초록 ▼

A deep-V hull configuration for a surface effect ship (SES) that utilizes a cushion of pressurized air and improves the handling characteristics and efficiency of the vessel is provided by the present invention. The surface effect vessel has an air cushion recess for containing the pressurized cushi

A deep-V hull configuration for a surface effect ship (SES) that utilizes a cushion of pressurized air and improves the handling characteristics and efficiency of the vessel is provided by the present invention. The surface effect vessel has an air cushion recess for containing the pressurized cushion of air that has a sloped transition area on a bow side edge. Water redirecting structures on the deep-V hull direct a turbulent water flow toward blow through areas of the air cushion recess and, thus, prevent air from escaping from the air cushion recess. Multiple longitudinal and transverse air compartments are formed in the air cushion recess. Specialized separation portions provide for restricted air communication between the multiple air compartments. Air is introduced into the multiple air compartments at independently adjustable pressures to facilitate turning and to adjust for various operating conditions. Specialized drive shafts and prop configurations are further utilized to improve the functioning of the surface effect vessel. The present invention may be utilized for fast marine transportation as well as various military applications.

대표청구항 ▼

[ I claim:] [1.]1. A vessel for moving across a water's surface, said vessel comprising a V-shaped hull for supporting said vessel upon said water's surface wherein said v-shaped hull has a gas cavity that is adapted to receive pressurized gas from a gas blower, said V-shaped hull further comprising

[ I claim:] [1.]1. A vessel for moving across a water's surface, said vessel comprising a V-shaped hull for supporting said vessel upon said water's surface wherein said v-shaped hull has a gas cavity that is adapted to receive pressurized gas from a gas blower, said V-shaped hull further comprising:air restricting side hull portions adapted to reduce gas loss from said gas cavity wherein said air restricting side hull portions extend substantially parallel to said vessel's direction of movement along said V-shaped hull; andwater redirecting projections positioned on each side of said V-shaped hull wherein said water redirecting portions are adapted to direct a flow of water back toward a blow through area on said V-shaped hull such that a portion of said pressurized gas is prevented from venting from said gas cavity through said blow through area.