What does hydroptere mean? In Greek, hydros means “water” and ptère “wing” … yes, it is a question of a hybrid device combining aeronautics and maritime science. By means of a set of submerged wings – also called foils – the hull of a boat rises and stays balanced out of the water from a certain speed. The lift of the foils makes it possible to limit the surface in contact with the water and to reduce the friction of the waves. The water that acted as a brake becomes only a support.
This adventure began in 1861 when the British Thomas Moy discovered the principle of hydrofoil trying to test the wings planned for the first aircraft. It continues with many engineers who improved the original models and patents. In 1984, the American William Meacham equips a model of 5 foils and in 1897, the Count of Lambert adds four transverse planes to a catamaran.
Ahead of his time, it was Enrico Forlanini who designs the first real hydrofoil reaching 38 knots (70km / h)in 1905. Fifteen years later, the first patent is filed by brothers Malcolm and Thomas McIntyre.
But far from being only a speed oriented vehicle, the hydrofoil also have energetic advantages.
Since 2015, a Slovenian company has been selling a two-seat hydrofoil jet-ski that is 100% powered by solar energy: the Quadrofoil.
