Title: Modelling of steady motion of PAR vehicle on solid surfaces

Authors: Konstantin I. Matveev

Addresses: School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164-2920, USA

Abstract: Power augmented ram vehicle is a new type of fast amphibious transport suitable for operations in polar regions. A significant fraction of the vehicle weight is supported by a skirtless air cushion formed by air jets injected under the vehicle platform. A mathematical model is developed in this paper for steady forward motion of the craft on smooth solid surfaces, including a stability consideration. Calculation results show that a 130-ton vehicle of this kind can travel at speeds about 100 knots, while a lighter craft can achieve much higher speeds.

Keywords: amphibious transport; ground effect craft; power augmented ram; PAR vehicles; motion stability; aerodynamics; polar regions; mathematical modelling; steady forward motion; smooth solid surfaces; vehicle weight; air cushions.

DOI: 10.1504/IJAD.2010.031701

International Journal of Aerodynamics, 2010 Vol.1 No.1, pp.52 - 63

Published online: 21 Feb 2010 *

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