Honing In
We are continuing our tests of L/V foils. The constraints imposed for this series are:– Foils made of straight segments with minimum (hydrodynamically clean) transition radius.– Total foil horizontal projection not more than 400mm to respect the inboard exclusion zone (tip-to-tip measurement) in the A Class Rule. The two main variables to explore are:-Foil […]
Mythbusting
Some thoughts on our recent testing with heave-stable ‘acute L’ foils (L/V for short). This experiment had one aim: To prove that a simple cheap upgrade is possible to convert existing A Class catamarans to stable foiling without major structural modifications. The story so far We knew from previous testing that L/V foils give stable […]
A World(s) of Learning – Part 2
One more post on appendages. Then we can look at other areas of development such as aerodynamic tailoring and control systems/ergonomics. Glenn Ashby balancing nicely on J foils and Paradox rudders. Photo by Rhenny Fermor of www.sailingshots.com.au Steering system The new kinetic techniques used to promote early flight, combined with much higher top speeds, really […]
A World(s) of Learning – Part 1
One of the things I love about yacht racing is the ability to get objective feedback in testing and competition. As with any experimental science, the feedback comes mixed with noise, and bundled with data that is correlated to, but may not be caused by, the variables being tested. Part of the challenge is to […]
What It Is
Answer to the SA quiz about this pic: Rapid proof-of-concept prototype of a system to adjust rudder winglet/elevator Angle of Attack in real time. Actuated by twisting the tiller extension, it uses worm drives to rake the entire cassette on both hulls, maintaining rudder balance but adjusting the lift produced by the rudder foils. It is […]
Stability Principles
Time to answer some questions about stability in pitch. Over the past few months of testing we have found some very interesting things worth sharing. Stability as an Alternative to Active Management Without going into the maths, stability in pitch has a strict definition in aircraft theory and is a requirement for what […]
Racing Ahead
Lots to report with progress on many fronts.One of our Paradox V2 A Cat prototypes (the orange boat AKA ‘Glennis‘) has raced in several evens in Victoria, skippered by young Tom Stuchbery. Feedback is extremely encouraging. Overall we are now certain that the concept works well. The boat is consistently fast, especially upwind where it can […]
Gray on White
V2 Paradox for a customer. Clean look with white hulls, grey grip, and black tramp. Grip is by Raptor, paint by Durepox and tramp by Steve Brewin.
Keeping Busy
Testing, two boat tuning, regattas, and finishing new As. Weeding out weak links in the supply chain and beefing up QC. Here are some pictures. Words will resume soon…
Testing Videos
Some moving pictures showing testing of Paradox V2.0. The new foils are promising, with the boat feeling very lively and free. Quantitative measurements back up the qualitative feedback. As already mentioned, the principal benefit is ease of use: The foils require no intervention by the sailor. Tacking performance is also better and handling is very […]