Investigation of the static lift capability of a low-aspect-ratio wing operating in a powered ground-effect mode

A preliminary experimental investigation has been made to evaluate the powered ground-effect capability of a low-aspect-ratio, wing-body configuration with forward-mounted propulsion. The tests were limited to static ground-effect conditions in order to obtain information on an air-cushion mode of operation. The results indicate, in general, that an air-cushion mode is within the capability of the type of configuration examined. The conditions examined indicated the possibility of hover mode and also forward acceleration capability in near-ground effect. Center-of-pressure movement did not appear to be a problem. However, it was recognized that longitudinal trim would be a problem to consider in both the hover and acceleration modes.