Légpárna

Légpárna, meaning air cushion in Hungarian, refers to a layer of pressurized air trapped between a surface and an object, allowing for reduced friction and easier movement. This principle is widely applied in various technologies. The most common application is the hovercraft, a vehicle that travels over land or water by creating a cushion of air beneath its hull, lifting it slightly off the surface. This allows it to move with minimal resistance.

Another significant use of the légpárna principle is found in industrial settings. Air bearing tables and slides utilize a thin film of air to support heavy loads, enabling precise and effortless manipulation of components in manufacturing and metrology. These systems require a continuous supply of compressed air to maintain the cushion.

In the realm of sports, air-cushioned soles in footwear are designed to absorb impact and provide comfort. While not a true hovercraft effect, these designs incorporate air-filled chambers or pockets that compress and rebound, mimicking some aspects of an air cushion. The core concept remains the reduction of direct contact and the introduction of a yielding medium to facilitate movement or reduce stress. The effectiveness of a légpárna depends on the ability to maintain a consistent pressure and volume of air within the confined space.