INTERACTIVE HERITAGE / 1950s–1960s
Explore the engineering behind a machine that travels on a cushion of pressurised air.
EQUATIONS & LIMITATIONS
Genuine principle: the net upward force on the cushion’s effective plan area is approximately the pressure difference multiplied by that area: F = Δp A. For stationary levitation, this approaches mg. A running fan must also replace escaping air.
F = Δp A
mg
Educational geometry: the model treats the cushion as an ellipse 6.6 m wide and 7.5 m long; these are chosen teaching dimensions, not historical measurements. The inlet has an assumed diameter of 1.8 m.
Simplified equations: A = π(w/2)(l/2); Q = π(D/2)²v; P = ΔpQ/η; p_required = mg/A. The fan-power expression is a pressure-flow illustration, not a full engine-performance prediction. The hover margin is an ideal static comparison, not a guarantee of stable flight.
A = π(w/2)(l/2)
Q = π(D/2)²v
P = ΔpQ/η
p_required = mg/A
Historical framing: the silhouette combines several principles demonstrated by British research in the mid-20th century. The late flexible-skirt configuration is intentionally not presented as the original 1959 prototype. Individual component placements, styling, materials and sizes are illustrative.
Illustrative reconstruction, not an official model and not affiliated with any institution, company or manufacturer.