skirt

An air-cushion machine, also known as an air-cushion vehicle (ACV) or hovercraft, is a type of machine that moves by hovering close to the Earth's surface. This is achieved by developing air pressure around the craft, which supports a significant portion of its weight.1

A key component of ACVs is the skirt, which is attached beneath the hull. Skirts have evolved from simple curtains to complex shapes that help contain the air cushion, direct airflow, and provide secondary suspension. Early designs used a basic bag skirt, but this was prone to wear and tearing. The development of segmented or "finger-type" skirts in 1965 significantly improved durability and allowed the skirt to conform better to the operating surface, reducing drag and air-cushion losses. Materials for skirts have ranged from rubberized fabric and nylon to neoprene laminations, requiring strong bonding for durability under harsh conditions.2