Can't get this picture out of my mind

[Ernie]

Saw this on Facebook and it has stuck in my mind for the last week. Done some research on air boats and hydrofoils and have spent too much time thinking of how to build something like this obviously involving carbon fibre. May build a scale model to decide on some appropriate design changes. The phrase HOLD MY BEER always comes to mind when I look at it. What do you think?

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[JEBar]

while it doesn't seem like all that many years ago, I'd of been right there with you in trying to figure out how I could build one .... those days are long gone .... now days I'd be happy to bring out a chair and Coke to sit on the bank and watch ...

[Bake]

Not only will I hold your beer, but I'll bring a case and I call ''dibs'' on the second run . . .

[clovishound]

If nothing else, it would make a very popular video for Youtube.

"Man dies in trial run of homemade hydrofoil!" Watch til the end.

[Ernie]

No hydrofoil on the original but "Thanks for your support"

[John E Davies]

Video- What Happened To Giant Ekranoplans?

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=yVdH_dYlVB8

Seems like that would require some serious horsepower to get up onto the cushion, what kind of engine in the pic? Here you go…. 100 bhp, about 140 lbs with accessories, but no prop…

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https://seattle.craigslist.org/see/avo/ ... 93624.html

John Davies
Spokane WA

[markiver54]

Do not drive with long hair!

[Ernie]

Video- What Happened To Giant Ekranoplans?
Seems like that would require some serious horsepower to get up onto the cushion, what kind of engine in the pic? Here you go…. 100 bhp, about 140 lbs with accessories, but no prop
John Davies
Spokane WA

Excellent video! I have never heard of an Ekranoplan. Thanks for that.
After looking harder at the picture I think the canard on the front is to keep the bow in the water (at least that's what I would do) and the rear "wings" are for stability like an outrigger rather than provide lift. I can't imagine trying to control that once you lost contact with the water which is why I was reading some about hydrofoils. As I look harder and zoom in I can see there are some parts missing and areas that were repaired or reinforced including the prow or added on. Right now it just is something to puzzle out. As for the engine, I am envisioning something much smaller especially for first attempts. The picture gives the feeling of a craft of great speed which is part of initial appeal to me.

[John E Davies]

Ernie, those rear wings are indeed actual wings, or they were at one time. Those little "vanes" on top are vortex generators, for controlling airflow across the top of the airfoil at low speeds:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vortex_generator

If the intent was to simply stabilize the main hull like an ama on a polynesian canoe, (or a Hobie Adventure Island kayak) there would be no airfoil shape at all, just a thin set of strong arms to support the float(s).

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John Davies
Spokane WA

[Vaquero]

Do not drive with long hair!

I know that's right.

RP