Man powered Hovercraft Project
Following the presentations, and before lunch, a man powered hovercraft was demonstrated outside the hanger.
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This was a fascinating unit made from blue foam and carbon fibre giving a weight of just 40 lbs (18.1Kg).
The one and only 'passenger' pedaled a bike chain drive system geared through 4:1 gears twice to drive a four bladed fan to provide lift. The structure was covered in rip stop nylon which also formed an integrated bag skirt.
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Considering the wind the unit appeared to lift easily and was pushed around by the two helpers with ease.
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The next stage is to add a rudders and a thrust unit driven from the current drive system. The 'passenger' , following about 15 mins activity, did not appear to have raised a sweat nor was he out of breath.
A superb achievement and well worth seeing.
