This is my latest hovercraft.  It is the first  and only one that I have constructed that will successfully support human weight.  The max payload of this vehicle is approx. 180-200lbs.  It is powered off of a HOMELITE backpack blower. A couple of PVC pieces were attached to improve the airflow.

How does a leaf blower lift up to 200lbs.? The air is forced out of the blower down into an airtight plastic "skirt".  There are a series of small holes around the center of the craft on the underside which allow the air to escape.  The weight of the rider creates a pressure that allows the whole craft to hover on a thin film of air.  The craft is nearly frictionless and so it slides around with perfect ease.  The craft was relatively simple to make and took about an afternoon with a friend to construct.

 

 



The coffee can lid acts as a strain relief to stop the plastic skirt from tearing away from the center.  There are six holes that allow air to escape and cause the craft to hover.  The skirt is really a heavy duty shower curtain stapled around the edges.  the attachment on the right is where the leaf blower attaches onto the hovercraft.  This assembly allows for a quick easy disconnect that allows easier storage.

If you are interested in making one of these or have some questions, contact me at Graeme@ntelos.net