The Development of Hovercraft Design with a Horizontal Propulsion System

Abstract

Over the centuries there were many efforts to reduce the element of drag between moving vehicles. A hovercraft is a relatively new means of transportation. The concept of the hovercraft was born when engineers developed an experimental design to reduce the drag force of a vessel. The revolutionary idea was to use a cushion of air between the boat and the water to reduce the drag force. The aim of this project was to design and model a hovercraft with a horizontal propulsion system. Usually, a hovercraft is designed to be used with a vertical propulsion system to produce lift and thrust forces. This model can perform the basic functions of a hovercraft and travel on water and land surfaces. It produces a reasonable air cushion to lift its body and carry some loads, and at the same time it produces a suitable thrust to move inland operation. The objectives of this project are to develop a basic hovercraft model with a horizontal propulsion system. Moreover, a well-functioning hovercraft model needs to be designed in consideration of the horizontal propulsion system to reduce drag force, minimize the lift force and improve the trust force. The expected outcome for this project is a model of a hovercraft that works by producing lift and thrust.