Air cushion vehicle
US4848501A · kind A · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 7, 1987 |
| Grant date | Jul 18, 1989 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 7, 2007 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60V1/16
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A small sized air cushion vehicle includes a hull having a planar bottom surface with an upstanding lower flange disposed and extending upwardly at an angle of between 24.degree. and 30.degree. with respect to the planar bottom surface of the hull. A hollow plenum extends through the periphery of the hull. Apertures are formed in the upstanding lower flange of the hull and disposed in fluid flow communication with corresponding apertures in a plurality of inflatable members which are attached to the flange of the hull. Each inflatable member includes a downwardly extending aperture which directs air flow from the hollow plenum in the hull through each of the inflatable members to lift the vehicle a short distance above an underlying surface as well as providing forward or sideways propulsion. A steering mechanism is mounted rearward of the fluid propulsion source to control the direction of movement the vehicle. The occupant seating area includes a seat longitudinally movable and lockable within the vehicle for occupant comfort as well as for forward positioning during lift-off to control weight distribution in the hovercraft.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.