A Review of The Status of The Technology of The Air Cushion Vehicle 710183

This paper reviews the current status of the technology of the air cushion vehicle (ACV). ACV economics are examined to suggest priorities for research and development, and to illustrate the effects of various design decisions. The basic features of and problems associated with flexible skirt systems are discussed. Problems in propulsion, structures, control, and other areas are reviewed, and topics for research are indicated. The paper concludes by suggesting that much more development work is required to bring the vehicle to a reasonable state of maturity. Operating costs, controllability, and propulsion are noted as requiring special attention. However, solutions to many of the problems seem possible so that there are grounds for optimism about the future of this vehicle.