We describe some applications of mathematical optimization techniques to yacht performance analysis. Applications include sail trim optimization in wind tunnels, match race modelling under uncertainty, and America’s Cup design optimization under uncertain weather conditions.

Published articles have been reprinted with the permission of the copyright holders. To my family, Konny, Daniel and Emma, and my parents Georg and Margareta The sailor doesn´t ask for tailwind , he learns how to sail

Abstract The aim of this research is to quantify the membrane deformations and their impact on performance for a ribbed wing sail. A 1m x 0.8m rectangular planform NACA0012 foil was designed replicate single section wing-sail. Two foils were manufactured based geometry, one out solid foam using rib structure. These tested in R.J. Mitchell closed return 3.6 m 2.5 wind tunnel at University Southa...

Sail-assisted technology can reduce greenhouse-gas emissions by saving the energy consumption of ships with wind utilization. The distribution characteristics marine resources are critical to energy-saving effect sail-assisted ships. However, due lack effective evaluation methods for improving utilization rate energy, a high potential still exists. A novel method based on resource analysis typi...

There has been a lot of philosophical and pragmatic debate on whether Computer Science is a craft, science or an engineering discipline. This article examines both Paul Graham’s claim that hackers and painters have a lot in common and Dr. Tolbert’s claim that Computer Science is a craft on its way to becoming an engineering discipline. We conclude that both claims have truth in them and argue t...