RT Journal Article SR Electronic A1 Chalupa, Milan A1 Švásta, Adam A1 Krobot, Zdeněk A1 Veverka, Josef A1 Knobloch, Roman A1 Svoboda, Antonín A1 Svoboda, Martin A1 Balcar, Patrik A1 Cais, Jaroslav A1 Štěrba, Jan A1 Lattner, Michal A1 Ponikelský, Josef T1 Creating a 3D Model of a Hovercraft for Research into Structural Shape Optimization and Material Design of Structural Parts JF Manufacturing Technology Journal YR 2025 VO 25 IS 1 SP 2 OP 13 DO 10.21062/mft.2025.007 UL https://journalmt.com/artkey/mft-202501-0006.php AB The article describes the creation of a mathematical 3D model of the original hovercraft structure, which will be further used for research into modifying the shapes and materials of the structure to ensure better driving conditions. Proposals for new materials for individual parts of the hovercraft structure will be addressed in order to reduce the weight of the hovercraft and thereby ensure a higher possible speed of movement, reduce fuel consumption and ensure the necessary mechanical properties of individual segments. The mathematical model of the simplified hovercraft model was created in the Cradle and Adams simulation programs. The paper is presented by analyzing the hovercraft properties in order to obtain sets of advantages and disadvantages of the hovercraft. The following is a description of the creation of a geometric 3D model of the hovercraft, which is built using Autodesk Inventor. The article further describes the transformation of the 3D model into a simulation model that can be used for co-simulation of movement in the Adams and Cradle computer simulation systems. The simulations will be the first step towards modifying the structure of a real rescue UAV prototype with improved maneuverability, stability and the ability to traverse terrain with surfaces unsuitable for hovering.