Hi Mike,
It does seem that just putting Rare Bird's rig on a Harry would give
you good numbers, but I am concerned that might now show the whole
picture.
For one, the main is going to be a very heavy sailcloth and in light
air it seems like it will have trouble setting the proper shape. Much
easier for a sail that is designed for 0-15 kts, instead of one
designed for 10-50 kts.
Less importantly, but it is also going to be quite an effort lifting
that whole 500 sq ft of main for that light air performance. I know
the exercise is good for me, but when I get all sweaty, my wine and
cheeze mood sours <grin>.
Is it possible to design a larger headsail where the center of effort
is far enough aft to keep the COE of the whole rig aft of the mast? I
have not been able to find out how to calculate that. Can somebody on
the list help with that?
If that could be done, with a light fabric, it seems like it would be
a handy solution (other than having to roll it up to complete your
shunt).
- Gardner