Dynamic Gybe

Dynamic gybe tests were performed in the University of Southampton 3.8m x 3.8m low speed wind tunnel using controlled motion of a model yacht and dynamometer system passing through a constant wind to determine the dynamic heel and drive forces experienced during a gybe. Due to the trimming of the sails the drive force reduces significantly compared to the equivalent quasi-static approximation as the bow passes through the wind. This data was used to improve the aerodynamic force model in the sail simulation software Robo-Race. This resulted in a reduction of boat speed exiting a gybe, which is a closer representation of the real life manoeuvre.

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• Dynamic
• Gybe