Hover craft how do I get it to work?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the design and construction of a hovercraft, focusing on the physics involved in achieving lift, acceleration, and structural support for the operator. Participants explore various methods and materials for creating a functional hovercraft, including propulsion systems and weight considerations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests using giant fans to achieve lift but expresses doubt about their effectiveness in supporting weight.
  • Another participant mentions that a hovercraft must counteract gravitational force and questions the feasibility of using fans alone.
  • There is a discussion about the weight of the hovercraft, with some arguing it must weigh more than the operator, while others question this assumption.
  • Participants propose using a cylinder for lift generation, noting that its length could enhance lift efficiency.
  • Concerns are raised about the need for a force detector to maintain constant force, with suggestions for software to calculate necessary adjustments in thrust.
  • Questions arise regarding the size and RPM of fans needed to generate sufficient lift and thrust.
  • Some participants express uncertainty about the terminology used, such as "force detector," and seek clarification on its function.
  • There are inquiries about the type of engine required to rotate the cylinder and how to achieve forward movement.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the methods for achieving lift and propulsion, with no consensus on the best approach or the necessary components for a successful hovercraft design.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge the complexity of the physics involved, including the need for calculations related to weight, thrust, and material properties. There are references to unresolved mathematical steps and assumptions about the hovercraft's design.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in hovercraft design, physics enthusiasts, and those exploring engineering concepts related to propulsion and lift generation may find this discussion beneficial.

  • #31
INDEED i was only kidding though it is my fault I didn't make it obvious...( universal PHD...) but if you go to this website http://www.mahopac.k12.ny.us/mhs/teachers/finnertyk/Hover%20Craft/The%20Theory/The%20Theory.htm then you will see that they built a skirt for the hovercraft.
 
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  • #32
MohammadK said:
INDEED i was only kidding though it is my fault I didn't make it obvious...( universal PHD...) but if you go to this website http://www.mahopac.k12.ny.us/mhs/teachers/finnertyk/Hover%20Craft/The%20Theory/The%20Theory.htm then you will see that they built a skirt for the hovercraft.
We got the joke about the PhD. Brewnog doesn't let on when he's kidding either. :rolleyes:
I misunderstood what you were talking about until you provided that link. I took the liberty of sketching up what I think is the answer you're looking for. The skirt is a flexible bag surrounding the plenum area. If you're making a really small circular jobbie, you could glue a bunch of bike tire tubes together in a stack and partially inflate them. Just tilt it to let more air out of one side when you want to move. I'll pop back in here once in a while to see how you're doing. Good luck.
http://img143.echo.cx/my.php?image=simplehover2vp.jpg :smile:
 
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  • #33
hovercraft

mo...


A quick and dirty HC can be built in minutes by Using a gas powered yard blower mounted atop an over inflated innertube. By taking a little more time and to add rigidity, you can fiberglass the 'ducted' part, center,by laying the glass directly onto the innertube and adding struts top support engine..
My friend built one like this for Gallager the comedian. Gallager used this mini HC as a hockey puc for an electric horse that Brian built as well.

frank
 
  • #34
MR. P said:
A quick and dirty HC can be built in minutes by Using a gas powered yard blower mounted atop an over inflated innertube.
The main problem with that is that the plenum area is extremely small, resulting in very little lift. Keep in mind that the lift is pressure times plenum area.
I wouldn't mind learning more about that electric horse. It sounds intriguing.
 
  • #35
hi! can someone send me some detailed information(some 20-30 pages) about thrust vectoring. iam student in aeronautical engg. i need it for my seminar purpose.
my mail id is: [deleted]
 
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  • #36
dhanyaprakash said:
hi! can someone send me some detailed information(some 20-30 pages) about thrust vectoring. iam student in aeronautical engg. i need it for my seminar purpose.
my mail id is: [deleted]
No. That's not how we do things here.
 
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