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The following pictures illustrate a unique design which is aiming to improve the performance of the successful Hobie 18. The goals of the WingFoil concept are to achieve the following:
Increase leverage operated by the crew, similar to outriggers built by the manufacturer
Generates a positive lift (
approx 40 kgf at 15 kn) if
immersed in the water while the catamaran is flying the upwind hull.
Benefits gained are:
- Increased stability
- Improved forward hull buoyancy
- Reduced drag, compared to traditional outriggers
- Increased wind power/weight ratio yields superior
performance in heavy winds
The wing frames are made of aluminum tubing, while the wing itself is a hollow composite shell filled with foam. Since the WingFoil has a volume of 0.1 m2 and a weight of only 25 kgf, it is capable of a buoyancy force of approx 75 kgf once submerged. Therefore the WingFoil is of great help to right the boat if it goes over.
Additional features of the WingFoil:
Adjustable width
Adjustable angle
Tapered, slated end for more comfortable trapezing from far behind.
Curled upward end for reduced drag in choppy sea.
For any additional information contact: expertdesigner@shaw.ca
Design and image copyright
by Armando Design
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