In order to determine problems and make new advances in additions to the hovercraft, we usually plan test runs. We do these test runs in the street, in driveways, and, for long distance runs, in abandoned parking lots.
We are able to disassemble most of the hovercraft, leaving only the wood and tarp part intact, so that we are able to move it to different locations via car. In roughly fifteen minutes, we can assemble it onsite by connecting the cage, the sides, the prop, and the blowers to the hovercraft using bolts, nuts, and braces. We make modifications onsite to the hovercraft's tarp holes and our sitting postion so that the hovercraft can reach its maximum hovering capactiy. This enables us to have the least amount of resistance with the ground. The hovercraft does not usually need to be refueled, even after hours of test runs, saving money and time.
We have learned a great many things and have made modifications and additions to the hovercraft numerous times because of these critical test runs. For example, we learned that we needed a dual-blower braking system in order to stop the hovercraft when moving at medium to high speeds. We have also come to realize the inefficiency and danger of our current braking system and are working on a revolutionary way of slowing and stopping the hovercraft. In what we named the "Final Run" of the first propeller, we realized our current protection surrounding the prop was insufficient in a nightmarish way. During our fastest run to date , the hand-held engine throttle control lever was sucked into the prop and skyrocketed away from the hovercraft. That was the least of our problems. The prop was cracked and was never to be used again. After many days, we, the hover team, decided that instead of admitting defeat and giving up on our endeavour, we would buy another replica of the first prop.
Taking tremendous precautions this time around, we fitted the cage with chickenwire encompassing the entire front of the cage, strengthened the cage with tie ons, PVC cement, and more PVC(of course), and created a permanent resting point for the engine throttle control lever. Since then there have been no more significant problems with the prop's integrity because of flying debris or flying hovercraft parts.
Thus, riding the hovercraft is usually not just for excitement, but a means for us to keep updating it with new technology and additions to make it function better, safer, and with more style. |
