This definitive text describes the theory and design both of Air Cushion Vehicles (ACV) and Surface Effect Ships (SES). It begins by introducing hovercraft types and their development and application throughout the world in the last three decades, before going on to discuss the theoretical aspects of ACV and SES craft covering their hovering performance, dynamic trim over calm water, resistance, stability, manoeuvrability, skirt configuration and analysis of forces acting on the skirts, ACV and SES seakeeping, and the methodology of scaling aerodynamic and hydrodynamic forces acting on the ACV/SES from model test data. The latter chapters describe a design methodology, including design criteria and standard methods for estimating craft performance, lift system design, skirt design, hull structure, propulsion systems and power unit selection. Much technical information, data, and references to further work on hovercraft and SES design is provided. The book will be a useful reference to engineers, technicians, teachers, students (both undergraduate and postgraduate), operators etc. who are involved in ACV/SES research, design, construction and operation. - Guides the reader on how to perform machinery and systems selection within ACV and SES overall design - For teachers, students (both at under- and post-graduate level), engineers and technicians involved in ACV/SES

This is the story of how private foreign enterprise in the form of Swedish Lloyd and Swedish America Line, who formed a British company called 'Hoverlloyd', galvanised the British Government in to supporting this new concept in transport through the formation of a British Rail subsidiary called 'Seaspeed'.

Growing worldwide populations increasingly require faster, safer, and more efficient transportation systems. These needs have led to a renewed interest in high-speed guided ground transportation technology, inspired considerable research, and instigated the development of better analytical and experimental tools. A very significant body of knowledge currently exists, but has primarily remained scattered throughout the literature. Vehicle Dynamics consolidates information from a wide spectrum of sources in the area of guided ground transportation. Each chapter provides a concise, thorough statement of the fundamental theory, followed by illustrative worked examples and exercises. The author also includes a variety of unsolved problems designed to amplify and extend the theory and provide problem-solving experience. The subject of guided ground transportation is vast, but this book brings together the core topics, providing in-depth treatments of topics ranging from system classification, analysis, and response to lading dynamics and rail, air cushion, and maglev systems. In doing so, Vehicle Dynamics offers a singular opportunity for readers to build the solid background needed for solving practical vehicle dynamics problems or pursuing more advanced or specialized studies.

They can rule the half-pipe, but can they survive this? Jimmy, David, and Henry are psyched. It's summer, school's out, and they are on their way to California, where they will be able to do some major skating. But on the plane, the unthinkable happens: They are hijacked by terrorists. As frightened as they may be, they take action and they succeed. Sort of. They may have beaten the terrorists, but now their plane has crashed in the middle of nowhere and all of a sudden, their summer vacation is about finding food, shelter, and a rescue. Can three normal twelve-year-old boys find a way to get by without fast food and skate parks?