Farewell 2014
Some images looking back on a year of regrouping, transition, and growth: Production L rudders, proven at the A Class Catamaran Worlds Mould for experimental T rudder elevator with junction bulb. Part of extensive R&D work on appendages Rudder gudgeon assembly with ‘between races’ rake adjustment Experimental gudgeons with ‘on the fly’ rake adjustment via […]
Choices
We have received many questions regarding the differences between ‘active’ and ‘passive’ foil systems for full foiling. So here is a look at the principles with respect to performance. Active An active system consists of a foil with variable camber or variable angle of incidence controlled by a sensor that measures heave position (ride height). […]
Checking In
Click here to read a Q&A Session with Martin Vanzulli who is doing a great job of keeping the A Class website up to date as well as running the Catsailingnews blog. The interview covers our V3 Paradox A Class design (nearing production) as well as our ongoing foil R&D work. The final questions are […]
Higher Learning
Earlier today two teams from the University of NSW presented results of an inquiry into theoretical hydrofoil stability and performance. The teams undertook to assess three candidate foil types on an A Class catamaran and investigate relative characteristics of lift, drag and change in lift with ride height/leeway. A more detailed report is being prepared, […]
Working the Angles
Our Paradox Version 3 A Class cat platform design is complete and tooling is underway. The foil housing arrangement in the new boat is designed to accommodate virtually any shape with full interchangeability of parts using a new version of our proven system of hull and deck bearings. Now focus is on foil design. The […]
Inevitable
Here is an extended mix showing some early runs with experimental control system foil configurations. Though there is still vast untapped potential, these sequences give a flavour of what is surely to come. Everyone who tried it commented, through a persistent grin, that it is easy and feels secure.As often repeated on this site, the […]
Bel Paese
Some great images of Andrea Ferrari racing his Paradox V2 in Italy
Think with a Twist
In response to an avalanche of questions about how our experimental foils with the lifting surface mounted at the forward end of a ‘fuselage’ tube can be extracted from above… Here are some illustrations: First the foil is raked top-forward so the tube sits vertically through-hull slot. Then the foil is rotated about the long axis of […]
Paving the Way
Lots to report as we continue to test over the winter… We are working on the next-generation Paradox A Class Cat design for the 2015 season, resolving the details for all new tooling to be created in-house at a new facility. Now that our new expanded production facility is operational we can tackle such jobs […]
Another Result
Using Paradox rudder blades retrofitted to his customised DNA platform, Mischa Heemskerk dominated the first Dutch event of the 2014 season at Muiderzand with 5 bullets out of six races. Skilfully balancing in good foiling trim, the instant expertly captured in a nice still image. Remaining in this trim requires very active control. Image copyright Jasper […]