OpenMarine

Full Version: Upwind or Downwind according various parameters
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Hello

I have been reading with interest what is written about PyPilot, as well as suggestions from users.
It seem a great product

I would like to share what is happening to some powerful Auto Pilots, equipping racing yachts that surf, easily sail overspeed, ... on some AP that use computers in addition to sensors,

These pilots are analyzing the information collected by various sensors course followed, apparent wind angle, real wind bearing, wind strength, acceleration, heel of the boat, sea state... over the last three (?) minutes

They are use this information to introduce flexibility and gain efficiency.

For example, in addition to the course to be followed, the skipper determines the heel of the boat that should be respected, the heel of the boat that should never been exceeded, the permitted deviations from the course, ....

As soon as the heel of the boat increase,
- if the boat considers that it is sailing upwind, the boat luffs
- if the boat considers that it is sailing downwind, the boat will go downwind
exactly what a helmsman would do

As soon as the boat heels less,
- if the boat considers that it is sailing upwind, the boat will go downwind
- if the boat considers that it is sailing downwind, the boat luffs
exactly what a helmsman would do to regain power

If the wind speed vary to much, knowing the installed sail configuration, the AP can play an alert inviting the crew adjusting the sail area

If maximum tension is reached on some sensors or if the boat heel that should never been exceeded is approaching, in addition of luffs or going downwind, the boat can shock the sheets
...

This sounds extremely appealing and I'm sure you can take advantage of some of these evolutions