Patent ID: 7398740
Filing Date: 2008-07-15
Classification: B60V

Abstract:
1. A multi-mission/purpose ground-effect craft derived from a common modular platform, the craft having a body with a forward end and aft end, the craft comprising: a hull having a top surface and bottom surface, and an outer perimeter defined by a forward nose portion, a leftside, rightside and aft side; an inner floor structure adapted to be installed over the hull; a body having an outside surface, inside surface, forward body portion, aft body portion, left body side, right body side and roof portion, the body adapted to be attached to at least one of the top surface of the hull and the inner floor structure, such that a interior compartment is formed thereinside; a tail wing assembly adapted to be attached to the aft end of the body; a forward nose cowl adapted to be attached to at least one of the forward nose portion of the hull and the forward body portion of the body; a windshield integrated into the forward end of the body; at least one door assembly integrated into the left or right body side; at least one window assembly integrated into the left or right body side; a propulsion system integrated within the aft end of the body; and a skirt attached and draped from the outer perimeter of the hull; a cylindrically-shaped duct with a lift fan assembly integrated therein for generating a hovering ground effect between the bottom surface of the hull, the skirt and at least one of land or a water body; and a left wing attached to the left body side and a right wing attached to the right body side, each wing having an upper surface, lower surface, leading edge, trailing edge, distal wing tip and inboard attachment interface side, each wing further including a hinge generally perpendicular transverse to the length of the wingspan, wherein the wing is adapted to folded in an upright position or deployed position.