I am passionately crafting an extraordinary ultralight flying boat – exactly as it sounds: a boat that can fly. It's undeniably unconventional, but history has seen a few of these remarkable marvels. Nonetheless, my creation sets a new standard, as it boasts an astonishing lightness that allows it to be easily transported on a boat trailer.
Previous versions may have existed, but they were always larger and heavier, often relying on motorcycle engines. The idea of building such a craft excited me, and I delved into thorough research. During my exploration, I discovered that there were smaller versions of such crafts back in the 70s and 80s. Knowing that they were able to construct and make them work successfully, I became determined to figure out how they achieved it.
By drawing inspiration from these earlier projects and leveraging the knowledge of their designs, I am confident that I can build my own.
The same resources you would need to operate a jet ski or small boat. It can be transported in a trailer for small boats. It can be stored in your garage. It can be lifted and stored by the same equipment you would use to lift or store a small boat or jet ski.
The Spinner boasts an impressively quiet operation. In comparison to fast powerboats and specially to hovercraft, our watercraft is notably less noisy. Thanks to its electric motor, 3-blade propeller, and absence of exhaust, tranquility reigns as one of its hallmark features.
While a discernible sound may emanate from the propeller, we've taken measures to mitigate it. The design incorporates a propeller at lower RPMs ensuring the blade tips remain below the speed of sound. An odd number of blades improves harmonics. The result? A harmonious blend of performance and serenity.
Hovercraft and wing-in-ground effect (WIG) vehicles are flying vehicles that operate near the surface of water or land. Hovercraft use an air cushion to move smoothly over various terrains, while WIG vehicles utilize aerodynamic lift and the ground effect for enhanced efficiency and speed. Hovercraft are versatile, operating on water and land, while WIG vehicles are designed for fast transport over water surfaces.
Yes. A wing-in-ground effect vehicle like a flying boat, if well designed, requires less energy than an aircraft or boat to travel the same distance.
There are very few flying boats in the world. They are nearly all much bigger and heavier. The Spinner may be the only ultralight flying boat with electric propulsion.
Other designs declined due to aging pilots, builders, and designers, as they were built mainly in the 70s and 80s. Flying boats faced stability issues without fly-by-wire technology. Now, affordable flight controllers and electronics offer a chance to address these problems. Though electric propulsion is still somewhat costlier than gasoline engines, the difference is no longer prohibitive.
For fun! Initially, I had a strong desire to own a personal watercraft, like a jet ski. However, as time went on, I realized that jet skis didn't quite appeal to me as much as I had initially thought. So, I began considering creating something that would be even more enjoyable. Coincidentally, during this period, I came across a video showcasing a wing in ground effect vehicle, and I was captivated by its elegance, smoothness, and graceful flight.
Throughout history, many means of transportation have initially been conceived for recreational purposes and served as exclusive toys for the affluent. Eventually, these novel modes of transport evolved into vehicles used for competitive racing, and over time, their popularity grew, making them more accessible and affordable to the public.
Two people: The pilot and a passenger.
This craft heavily relies on favorable weather conditions, not just at takeoff but also at the destination. Due to its sensitivity to sea conditions, it becomes unreliable for passengers following strict schedules. As a result, making it a commercial passenger vehicle would be challenging. However, it could find applications in cargo and military operations.
Fly-by-wire (FBW) is a flight control system that replaces traditional mechanical controls with electronic components. It converts the pilot's inputs into electronic signals transmitted through electrical wires to the aircraft's control surfaces. FBW has become widespread in modern commercial and military aircraft, improving performance, safety, and handling.
For inherently unstable ekranoplans, a flight controller is essential. It corrects instability issues, ensuring a smooth and safe flight.
The initial prototype is equipped with two Tesla modules, providing a total of 10.6 kWh. I anticipate that these batteries will offer a range of 30 minutes or a little more. However, for future boats, I plan to utilize aircraft-grade batteries, despite their higher cost, as they have twice the energy capacity per unit weight.
To enable extended travel, especially for coastal and offshore exploration, I am contemplating the incorporation of a gas-powered range extender. This addition will allow for long-distance journeys, expanding the Spinner's potential to visit multiple locations.
I can compare it with riding a motorcycle. It is just like it, except that you will be sitting on top of the front fender, at 70+ miles per hour, offroad, and there are no headlights, no horn, and no brakes.