Design And Structural Analysis Of Hovercraft Using Cae Tools

Abstract

A hovercraft is a special type of vehicle that moves on a cushion of air. The lifting motion is controlled
by a fan or fans so that an air gap can be formed. Such separation between the bottom of the hovercraft and the
ground provides a motion platform, on which the friction force between the hovercraft and the ground reduces to a
very small amount. For this research project, there are two basic requirements. The first requirement is to design
and analysis of a physical model of a hovercraft. The second requirement is to control the motion of the constructed
hovercraft by the method, such as following a track, which consists of straight lines and curves. These systems are
done by modeling software’s like CatiaV5, and analysis is done by Ansys software. By utilizing the high air pressure
to lift the cargo, the presence of an air gap enables it to move the heavy cargo with much less force. Specifications
of a product are detailed in terms of the product size, speed range, weight and power consumption. The first design
kit was for a hovercraft model with one lifting fan and one propelling fan. The second design kit was for a
hovercraft model with one lifting fan and two propelling fans. We need to design these two hovercraft models, as
shown below. The lifting fan is placed in the central location of the hovercraft to provide the force required to lift
the hovercraft and form an air gap between the hovercraft and the ground. The two propelling fans are located at
the rear part of the hovercraft to generate the thrust action, which pushes the hovercraft forward.