There are some aspects of it that I really like. I especially like that they aren't over hyping it.
I like that the wing rotates around a fixed mast, that makes it very easy to rotate it. They can take advantage of a much larger wind angle in relation to the boat than a sail and still be very efficient. The fixed mast means they can attach a jib to increase the area and lift, especially for downwind.
The adjustable camber means that they can get more lift from the same area than with a symmetrical wing and the wing has a larger AOA range.
What I don't like is the complexity and potential weight of the system. It has to be 2 to 3 times heavier than a conventional sail (just in the extra sails and battens alone), weight aloft is generally a bad idea.
I also don't like that the wing has to be controlled by a traveler and that the wing has the potential to stall, instantaneously doubling the drag and forces on the mast.
Overall though, it looks very promising to me.
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Posted by: taladorwood@yahoo.com.au
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