Improvements in or relating to a Guide Way for Hovercraft.

摘要

1,178,386. Track for hovercraft. P. H. TREADGOLD. 22 Sept., 1967 [5 July, 1966], No. 30179/66. Heading B7L. A track for guiding a hovercraft 4 within a range of predetermined dimensions, comprises a shallow groove-like track in, on or above the ground, having a flat base 1 and sides 2, 3, each of a width substantially the same as that of the base 1, and inclined thereto at an angle a= sin-SP1/SP 1/9. The base increases in width from one end to the other but the width of the sides remains constant. The base 1 at its narrowest point is wider than the largest hovercraft expected to use the track. The latter may be provided by a concrete layer set into the ground or formed by blocks placed on the ground. When the hovercraft weighing, e.g., 10 tons is subjected to the force of a side wind having a velocity not greater than a predetermined maximum, e.g. 60 m.p.h., the base of the hovercraft can ride on to the appropriate side 2 or 3 so as to be supported partially on the base 1 and the side 2 or 3. A restoring force due to the weight of the hovercraft opposes the lateral force of the wind and maintains the hovercraft in the guide way.