Single-Fan Hovercraft Steering with Independent Thrust Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Single-engine hovercrafts face challenges in maintaining directional control and reducing propulsion thrust without increasing complexity or noise, as existing solutions often require multiple motors or fans, leading to high production costs and noise.
Innovation Solution
A control system with a single propulsion fan and duct equipped with swivel side flaps and directional rudders, allowing symmetric regulation of propulsion thrust and uninterrupted directional control by pivoting side flaps without closing directional rudders, ensuring undisturbed air flow to the air-cushion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two motors and two propulsion fans are used to regulate power distribution between thrust and air-cushion, then the distribution control is improved, but the device complexity and production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The single propulsion fan's airflow is segmented into two functional streams: one directed toward the front for thrust generation and another directed downward for air-cushion generation. This is achieved through internal duct geometry and flow distribution channels within the single fan assembly, eliminating the need for multiple fans while maintaining adaptable power distribution between thrust and lift functions
Solution Approach 2:
The single propulsion fan performs multiple functions simultaneously: it generates both the thrust for forward motion and the air-cushion for levitation. The fan is coupled with a multi-functional duct system that distributes airflow to different outlets (front thrust outlet and downward air-cushion outlet), allowing one component to replace what traditionally required two separate motors and fans
2Reliability
If a separate fan is used to pump the air-cushion, then the air-cushion generation is improved, but the noise level increases due to high fan speed
Solution Approach 1:
The air-cushion generation function is merged with the propulsion fan operation. The same single fan that generates thrust also provides air-cushion by directing a portion of its airflow downward through the duct system. This eliminates the need for a separate high-speed air-cushion fan, thereby reducing noise while maintaining reliable air-cushion generation
Solution Approach 2:
The propulsion fan serves dual purposes: generating forward thrust and maintaining the air-cushion. By making the fan multi-functional, the system avoids adding a dedicated air-cushion fan that would operate at high speeds and generate excessive noise, thus achieving reliable air-cushion generation in a quieter manner
3Power
If swivel side flaps are opened to reduce propulsion thrust, then the thrust control is improved, but the directional control capability may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The directional control function is segmented from the thrust reduction mechanism. Swivel side flaps are used exclusively for thrust regulation by redirecting airflow, while separate directional rudders mounted in the duct handle directional control. This segmentation allows independent operation of thrust control and directional control systems, preventing interference between the two functions
Solution Approach 2:
Directional rudders act as intermediary elements that maintain directional control capability even when thrust is reduced by opening swivel side flaps. The rudders are positioned downstream in the duct where they can effectively steer the airflow and control the hovercraft's direction independent of the thrust level being generated by the main fan
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances directional control by 50% during forward flight and reduces propulsion thrust effectively, preventing dangerous acceleration while maintaining air-cushion stability and control, particularly in adverse conditions like flying on ice with wind.
Implementation Method 1
the propulsion fan rotates inside the duct mounted in the hull of the hovercraft and the pocket distributes the airflow into the thrust generating forward motion and the airflow into the hovercraft's apron, generating the air-cushion
Implementation Method 2
downstream in the duct behind the propulsion fan and parallel to the ground at least one bottom plate and at least one top plate are located, which plates constitute a pivot mounting for directional rudders, swivel side flaps and horizontal rudders
Implementation Method 3
at least three directional rudders located downstream at the end in the duct operate without interruption in their full range of angular position
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a control system of a hovercraft comprising one engine and one propulsion fan (1) enclosed in a duct (2) in which swivel side flaps (3) are located, said control system being characterized in that downstream the duct (2) there are at least three rudders (5), each of the rudders (5) operating in the full range of angular position, regardless of the position of the swivel side flaps (3). Furthermore, the invention relates to a control method of said hovercraft.