Design and Analysis of an Energy-Efficient Hovercraft

Abstract

This study discusses the design and analysis of an electric-powered hovercraft with an emphasis on safety and operability. Beginning with a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis, the optimal, energy-efficient shape for the hovercraft is determined based on air drag force and trajectories flow around the hovercraft’s body. On the basis of the CFD analysis results, a workable 3D model is developed in Solidworks. Using several formulas to calculate the required motor power and characteristics for both the lift and propulsion motors, the system topology and component selection for a proposed small-scale model are specified. In addition to CFD analyses, mechanical analyses are performed to ensure that the various components of the hovercraft can withstand the forces acting on them, these studies are based on Solidwork’s static analyses. Various electronic components, BLDC motors, motor drivers, servo motor, and sensors are connected to the Raspberry Pi (RPi), which serves as the hovercraft's primary controller. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the design and analysis of the electric-powered hovercraft, including the selection of key components and the results of CFD and mechanical analyses to ensure the safety and operability of the hovercraft. Discussed methods in this article can be used for further studies on the energy efficiency of hovercrafts.