Sail optimisation for maximal speed

Day, Alexander (1996) Sail optimisation for maximal speed. Journal of Wind Engineering and Industrial Aerodynamics, 63 (1-3). pp. 131-154. ISSN 0167-6105 (https://doi.org/10.1016/S0167-6105(96)00073-6)

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Abstract

A variety of approaches to sail optimisation are reviewed. A mathematical model is described which allows the optimisation of the spanwise lift distribution of a high speed craft with a criterion of maximal offwind speed. The model uses a numerical lifting line approach to predict the aerodynamic forces and moments allied to an empirical model of the hydrodynamic forces. A further model is presented which yields the optimal sailplan for a yacht based on a criterion of maximal speed made good to windward; this may be calculated either for a single windspeed, or in an averaged sense for a selection of different windspeeds. The vortex lattice method is used to predict aerodynamic forces and moments, whilst the hydrodynamic forces and moments are estimated using a performance prediction approach based on data from the Delft systematic yacht hull series. Three variations in rig type are considered: a basic sloop rig, a sloop rig with a roached mainsail, and a ketch rig. In both models the optimisation is carried out using a genetic algorithm. Typical results are presented, and scope for future work is discussed.

ORCID iDs

Day, Alexander ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6798-3468;
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