The optimisation of aerodynamic lift distribution for a heeled yacht in a wind gradient

Alexander Day

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

A mathematical model has been developed to predict the distribution of lift over the rig of a yacht which gives the maximum forward speed. The model includes the effects of heel, wind gradient, and the presence of a gap between the foot of the sail and the deck. The aerodynamic performance of the rig is predicted using a simple numerical implementation of lifting line theory whilst the hydrodynamics of the hull are predicted from experiment data.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)91-108
Number of pages18
JournalTransactions of the Royal Institution of Naval Architects
Volume134
Publication statusPublished - 1992

Keywords

  • yachts
  • sail
  • aerodynamic performance
  • yacht rig

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