Brainstorming: Problems To Be Solved

Propulsion
   Motor
     - electric - best option for situation, but a minor safety hazard
     - gas - too heavy and large for a small hovercraft
  Power source
     - battery - reliable, availible for use
     - solar - dependent on sun, not the best option
  Fan
     - blade size / weight - should be proportional to calculations
     - number - dependent on design
     - location - dependent on design

Steering:
  Fins
     - shutter - most commonly used
     - airfoil - used for r/c hovercraft
    Rotating (2 fans) - complicated construction
    Pivoting (1 fan) - complicated construction
    Stationary (2 fans) - multiple controls needed

Hull Design
   Cushion / Skirt
     - material: rubber,
     - shape: circular, enlongated, etc.
     - style: Jupe, Bag, or Segmented
   Base
     - material: plastic, rubber, metal
     - shape: shape of skirt, rectangular, circular
     - motor and fan mounting location: top, middle, side, etc.
   Plankton Net Mount
     - weight: N/A
     - location: top, middle, inside
     - size- N/A
     - motor needed: most likely

Past Solutions

Fitzgerald, Christopher, and Robert Wilson. Light Hovercraft Design. 3rd ed. Foley: The Hoverclub of America Inc., 1995. Print.


        This publication has given information and mathematical equations for the better understanding of the workings of hovercraft. It gives a presentation of all useable equipment, materials, and styles available. It shows hand drawings of skirts, motors, layouts, and fan systems. It makes comparisons between skirt types in different situations and terrain which is necessary to know to assign the correct skirt type. Information on appropriate engines and propellers is helpful to designing the propulsion system. Although it concerns mostly hovercraft intended for people, it helps in understanding how hovercrafts work in general.

Bibliography

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Fitzgerald, Christopher, and Robert Wilson. Light Hovercraft Design. 3rd ed.. Foley: The
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McLeavy, Roy. Hovercraft and Hydrofoils. New York: Acro Publishing Company, 1976.
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