Seacoaster trials
The Seacoaster combines the high efficiencies of Surface Effect Ships (SES) with simple catamaran hull construction. It has blower pressurized air cushions that support some 80-90 percent of displacement and hence the high efficiencies. However, unlike the SES, there are no expensive and high maintenance flexible seals. Each catamaran sidehull has a simple recess molded or built into its underside. Powered blowers direct pressurized air into such recesses and thereby create lifting air cushions. There are no flexible seals of any kind and there is no air cushion between the sidehulls. Extensive towed model tests were conducted that showed the viability of the invention. The video shows the 65 foot open demonstrator Seacoaster underway at approximately 40 mph.
- Research Organization:
- Air Ride Craft, Inc., Miami, FL (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Washington, DC (United States)
- DOE Contract Number:
- FG01-96EE15667
- OSTI ID:
- 359459
- Report Number(s):
- DOE/EE/15667--T1-VC; ON: DE98007494
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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