The system has now been launched under the registered brand name Oceanwings, based on an efficient two-part wing profile similar to the rigs currently used on foiling catamarans in the America's Cup. Unlike on the current AC racing machines, however, the Oceanwings wing is not completely rigid, but can be set and reefed like a conventional sail. The profile consists of flexible carbon fibre ribs over which sail fabric is stretched in segments. The profile is set on an unstayed, unprofiled round mast. The strength of the wing is only achieved when it is attached to the mast.
The special feature of the Oceanwings system is its full automation. A central computer analyses the data on wind strength, wind direction and angle of incidence and then adjusts the wing fully automatically via a complex hydraulic system so that it is always optimised. The Oceanwings wing has now been successfully tested for the first time on an eight-metre trimaran from Tricat. However, this is still more or less a model test. VPLP's system is initially intended primarily for use on cargo ships and large luxury yachts, with the aim of significantly improving the energy balance over long distances and greatly reducing pollutant emissions. However, implementation on medium-sized and large sailing yachts and catamarans is also being planned, says VPLP project manager Nicolas Sdez.
However, the idea of a flexible wing rig is not entirely new: back in 2014, the French Groupe Beneteau presented a one-piece wing rig that could be adjusted via joints and was built on a Sense 43 sailing yacht. The system was presented as a revolution in yachting, but has not yet been able to develop significantly from the project stage - it has initially remained a prototype. A very similar system was developed by Omer-Wingsail in co-operation with One Sails. The likewise flexible profile rig was tested quite successfully on an Elan 37 and on a Seascape 18. However, Omer's profiles have not really caught on either. And Incidence Sails in France has also built a semi-rigid wingsail rig, with which the sensational Arkema Mini 6.50 (see report in YACHT 4/2017) is set to win the race of ocean-going dwarfs across the Atlantic.
