electroactive polymer (EAP) sensors, specifically, ionic polymer-metal composites (IPMCs) and polymer gels. A TPU-based canal structure was 3D printed with two embedded surface TPU-DBA polymer gel sensors at each pore entrance, enabling the detection of hydrodynamic pressure changes in the surrounding fluid environment. Additionally, a single IPMC sensor enclosed within a PDMS cupula-like structure was placed in the center of the canal, emulating the cilium structure of the lateral line by operating as a bending mechanoelectrical transducer. The results validate the efficacy of the proposed artificial lateral line model.
