AIR INDUCTION SYSTEM FOR MARINE VESSEL

Unmet Need: Efficient high-speed hull configurations and structures

The demand for high-speed littoral vessels for military and commercial use continues to build. Shallow broad-beam hulls continue to be desirable for coastal shipping capacity and port logistics in applications such as automobile ferries, but require high power propulsion and offer a limited range. Alternatives such as hydrofoils and wave-piercing hull forms each have recognized shortcomings, including limited payloads and low-speed operations.

The Technology: Air induction system for marine vessel hulls

A system and vessels are presented which introduce air under pressure into under-hull cavities, converting the kinetic energy of water flowing under the vessel in a controlled manner to compress air or gas and release the air or gas to reduce hydrodynamic drag and to maintain an equilibrium pressure to provide buoyancy.