Performance of Riverine Utility Craft (RUC) in Riverine Environments
Abstract
Tests were conducted at four riverine sites in south Louisiana in November 1969 to evaluate the performance of the Riverine Utility Craft (RUC). The RUC is an amphibian that employs a locomotion concept based on the Archimedean screw. It moves by two counterrotating rotors that give forward and backward thrust; the rotors also serve to float the craft. The RUC is powered by two 380-hp engines and is designed to carry a payload of 2000 lb; the gross weight of the RUC is 13,000 lb. Specific purposes of the tests were to develop performance-soil strength (rating cone index) relations in terms of maximum straight-line speed, maximum maneuver speed, and minimum time required to turn 180 deg, determine water-exit capabilities, determine the speed attained in a variety of test courses and terrain types commonly found in wetland marshes, and determine the degree of analogy of the terrain types tested with terrain types at selected areas of the Mekong Delta, South Vietnam. The specific purposes of the test program were satisfied. Test results indicate that, in general, the RUC can operate in the riverine environments for which it was designed. The craft's performance is most effective in water and wet marshes of low soil strength. The RUC also has a performance capability in areas considered restrictive or even inaccessible to boats and other amphibious craft. Appendix A discusses the comparison of terrain types tested during the RUC program with those identified in selected areas of the Mekong Delta. Appendix B presents detailed descriptions of soil profiles along the Louisiana test courses.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1970
- Accession Number
- AD0869011
Entities
People
- Barton G. Schreiner
- Charles E. Green
- Robert P Smith