On this page we include links to papers detailing major hovercraft development programmes, and economics
Raymond L Wheeler, Technical Director and Chief Engineer
British Hovercraft Corporation SP4404, September 1979
Overview
This briefing paper prepared by Ray Wheeler was issued by BHC directly. The paper provides a detailed overview of the SR.N4 development programme through Mk1 to Mk3. Detailed information is presented on the route evaluation for cross channel hovercraft ferry operations, development of the sizing, general arrangement, power layout and the skirt geometry.
It may be noted that BHC’s development of a bag and segment skirt that has a deeper bag at the bow and tapered to the stern was an integral part of the Mk1 to Mk3 journey.
Performance data taken from craft in service compared to initial predictions is presented.
It may be noted that the SR.N4 hovercraft started operations from Dover in Summer 1968 and continued until October 2000, a major achievement for any ferry!
Design, Development and Trials of the AP1-88 Hovercraft
R L Wheeler
Royal Institution of Naval Architects, London, April 12, 1984
Ray Wheeler gives a detailed overview of the development and trials programme for the AP-1-88 hovercraft. This was a complete break with the SR.N series of craft using aircraft technology. The AP1-88 has a welded aluminium hull, diesel engine power, ducted propellers for propulsion and a further development of the tapered bag skirt geometry that had been found beneficial on the SR.N6 Mk6.
The programme of development is described, main characteristics of the design, and the findings for craft actual speed in a seaway compared with model testing. Measurements of noise profile are also given, development of the power train, and development of the propeller duct profile to obtain maximum induced thrust
What Price Hovercraft – Trends in first cost of overwater passenger transport
Robert L Trillo
Reprint from ‘Air Cushion Vehicles’ supplement to Flight International, 22August and 26 September 1963
Overview
Robert Trillo presents his analysis of potential first cost of Hovercraft compared with other forms of transport including Jet aircraft, ferries and ocean liners. His intent was to show the likely trends of first cost for hovercraft compared with the other forms of transport, related to passenger capacity and speed.
At this early date hovercraft were based on aircraft technology, both for structure, outfitting, powering and transmission systems. He suggested that smaller hovercraft may have application in niche markets and that larger craft may compete with ferries. He suggested that the development of flexible skirts would be important in improving the economy for peripheral jet hovercraft.
Alan E Bingham
Vickers Armstrong (Engineers) Ltd, Southampton
Royal Institution of Naval Architects Paper No 6, March 25th 1964
Overview
Alan Bingham presents an analysis of potential ferry routes in the English Channel, and in the Kattegat and Baltic Sea focussed on the existing market at that time and the potential for application of high-speed air cushion vehicles, shortening journey times and offering greater comfort than normal ferries.
It is projected that for typical routes a hovercraft carrying at least 500 passengers and their luggage would be necessary for economical service.
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