Importance

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Abstract

The lift augmented ground effect platform of the present invention is characterized by two pair of annular concentric air curtain nozzles and supercharge nozzles which direct respective jet streams downward and inward beneath the downwardly facing lifting surface of the platform. The concentric arrangement of the nozzles provides an inner or central supercharged air cushion surrounded by an inner central air curtain and an outer or peripheral air cushion surrounded by a peripheral air curtain. The lift augmented ground effect platform of the present invention provides an increased or 'large' augmentation of the forces acting to raise or lift the platform over that experienced in prior ground effect devices by directing an air flow stream over the downwardly curved peripheral surface of the platform. As the air flows downwardly along the curvature of the platform's peripheral surface, it creates a pressure differential which provides an additional force supporting the lifting of the platform. The airflow stream and the jet stream are provided by a propeller or rotating fan device mounted exterior of the platform. The exterior mounting provides two benefits: first, the propeller or fan stall due to the jet stream source is eliminated and second, smooth transition into free air (out of ground effect) is permitted where necessary to navigate rivers, canyons, and other types of physical barriers which may disrupt ground effect operation.

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First Claim