Ground effect machine
AssigneeDaniel M. McGill
InventorDaniel M. McGill
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A novel Ground Effect Machine capable of operating in low airflow and low air-pressure conditions. By using an air bladder, partially filed with liquid, in lieu of a skirt, the invention is able to reduce airflow, and consequently maximize the lift provided by air pressure pump, thus minimizing the amount of air pressure required. In addition, by alternating between positive and negative air pressure within a pressure chamber beneath the ground effect machine, the invention may lift and transport heavy loads or securely fasten the ground effect machine to the floor surface.
Claims23
A ground effect machine comprising:
- an air platform containing at least one pressure chamber beneath the air platform,
- an air bladder, partially filled by at least 20% liquid, contacting the edge of the pressure chamber, and
- an air valve connected to the pressure chamber.
A ground effect machine comprising:
- an air platform containing at least one pressure chamber beneath the air platform;
- a circular or tubular air bladder lining the edge of the pressure chamber, wherein the air bladder is partially filled by a combination of gas and liquid and the liquid partially fills at least 20% of the air bladder;
- an air injector connected to the pressure chamber, capable of pressurizing or depressurizing the pressure chamber, and
- a manifold within the pressure chamber that controls the rate of flow from the air injector.
A ground effect machine comprising:
- an air platform containing a plurality of pressure chambers beneath the air platform;
- an air bladder lining the edge of each pressure chamber, wherein the air bladder is partially filled by a combination of gas and liquid and the liquid partially fills at least 20% of the air bladder;
- an air injector connected to the pressure chamber, capable of pressurizing or depressurizing the pressure chamber, and
- an array of interchangeable manifold components controls the rate of flow from the air injector into and out of the pressure chambers.
A method of securing a ground effect machine comprising:
- creating a vacuum within a pressure chamber, the pressure chamber being surrounded with an air bladder partially filled by at least 20% liquid.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.