Title:
Surface Effect Boat by Levitek

Description:
The Surface Effect Boat consists of a catamaran hull with inflatable sidewalls, an enclosed front and back, a hovercraft type of skirt at the front and a modified air seal in the back. This creates a hollow chamber under the deck that can be pressurized using the fan air drive system. The resulting air pocket underneath can lift the craft easily, reducing the water draft of the catamaran sidewall pontoons and creating a hover effect. This effect lowers the water drag significantly, making it possible to move over very shallow water without the danger of running aground. Because the craft has constant contact with the water by the sidewalls, it is easy to maintain directional control and execute sharp turns without the danger of sliding and losing directional control. On ice and snow, the sidewalls perform like a sled and do not require the air cushion effect. To ensure safe operation of the craft, the puncture resistant skin for the inflatables was developed. The skin gives the craft the ability to move over various terrains without damage. Unlike any other boat on the market, the Surface Effect Boat is fully capable of operating on water, ice and broken ice, all with the same ease of directional control and stopping ability and without the possibility of hull damage in high speed operation. This unique vehicle is designed for year round use to allow transport of cargo or people at speeds of 60mph over flat terrain including mud, swamps, water ice or snow. S.E.B. features a broad range of application as an alternative to conventional water airboat and hovercraft vehicles. The Surface Effect Boats have participated in year round shallow water transportation, ice and flood rescue (Red River Floods, 1997.) The craft features air cushion versatility combined with superb stability and directional control, with low maintenance and a relatively short training time. Neither the hovercraft nor airboat achieves these combined features.

Author:
pankal16051952

Tags:
Amphibious, Arctic, Boat, Cool, Craft, Effect, Hovercraft, Ice, Multi, Rescue, Surface, Transportation, Vehicle, Water,