LIGHTWEIGHT MANUFACTURING
therefore widespread 3D printing is not currently seen as an advantage to us in production. Whilst access to the best software is beneficial to the company, a large majority of potential lead time reductions occurs in the interaction between the design department, production and suppliers. We are seeing improved accuracy, less rework and greater schedule adherence to assure on-time delivery to clients.
CAN YOU IMPROVE THE USER EXPERIENCE? Our priority is in the safety and usability of our craft for the role they are used in. User experiences forms an integral part of this. For example, in the 12000TD passenger hovercraft user experience was key. For this spacious, comfortable passenger seating was installed in an air-conditioned cabin with internal noise below 75dB. Access was moved from the sides to the bow of the craft using stairs and a ramp for fast entry and exit. Our ducted propellers allow for slower tip speeds, reducing the external noise significantly.
ARE THERE ADVANCES IN POWER ELECTRONICS? EmpirBus DCMs are used on most craft to simplify power distribution as well as using them to control various alarm functions on the craft. The distribution network means considerably less cable is required, saving overall weight in the craft. Most larger craft built will have extensive power networks requiring a
The 995ED production line at Griffon’s facility on the UK’s South Coast
mixture of AC and DC power. Recent advances in MasterVolt technology has made transforming power more compact, whether it is supplied from the batteries, engine or shore supply, taking up less space in the service bay as well as weighing less. Our standard navigation equipment
fitted to the craft is continuously updated incorporating the most up to date features and navigational aids.
WILL THEY EVER BE AUTONOMOUS? Autonomous hovercraft is a very real prospect in the near future and we are preparing for this to become reality. Particularly in logistics supply across amphibious environments.
TALK ME THOROUGH YOUR RECENT PATENTS Our most recent patent was for the mixed flow fan design we use in the lift system on our newest craft; 995ED and 12000TD. We are constantly innovating, incorporating new applications and using the patent process to protect our Intellectual Property.
IS THERE STILL MUCH PHYSICAL TESTING? All of our craft are put through a rigorous testing procedure to ensure each performs as intended and there are no shortfalls. This remains a requirement for Flag authorities and IACS and annual surveys. At component level, we recently
developed a new skirt fabric for craft that are used in harsh ice environments. Part of the development included 6 months of overall testing of the material fitted to hovercraft in a wide range of conditions and environments. Testing was imperative in determining the suitability of the fabric for a hovercraft skirt.
The Peruvian and Colombian Navy uses the 2000TD for anti-narcotics operations
HAVE THERE BEEN MANY MATERIAL CHANGES? Apart from the above, the standard hovercraft skirt fabric hasn’t changed much over the last 20 years. Thrust propellers were unguarded and over the years have transitioned to ducted
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