Paul,
FYI:
http://www.oceandatasystem.com/?titre=upsideup-easy-version&mode=developpement-ods-upsideup&id=839
If you get the main unit, the distributor, and two
electropneunatic cleats (twho mainsheets -- fore and aft), the
package looks to be round € 2,000. Or € 3,000, give or take, if you
upgrade to electromechanical cleats. I haven't looked into this
enough to know if the difference matters. Basicaly, I just saw the
ad in the back of Multihulls International, saved the URL, and
figured I'd research it in more detail when the time comes to get
serious.
I'd say while this is a lot better than nothing, it's probably
best to look at it as a backup to conservative sailing. Unless
you're racing and are prepared to take what comes long with pushing
things to the edge, of course.
- Mike
Paul Wilson wrote:
I like the idea of an electric solenoid connected to a cleat that is activated by some kind of level switch. It could be all self contained with it's own battery. It could also be located below and go to the cleat via an engine shift cable if you are really worried about water mixing with the electrics. To some it might sound complicated but I think it would be more reliable than arms or levers sticking in the water which are vulnerable to breakage.
Cheers, Paul