An Australian Defence scientist has designed a sail craft which he believes will break the world sailing speed record. The craft is based on a wing-borne hydrofoil concept.
Stephen Bourn is a mathematical scientist with the Adelaide-based Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO). He says the design will allow the craft to travel at more than twice the speed of the wind in which it is sailing. He also believes the design has potential applications for Defence, including wings for lightweight unmanned aircraft and high-speed hydrofoils for naval boats.
The theory has been proven on a series of radio-controlled models. The craft incorporates a wing-like sail, submerged hydrofoils and a cockpit for one pilot.
"With sufficient wind and speed the hull will lift completely clear of the water surface, the craft will fly, leaving only the submerged hydrofoil struts cutting the surface" Bourn said.
"The air-borne hull means much lower drag."
"The relative positioning of the wing, hull and hydrofoil is inherently stable and there is no risk of capsize as sail force increases, unlike conventional craft. This allows a much higher power-to-weight ratio, and combined with lower drag, the result is much higher maximum speed" Bourn said.
The initial design is for a craft with an 8m wingspan. It will travel at a maximum speed exceeding 30 knots whenever the wind exceeds 15 knots. The sail and hydrofoil are pivoted to allow the pilot full control, using two joysticks, over the height, speed and direction of the craft. The craft will be launched from the beach, will be self-righting and transported by trailer.