WO2016045721A1 - Wearable wind shift calculator device - Google Patents

Wearable wind shift calculator device Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2016045721A1
WO2016045721A1 PCT/EP2014/070362 EP2014070362W WO2016045721A1 WO 2016045721 A1 WO2016045721 A1 WO 2016045721A1 EP 2014070362 W EP2014070362 W EP 2014070362W WO 2016045721 A1 WO2016045721 A1 WO 2016045721A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
wind
marking
dial
face
console
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2014/070362
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Nikolaj Bestle
Original Assignee
Nikolaj Bestle
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Nikolaj Bestle filed Critical Nikolaj Bestle
Priority to PCT/EP2014/070362 priority Critical patent/WO2016045721A1/en
Publication of WO2016045721A1 publication Critical patent/WO2016045721A1/en

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01C—MEASURING DISTANCES, LEVELS OR BEARINGS; SURVEYING; NAVIGATION; GYROSCOPIC INSTRUMENTS; PHOTOGRAMMETRY OR VIDEOGRAMMETRY
    • G01C21/00—Navigation; Navigational instruments not provided for in groups G01C1/00 - G01C19/00
    • G01C21/20—Instruments for performing navigational calculations
    • G01C21/203—Specially adapted for sailing ships

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a wearable wind shift calculator device for competitive regatta sailing to be used in connection with a magnetic compass or a GPS device giving a similar course reading.
  • the present invention also relates to a method for calculating wind shift during competitive regatta sailing using a magnetic compass or a GPS device giving a similar course reading.
  • compass ring which is rotatably arranged between the basic casing and a console, the basic casing and the console being connected to each other, the console having a first console face and a second console face, the second console face being adapted to partly abut the first casing face, and
  • a wind dial having a first dial face and a second dial face, the second dial face being partly movably connected with the first console face,
  • the first console face comprises a scale area having a degree indication scale
  • the wind dial comprises an aperture arranged substantially opposite the scale area so that the scale area is visible through the aperture, so that when a new course reading is given by the compass due to a wind shift, the wind dial is moved accordingly in relation to the first console face, whereby the resulting calculation of a course change can be read on the scale area through the aperture.
  • the wearable wind shift calculator device works as a mechanical circular slide rule calculator and as a device for setting and remembering wind directions and important compass courses when sailing regattas. It supports the user's ability to remember compass courses and make calculations in order to be able to see trends in changes of the wind directions and their impact in order to be able to sail the shortest route in a racing course. It is furthermore a robust, weatherproof, easy to operate solution that will be able to stay within reach and visual contact at all times. Furthermore, a mark ring having one or more projected indicator(s) may be rotatably arranged between the compass ring and the basic casing.
  • a first shim plate may be arranged between the mark ring and the compass ring. By arranging the first shim plate between the mark ring and the compass ring it is obtained that the mark ring is separated from the compass ring, whereby joined rotation of the different parts are avoided.
  • a lock ring may be arranged between the basic casing and the compass ring or the mark ring for locking the rotation of the compass ring and/or the mark ring in relation to the basic casing and the console. The device can then be locked at initial settings, while still allowing for temporary adjustments for wind shift with an immediate resulting calculation for all important angles. By using the wind dial from an initial reference point, the user will gradually get a much clearer overview of trends in wind shift as the original setting can be saved as reference by locking the device. The users can easily return to the "nominal" wind situation by resetting the wind dial.
  • a second shim plate may be arranged between the lock ring and the compass ring or the mark ring.
  • the compass ring may have a 360 degree scale extending around its circumference, so that the 360 degree scale is visible around the wind dial.
  • the first dial face of the wind dial may be round and may have a wind direction marking, a starboard closehaul marking, a port closehaul marking, a startingline angle starboard side marking, a startingline angle port side marking, a starboard reach marking, a port reach marking and/or a jibe marking.
  • a wind shift can easily be identified at starboard or port close haul markings and the wind dial can be rotated accordingly without moving the compass ring, the mark ring or the lock ring.
  • the other important main markings will change accordingly to new compass readings.
  • the resulting calculated change in wind angle can be read in the indication scale in the aperture of the wind dial.
  • the wind dial can be reset back to 0 degree wind angle in aperture of the wind dial - thus restoring all the original nominal compass readings for all the important main markings identified at the start of the race.
  • the wind direction marking may be positioned at the periphery of the round first dial face
  • the starboard closehaul marking may be positioned on the left side of the wind direction marking at the periphery with substantially a 45 degree angle in relation to the wind direction marking
  • the port closehaul marking may be positioned on the right side of the wind direction marking at the periphery with substantially a 45 degree angle in relation to the wind direction marking
  • the starting line angle starboard side marking and the starting line angle port side marking may be a plus indication and a minus indication, respectively, and may be arranged on opposite sides of the starting line marking
  • the starting line marking extending from the periphery inwards against a centre of the first dial face and being arranged substantially 45 degrees from the starboard closehaul marking
  • a wind shift indicator line may be arranged on the opposite side of the starting line marking, on both sides of the aperture
  • the starboard reach marking and the port reach marking may both be arranged at the periphery with 45 degrees from the starting line marking
  • a handle may be arranged in connection with the first dial face of the wind dial.
  • the aperture may have a curved shape, the curved shape following the periphery of the wind dial, and the scale area on the console may have substantially the same curved shape as the aperture.
  • the basic casing may comprise a plurality of internal helical ramp surfaces which together with the lock ring acts as an internal adjustable vice or locking mechanism which can either lock the moving parts completely or be adjusted to have them move with a desired friction.
  • the lock ring can be rotated clockwise, resulting in a gradually increasing friction of the movable parts up to a point where the parts can no longer be rotated .
  • the user can hereby choose how easily the rotating elements can move. This is helpful, as it prevents unintended changes of the settings (rotation) of the compass ring and the mark ring. By tunring the lock ring anticlockwise until it stops, the compass ring and the mark ring can be rotated freely.
  • the wind dial may be held in position by a spring tip of the console that acts upon a tooth gear-shaped rack protruding from the second dial face of the wind dial, the wind dial is connected with the console by a bayonet mount arranged at the console, and a small lock pin protruding from the second dial face is adapted to slide over a ramp of the console into a groove arranged in the console, causing the wind dial to be locked for limited rotation.
  • the present invention also relates to a method for calculating wind shift during competitive regatta sailing using a magnetic compass or a GPS device giving a similar course reading and the wearable wind shift calculator device according to any of the preceding claims The method comprising the steps of:
  • the method may further comprise the steps of:
  • the method may further comprise the step of
  • Fig. 1 shows the wearable wind shift calculator device according to the present invention in exploded view
  • Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the wearable wind shift calculator device
  • Figs. 3-4 show the wind dial and the console
  • Figs. 5-6 show the function of the wearable wind shift calculator device
  • Fig. 7 shows the wearable wind shift calculator device ready for use.
  • Fig. 1 shows the wearable wind shift calculator device 100 according to the present invention in an exploded view
  • Fig. 2 shows the wearable wind shift calculator device 100 in a cross-sectional view.
  • the wearable wind shift calculator device 100 is for competitive regatta sailing and intended for use in connection with a magnetic compass (not shown) or a GPS device giving a course reading similar to that of the magnetic compass.
  • the wearable wind shift calculator device 100 comprises a basic casing 1 having a first casing face 50 and a second casing face 51, a compass ring 6 which is rotatably arranged between the basic casing 1 and a console 7, the basic casing 1 and the console 7 being connected to each other.
  • the console 7 has a first console face 52 and a second console face 53, the second console face 53 being adapted to partly abut the first casing face 50, and a wind dial 8 has a first dial face 54 and a second dial face 55, the second dial face 55 being partly movably connected with the first console face 52.
  • the basic casing 1 holds the other parts together along with console 7 which is fixed to the basic casing 1 by two screws 9.
  • the geometry of the part allows for mounting the device 100 on the wrist, making the device 100 portable and wearable.
  • the basic casing 1 also holds a plurality of internal helical ramp surfaces 10 which together with the lock ring 2 acts as an internal adjustable vice or locking mechanism which can either lock the moving parts completely or be adjusted to have them move with a desired friction.
  • the lock ring 2 cooperates with the basic casing 1 in order to form an internal locking mechanism for the moving parts.
  • a second shim plate 3 is a part that separates the lock ring 2 from the mark ring 4 in order to prevent an undesired rotation of the mark ring 4 when adjusting the friction or locking with the lock ring 2.
  • the mark ring 4 works as an extra compass indication together with the compass ring 6. This part can be set independently for remembering the compass course to the top and bottom windward marks in a sailing regatta.
  • a first shim plate 5 is a part that separates the mark ring 4 from the compass ring 6 in order to adjust the rotation of either of them without rotating the other. This is achieved by the first shim plate 5 with a nose and groove connection 12 to the console 7 that prevents rotation.
  • the compass ring 6 works as a rotational indicator for remembering important compass courses and may have a 360 degree scale as shown in Fig. 1.
  • the console 7 holds all moving parts together along with basic casing 1.
  • the wind dial 8 comprises the main graphics that form the measuring marks in order to read compass courses from the compass ring 6. It furthermore provides additional incremental adjustment when all other parts are locked. Together with the compass ring 6 and the indicators 13 on the mark ring 4, the wind dial 8 provides reading of important courses for memory help in order to notice and calculate shifts in the wind direction. The wind dial 8 can also accommodate temporary adjustments without moving compass ring 6 or mark ring 4.
  • the lock ring 2 can elevate from the basic casing 1 by rotating the lock ring 2 for instance clockwise.
  • the rotation is provided by four helical ramp surfaces 10 on each part. This rotation will not affect rotation of the mark ring 4 as the parts are also separated by the second shim plate 3 with a nose and groove connection 12 to the console 7.
  • This mechanism can gradually increase friction or locking of the rotation of the mark ring 4 and compass ring 6 to a desired level by turning the lock ring 2 clockwise. By turning the lock ring 2 anticlockwise, the friction decreases and the compass ring 6 and mark ring 4 can be completely unlocked for adjustments.
  • the basic casing 1 provides means 11 of attaching the device 100 to the wrist by a strap or to a loop in a belt or even to other sailing equipment, for instance a PFD.
  • the first console face 52 comprises a scale area 56 having a degree indication scale
  • the wind dial 8 comprises an aperture 20 arranged substantially opposite the scale area 56, so that the scale area 56 is visible through the aperture 20, so that when a new course reading is given by the compass or GPS device due to a wind shift, the wind dial 8 is moved accordingly in relation to the first console face 52, whereby the resulting calculation of a course change can be read on the scale area 56 through the aperture 20.
  • the wind dial 8 may be moved clockwise or anticlockwise in relation to first console face 52 in response to the wind shifts, i.e. dependent on whether the wind heads or lifts, whereby the course change may be rapidly calculated.
  • Fig. 2 shows in a cross-sectional view how the different parts of the wearable wind shift calculator device 100 is connected and mounted in relation to each other.
  • Fig. 3 shows how the wind dial 8 can be adjusted by incremental adjustment steps, the wind dial being held in position by a spring tip 16 from the console 7 that acts upon a tooth gear-shaped rack 17 protruding from the second dial face 55 of the wind dial 8.
  • the wind dial 8 mounts to the console 7 by a bayonet mount 14, and a small lock pin 15 slides over the ramp 18 into the groove 19 and hence locks the wind dial for limited rotation. It can later be detached for exchange by lifting the lock pin 15 out of the groove 19 and turning the wind dial 8 further clockwise.
  • Fig. 4 shows the aperture 20 with a wind shift indicator line 21 in the wind dial 8 that provides a view to the degree indication scale 22 of the scale area 56 on the console 7, which shows the resulting incremental change of angle of rotation (the resulting wind shift).
  • the upper half 22a of the degree indication scale 22 may be coloured red for changes to port side, and the lower half 22b of the degree indication scale 22 may be coloured green for changes to starboard side.
  • Main wind angle is indicated by the wind direction marking 23, here in the form of an arrow. Two symbols in the form of a boat illustrate starboard close haul 24 and port close haul.
  • a handle 26 is used to turn the wind dial 8, while the compass ring 6 and the mark ring 4 are locked.
  • the markers 27 at 10 degree increments are helpful for evaluating downwind angles.
  • a starting line indicator 25 helps to see if the starting line is non-perpendicularly biased windward at one end.
  • the first dial face 54 of the wind dial 8 may be round and may have a wind direction marking 23, a starboard closehaul marking 24, a port closehaul marking 24', a starting line angle starboard side marking 30, a starting line angle port side marking 30', a starboard reach marking 31, a port reach marking 31' and/or a jibe marking 29.
  • the wind direction marking 23 may be positioned at the periphery 35 of the round first dial face 54
  • the starboard closehaul marking 24 may be positioned on the left side of the wind direction marking 23 at the periphery with substantially a 45 degree angle in relation to the wind direction marking 24
  • the port closehaul marking 24' may be positioned on the right side of the wind direction marking 23 at the periphery with substantially a 45 degree angle in relation to the wind direction marking 23.
  • the starting line angle starboard side marking 30 and the starting line angle port side marking 30' are a plus indication and a minus indication, respectively, and are arranged on opposite sides of the starting line marking 25.
  • the starting line marking extends from the periphery inwards against a centre 36 of the first dial face and is arranged substantially 45 degrees from the starboard closehaul marking 24. Furthermore, a wind shift indicator line 21 may be arranged on the opposite side of the starting line marking 25, on both sides of the aperture 20.
  • the starboard reach marking 31 and the port reach marking 31' may both be arranged at the periphery 35 at an angle of 45 degrees from the starting line marking 25, and the wind shift indicator line 21 and the jibe marking 29 may be arranged substantially opposite the wind direction marking 23.
  • the wind dial 8 may also comprise other markings or indications in the form of other graphical symbols for assisting in the calculation of the optimum course around the upwind and downwind legs of the race course.
  • the wind dial 8 may also comprise boat or yacht specific polar diagrams and indications for assisting in the calculation of the best courses and wind angles to the wind compared to the wind shifts.
  • Fig. 5 furthermore shows an example of use at the start of a sailing regatta.
  • the compass is first set to the measure nominal wind, which in this example is 245 degrees indicated at the wind direction marking 23.
  • the windward mark is measured at 250 degrees which is indicated by turning the mark ring indicator 13.
  • the mark ring 4 and the compass ring 6 are assumed to be locked by turning the lock ring 2 clockwise.
  • the starboard close haul indicator 24 calculates a nominal course at 200 degrees.
  • the starting line is calculated to be perpendicular (non-biased and neutral) to the wind direction at a bearing of 155 degrees, shown at the port side of the starting line indicator 25.
  • the jibe indicator 29 calculates a jibe at 65 degrees, while the downwind mark indicator 28 of the mark ring is located to the starboard side showing a starboard-biased bear away at downwind.
  • Fig. 6 shows an example of a wind change with calculations, assuming the original sailed starboard close haul course changes from 200 degrees to 215 degrees indicated at the starboard close haul indicator 24. This has been accomplished by turning the wind dial 8 by the handle 26 about 15 degrees clockwise. The resulting calculations around the dial show that the wind direction must now be 260 degrees shown at the wind direction marking 23.
  • the wind shift indicator line 21 at the aperture 20 in the wind dial 8 reveals a calculation of a wind change of 15 degrees.
  • the jibe indicator 29 reveals a jibe at 80 degrees instead of 65 degrees.
  • the starting line indicator 25 reveals a neutral starting line at a bearing of 170 degrees.
  • the downwind mark indicator 28 has now shifted to the port side, indicating a port side-biased bear way at downwind. Note that the mark ring indicators 13, 28 stay in their correct positions since they are locked together with the compass ring.
  • the wearable wind shift calculator device 100 may also comprise a watch with known sailing functions, such as for instance audible alarm, 5,4,1,0 sequence or 5 min or 3 min or 1 min programs for countdown in starting procedures, etc.
  • the watch may be waterproof.
  • the wearable wind shift calculator device 100 is preferably made of plastic material.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Radar, Positioning & Navigation (AREA)
  • Remote Sensing (AREA)
  • Automation & Control Theory (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Indicating Or Recording The Presence, Absence, Or Direction Of Movement (AREA)

Abstract

The present invention relates to a wearable wind shift calculator device for competitive regatta sailing to be used in connection with a magnetic compass or a GPS device giving a similar course reading, comprising a basic casing having a first casing face and a second casing face, a compass ring which is rotatably arranged between the basic casing and a console, the basic casing and the console being connected to each other, the console having a first console face and a second console face, the second console face being adapted to partly abut the first casing face, and a wind dial having a first dial face and a second dial face, the second dial face being partly movably connected with the first console face, wherein the first console face comprises a scale area having a degree indication scale, and the wind dial comprises an aperture arranged substantially opposite the scale area, so that the scale area is visible through the aperture, so that when a new course reading is given by the compass due to a wind shift, the wind dial is moved accordingly in relation to the first console face, whereby the resulting calculation of a course change can be read on the scale area through the aperture. The present invention also relates to a method for calculating wind shift during competitive regatta sailing.

Description

WEARABLE WIND SHIFT CALCULATOR DEVICE
Field of the invention
The present invention relates to a wearable wind shift calculator device for competitive regatta sailing to be used in connection with a magnetic compass or a GPS device giving a similar course reading.
The present invention also relates to a method for calculating wind shift during competitive regatta sailing using a magnetic compass or a GPS device giving a similar course reading.
Background art
Being able to make quick course and direction decisions based on sudden changes in wind direction is crucial in competitive sailing. It is important to have a good memory for remembering multiple compass courses and good math skills in order to relate changes in wind direction to strategic changes in sailing direction. When many other challenges in a regatta are in play, it is difficult to keep hold on all the many numbers and the related math and their history.
Today's modern technology with digital compasses and other instruments displayed with digits in LCDs has made it even more challenging to be able draw conclusions based on a large quantity of data, while maintaining a simple overview. In these situations, it is often desired to store numbers and make simple visual calculations and store an overview in a place which is always within reach and which is independent of a power source and also weather-resistant.
Summary of the invention It is an object of the present invention to wholly or partly overcome the above disadvantages and drawbacks of the prior art. More specifically, it is an object to provide an improved wind shift calculator device which is easy to use during competitive sailing. The above objects, together with numerous other objects, advantages and features, which will become evident from the below description, are accomplished by a solution in accordance with the present invention by a wearable wind shift calculator device for competitive regatta sailing to be used in connection with a magnetic compass or a GPS device giving a similar course reading, comprising
- a basic casing having a first casing face and a second casing face,
- a compass ring which is rotatably arranged between the basic casing and a console, the basic casing and the console being connected to each other, the console having a first console face and a second console face, the second console face being adapted to partly abut the first casing face, and
- a wind dial having a first dial face and a second dial face, the second dial face being partly movably connected with the first console face,
wherein the first console face comprises a scale area having a degree indication scale, and the wind dial comprises an aperture arranged substantially opposite the scale area so that the scale area is visible through the aperture, so that when a new course reading is given by the compass due to a wind shift, the wind dial is moved accordingly in relation to the first console face, whereby the resulting calculation of a course change can be read on the scale area through the aperture.
The wearable wind shift calculator device according to the present invention works as a mechanical circular slide rule calculator and as a device for setting and remembering wind directions and important compass courses when sailing regattas. It supports the user's ability to remember compass courses and make calculations in order to be able to see trends in changes of the wind directions and their impact in order to be able to sail the shortest route in a racing course. It is furthermore a robust, weatherproof, easy to operate solution that will be able to stay within reach and visual contact at all times. Furthermore, a mark ring having one or more projected indicator(s) may be rotatably arranged between the compass ring and the basic casing.
In addition, a first shim plate may be arranged between the mark ring and the compass ring. By arranging the first shim plate between the mark ring and the compass ring it is obtained that the mark ring is separated from the compass ring, whereby joined rotation of the different parts are avoided. Moreover, a lock ring may be arranged between the basic casing and the compass ring or the mark ring for locking the rotation of the compass ring and/or the mark ring in relation to the basic casing and the console. The device can then be locked at initial settings, while still allowing for temporary adjustments for wind shift with an immediate resulting calculation for all important angles. By using the wind dial from an initial reference point, the user will gradually get a much clearer overview of trends in wind shift as the original setting can be saved as reference by locking the device. The users can easily return to the "nominal" wind situation by resetting the wind dial.
Additionally, a second shim plate may be arranged between the lock ring and the compass ring or the mark ring. By arranging the second shim plate between the lock ring and the compass ring or the mark ring, it is obtained that the lock ring is separated from the compass ring or the mark ring, whereby joined rotation of the different parts are avoided.
Furthermore, the compass ring may have a 360 degree scale extending around its circumference, so that the 360 degree scale is visible around the wind dial. Moreover, the first dial face of the wind dial may be round and may have a wind direction marking, a starboard closehaul marking, a port closehaul marking, a startingline angle starboard side marking, a startingline angle port side marking, a starboard reach marking, a port reach marking and/or a jibe marking. Hereby it is obtained that a wind shift can easily be identified at starboard or port close haul markings and the wind dial can be rotated accordingly without moving the compass ring, the mark ring or the lock ring. The other important main markings will change accordingly to new compass readings. The resulting calculated change in wind angle can be read in the indication scale in the aperture of the wind dial. At any time, the wind dial can be reset back to 0 degree wind angle in aperture of the wind dial - thus restoring all the original nominal compass readings for all the important main markings identified at the start of the race.
In addition, the wind direction marking may be positioned at the periphery of the round first dial face, the starboard closehaul marking may be positioned on the left side of the wind direction marking at the periphery with substantially a 45 degree angle in relation to the wind direction marking, the port closehaul marking may be positioned on the right side of the wind direction marking at the periphery with substantially a 45 degree angle in relation to the wind direction marking, the starting line angle starboard side marking and the starting line angle port side marking may be a plus indication and a minus indication, respectively, and may be arranged on opposite sides of the starting line marking, the starting line marking extending from the periphery inwards against a centre of the first dial face and being arranged substantially 45 degrees from the starboard closehaul marking, a wind shift indicator line may be arranged on the opposite side of the starting line marking, on both sides of the aperture, the starboard reach marking and the port reach marking may both be arranged at the periphery with 45 degrees from the starting line marking, and the wind shift indicator line and the jibe marking may be arranged substantially opposite the wind direction marking.
Furthermore, a handle may be arranged in connection with the first dial face of the wind dial.
Moreover, the aperture may have a curved shape, the curved shape following the periphery of the wind dial, and the scale area on the console may have substantially the same curved shape as the aperture.
Additionally, the basic casing may comprise a plurality of internal helical ramp surfaces which together with the lock ring acts as an internal adjustable vice or locking mechanism which can either lock the moving parts completely or be adjusted to have them move with a desired friction. The lock ring can be rotated clockwise, resulting in a gradually increasing friction of the movable parts up to a point where the parts can no longer be rotated . The user can hereby choose how easily the rotating elements can move. This is helpful, as it prevents unintended changes of the settings (rotation) of the compass ring and the mark ring. By tunring the lock ring anticlockwise until it stops, the compass ring and the mark ring can be rotated freely.
Furthermore, the wind dial may be held in position by a spring tip of the console that acts upon a tooth gear-shaped rack protruding from the second dial face of the wind dial, the wind dial is connected with the console by a bayonet mount arranged at the console, and a small lock pin protruding from the second dial face is adapted to slide over a ramp of the console into a groove arranged in the console, causing the wind dial to be locked for limited rotation. The present invention also relates to a method for calculating wind shift during competitive regatta sailing using a magnetic compass or a GPS device giving a similar course reading and the wearable wind shift calculator device according to any of the preceding claims The method comprising the steps of:
- setting the wind dial to neutral in the aperture,
- measuring a nominal wind direction by means of the compass,
- setting the compass ring to the measured nominal wind direction opposite the wind direction marking of the wind dial,
- measuring a starboard close haul course or a port close haul course by means of the compass,
- comparing the measured starboard close haul course or the port close haul course with the set courses on the starboard close haul marking or the port close haul marking,
- setting the starboard close haul marking or the port close haul marking on the measured starboard close haul course or the port close haul course is different from the set courses by moving the wind dial accordingly, and
- reading the calculated wind shift on the scale area through the aperture. The method may further comprise the steps of:
- measuring the course to the wind ward mark, and
- setting the projected indicator of the mark ring opposite the measured wind ward mark course in relation to the compass ring. In addition, the method may further comprise the step of
- locking the compass ring and the mark ring by turning the lock ring.
Brief description of the drawings The invention and its many advantages will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, which for the purpose of illustration show some non-limiting embodiments and in which
Fig. 1 shows the wearable wind shift calculator device according to the present invention in exploded view,
Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the wearable wind shift calculator device, Figs. 3-4 show the wind dial and the console,
Figs. 5-6 show the function of the wearable wind shift calculator device, and
Fig. 7 shows the wearable wind shift calculator device ready for use.
All the figures are highly schematic and not necessarily to scale, and they show only those parts which are necessary in order to elucidate the invention, other parts being omitted or merely suggested.
Detailed description of the invention
Fig. 1 shows the wearable wind shift calculator device 100 according to the present invention in an exploded view, and Fig. 2 shows the wearable wind shift calculator device 100 in a cross-sectional view. The wearable wind shift calculator device 100 is for competitive regatta sailing and intended for use in connection with a magnetic compass (not shown) or a GPS device giving a course reading similar to that of the magnetic compass.
The wearable wind shift calculator device 100 comprises a basic casing 1 having a first casing face 50 and a second casing face 51, a compass ring 6 which is rotatably arranged between the basic casing 1 and a console 7, the basic casing 1 and the console 7 being connected to each other. The console 7 has a first console face 52 and a second console face 53, the second console face 53 being adapted to partly abut the first casing face 50, and a wind dial 8 has a first dial face 54 and a second dial face 55, the second dial face 55 being partly movably connected with the first console face 52. The basic casing 1 holds the other parts together along with console 7 which is fixed to the basic casing 1 by two screws 9. The geometry of the part allows for mounting the device 100 on the wrist, making the device 100 portable and wearable. The basic casing 1 also holds a plurality of internal helical ramp surfaces 10 which together with the lock ring 2 acts as an internal adjustable vice or locking mechanism which can either lock the moving parts completely or be adjusted to have them move with a desired friction. The lock ring 2 cooperates with the basic casing 1 in order to form an internal locking mechanism for the moving parts.
Furthermore, a second shim plate 3 is a part that separates the lock ring 2 from the mark ring 4 in order to prevent an undesired rotation of the mark ring 4 when adjusting the friction or locking with the lock ring 2. The mark ring 4 works as an extra compass indication together with the compass ring 6. This part can be set independently for remembering the compass course to the top and bottom windward marks in a sailing regatta.
A first shim plate 5 is a part that separates the mark ring 4 from the compass ring 6 in order to adjust the rotation of either of them without rotating the other. This is achieved by the first shim plate 5 with a nose and groove connection 12 to the console 7 that prevents rotation. The compass ring 6 works as a rotational indicator for remembering important compass courses and may have a 360 degree scale as shown in Fig. 1. The console 7 holds all moving parts together along with basic casing 1.
The wind dial 8 comprises the main graphics that form the measuring marks in order to read compass courses from the compass ring 6. It furthermore provides additional incremental adjustment when all other parts are locked. Together with the compass ring 6 and the indicators 13 on the mark ring 4, the wind dial 8 provides reading of important courses for memory help in order to notice and calculate shifts in the wind direction. The wind dial 8 can also accommodate temporary adjustments without moving compass ring 6 or mark ring 4.
The lock ring 2 can elevate from the basic casing 1 by rotating the lock ring 2 for instance clockwise. The rotation is provided by four helical ramp surfaces 10 on each part. This rotation will not affect rotation of the mark ring 4 as the parts are also separated by the second shim plate 3 with a nose and groove connection 12 to the console 7. This mechanism can gradually increase friction or locking of the rotation of the mark ring 4 and compass ring 6 to a desired level by turning the lock ring 2 clockwise. By turning the lock ring 2 anticlockwise, the friction decreases and the compass ring 6 and mark ring 4 can be completely unlocked for adjustments. The basic casing 1 provides means 11 of attaching the device 100 to the wrist by a strap or to a loop in a belt or even to other sailing equipment, for instance a PFD. Furthermore, the first console face 52 comprises a scale area 56 having a degree indication scale, and the wind dial 8 comprises an aperture 20 arranged substantially opposite the scale area 56, so that the scale area 56 is visible through the aperture 20, so that when a new course reading is given by the compass or GPS device due to a wind shift, the wind dial 8 is moved accordingly in relation to the first console face 52, whereby the resulting calculation of a course change can be read on the scale area 56 through the aperture 20. The wind dial 8 may be moved clockwise or anticlockwise in relation to first console face 52 in response to the wind shifts, i.e. dependent on whether the wind heads or lifts, whereby the course change may be rapidly calculated.
Fig. 2 shows in a cross-sectional view how the different parts of the wearable wind shift calculator device 100 is connected and mounted in relation to each other.
Fig. 3 shows how the wind dial 8 can be adjusted by incremental adjustment steps, the wind dial being held in position by a spring tip 16 from the console 7 that acts upon a tooth gear-shaped rack 17 protruding from the second dial face 55 of the wind dial 8. The wind dial 8 mounts to the console 7 by a bayonet mount 14, and a small lock pin 15 slides over the ramp 18 into the groove 19 and hence locks the wind dial for limited rotation. It can later be detached for exchange by lifting the lock pin 15 out of the groove 19 and turning the wind dial 8 further clockwise. Fig. 4 shows the aperture 20 with a wind shift indicator line 21 in the wind dial 8 that provides a view to the degree indication scale 22 of the scale area 56 on the console 7, which shows the resulting incremental change of angle of rotation (the resulting wind shift). The upper half 22a of the degree indication scale 22 may be coloured red for changes to port side, and the lower half 22b of the degree indication scale 22 may be coloured green for changes to starboard side. Main wind angle is indicated by the wind direction marking 23, here in the form of an arrow. Two symbols in the form of a boat illustrate starboard close haul 24 and port close haul. A handle 26 is used to turn the wind dial 8, while the compass ring 6 and the mark ring 4 are locked. The markers 27 at 10 degree increments are helpful for evaluating downwind angles. A starting line indicator 25 helps to see if the starting line is non-perpendicularly biased windward at one end. Moreover, the first dial face 54 of the wind dial 8 may be round and may have a wind direction marking 23, a starboard closehaul marking 24, a port closehaul marking 24', a starting line angle starboard side marking 30, a starting line angle port side marking 30', a starboard reach marking 31, a port reach marking 31' and/or a jibe marking 29.
In addition, as seen in Fig. 5, the wind direction marking 23 may be positioned at the periphery 35 of the round first dial face 54, the starboard closehaul marking 24 may be positioned on the left side of the wind direction marking 23 at the periphery with substantially a 45 degree angle in relation to the wind direction marking 24, the port closehaul marking 24' may be positioned on the right side of the wind direction marking 23 at the periphery with substantially a 45 degree angle in relation to the wind direction marking 23. The starting line angle starboard side marking 30 and the starting line angle port side marking 30' are a plus indication and a minus indication, respectively, and are arranged on opposite sides of the starting line marking 25. The starting line marking extends from the periphery inwards against a centre 36 of the first dial face and is arranged substantially 45 degrees from the starboard closehaul marking 24. Furthermore, a wind shift indicator line 21 may be arranged on the opposite side of the starting line marking 25, on both sides of the aperture 20. The starboard reach marking 31 and the port reach marking 31' may both be arranged at the periphery 35 at an angle of 45 degrees from the starting line marking 25, and the wind shift indicator line 21 and the jibe marking 29 may be arranged substantially opposite the wind direction marking 23.
The wind dial 8 may also comprise other markings or indications in the form of other graphical symbols for assisting in the calculation of the optimum course around the upwind and downwind legs of the race course. In addition, the wind dial 8 may also comprise boat or yacht specific polar diagrams and indications for assisting in the calculation of the best courses and wind angles to the wind compared to the wind shifts.
Fig. 5 furthermore shows an example of use at the start of a sailing regatta. With the wind dial 8 set to neutral in the aperture 20, the compass is first set to the measure nominal wind, which in this example is 245 degrees indicated at the wind direction marking 23. The windward mark is measured at 250 degrees which is indicated by turning the mark ring indicator 13. The mark ring 4 and the compass ring 6 are assumed to be locked by turning the lock ring 2 clockwise. The starboard close haul indicator 24 calculates a nominal course at 200 degrees. The starting line is calculated to be perpendicular (non-biased and neutral) to the wind direction at a bearing of 155 degrees, shown at the port side of the starting line indicator 25. The jibe indicator 29 calculates a jibe at 65 degrees, while the downwind mark indicator 28 of the mark ring is located to the starboard side showing a starboard-biased bear away at downwind.
Fig. 6 shows an example of a wind change with calculations, assuming the original sailed starboard close haul course changes from 200 degrees to 215 degrees indicated at the starboard close haul indicator 24. This has been accomplished by turning the wind dial 8 by the handle 26 about 15 degrees clockwise. The resulting calculations around the dial show that the wind direction must now be 260 degrees shown at the wind direction marking 23. The wind shift indicator line 21 at the aperture 20 in the wind dial 8 reveals a calculation of a wind change of 15 degrees. The jibe indicator 29 reveals a jibe at 80 degrees instead of 65 degrees. The starting line indicator 25 reveals a neutral starting line at a bearing of 170 degrees. The downwind mark indicator 28 has now shifted to the port side, indicating a port side-biased bear way at downwind. Note that the mark ring indicators 13, 28 stay in their correct positions since they are locked together with the compass ring.
The wearable wind shift calculator device 100 may also comprise a watch with known sailing functions, such as for instance audible alarm, 5,4,1,0 sequence or 5 min or 3 min or 1 min programs for countdown in starting procedures, etc. The watch may be waterproof.
The wearable wind shift calculator device 100 is preferably made of plastic material.
Although the invention has been described in the above in connection with preferred embodiments of the invention, it will be evident for a person skilled in the art that several modifications are conceivable without departing from the invention as defined by the following claims.

Claims

Claims
1. A wearable wind shift calculator device for competitive regatta sailing to be used in connection with a magnetic compass or a GPS device giving a similar course reading, comprising
- a basic casing having a first casing face and a second casing face,
- a compass ring which is rotatably arranged between the basic casing and a console, the basic casing and the console being connected to each other, the console having a first console face and a second console face, the second console face being adapted to partly abut the first casing face, and
- a wind dial having a first dial face and a second dial face, the second dial face being partly movably connected with the first console face,
wherein the first console face comprises a scale area having a degree indication scale, and the wind dial comprises an aperture arranged substantially opposite the scale area, so that the scale area is visible through the aperture, so that when a new course reading is given by the compass due to a wind shift, the wind dial is moved accordingly in relation to the first console face, whereby the resulting calculation of a course change can be read on the scale area through the aperture.
2. A wearable wind shift calculator device according to claim 1, wherein a mark ring having one or more projected indicator(s) is rotatably arranged between the compass ring and the basic casing.
3. A wearable wind shift calculator device according to claim 2, wherein a first shim plate is arranged between the mark ring and the compass ring.
4. A wearable wind shift calculator device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a lock ring is arranged between the basic casing and the compass ring or the mark ring for locking the rotation of the compass ring and/or the mark ring in relation to the basic casing and the console.
5. A wearable wind shift calculator device according to claim 4, wherein a second shim plate is arranged between the lock ring and the compass ring or the mark ring.
6. A wearable wind shift calculator device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the compass ring has a 360 degree scale extending around its circumference, so that the 360 degree scale is visible around the wind dial.
7. A wearable wind shift calculator device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first dial face of the wind dial is round and has a wind direction marking, a Starboard Closehaul marking, a Port Closehaul marking, a Startingline angle Starboard side marking, a Startingline angle Port side marking, a Starboard Reach marking, a Port Reach marking and/or a Jibe marking.
8. A wearable wind shift calculator device according to claim 7, wherein the wind direction marking is positioned at the periphery of the round first dial face, the starboard closehaul marking is positioned on the left side of the wind direction marking at the periphery with substantially a 45 degree angle in relation to the wind direction marking, the port closehaul marking is positioned on the right side of the wind direction marking at the periphery with substantially a 45 degree angle in relation to the wind direction marking, the starting line angle starboard side marking and the starting line angle port side marking are a plus indication and a minus indication, respectively, and are arranged on opposite sides of the starting line marking, the starting line marking extending from the periphery inwards against a centre of the first dial face and being arranged substantially 45 degrees from the starboard closehaul marking, a wind shift indicator line is arranged on the opposite side of the starting line marking, on both sides of the aperture, the starboard reach marking and the port reach marking are both arranged at the periphery with 45 degrees from the starting line marking, and the wind shift indicator line and the jibe marking are arranged substantially opposite the wind direction marking.
9. A wearable wind shift calculator device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a handle is arranged in connection with the first dial face of the wind dial.
10. A wearable wind shift calculator device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the aperture has a curved shape, the curved shape following the periphery of the wind dial, and the scale area on the console has substantially the same curved shape as the aperture.
11. A wearable wind shift calculator device according to claim 4, wherein the basic casing comprises a plurality of internal helical ramp surfaces which together with the lock ring act as an internal adjustable vice or locking mechanism which can either lock the moving parts completely or be adjusted to have them move with a desired friction.
12. A wearable wind shift calculator device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the wind dial is held in position by a spring tip of the Console that acts upon a tooth gear-shaped rack protruding from the second dial face of the Wind Dial, the WindcDial is connected with the Console by a bayonet mount arranged at the console, and a small lock pin protruding from the second dial face is adapted to slide over a ramp of the console into a groove arranged in the console, causing the wind dial to be locked for limited rotation.
13. A method for calculating wind shift during competitive regatta sailing using a magnetic compass or a GPS device giving a similar course reading and the wearable wind shift calculator device according to any of the preceding claims, comprising the steps of:
- setting the wind dial to neutral in the aperture,
- measuring a nominal wind direction by means of the compass,
- setting the compass ring to the measured nominal wind direction opposite the wind direction marking of the wind dial,
- measuring a starboard close haul course or a port close haul course by means of the compass,
- comparing the measured starboard close haul course or the port close haul course with the set courses on the starboard closehaul marking or the port closehaul marking,
- setting the starboard closehaul marking or the port closehaul marking on the measured starboard close haul course or the port close haul course is different from the set courses by moving the wind dial accordingly, and
- reading the calculated wind shift on the scale area through the aperture.
14. A method according to claim 13, further comprising the steps of:
- measuring the course to the wind ward mark, and
- setting the projected indicator of the mark ring opposite the measured wind ward mark course in relation to the compass ring.
15. A method according to any of the claims 13-14, further comprising the step of
- locking the compass ring and the mark ring by turning the lock ring.
PCT/EP2014/070362 2014-09-24 2014-09-24 Wearable wind shift calculator device WO2016045721A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/EP2014/070362 WO2016045721A1 (en) 2014-09-24 2014-09-24 Wearable wind shift calculator device

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/EP2014/070362 WO2016045721A1 (en) 2014-09-24 2014-09-24 Wearable wind shift calculator device

Publications (1)

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WO2016045721A1 true WO2016045721A1 (en) 2016-03-31

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ID=51589326

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
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Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4134006A (en) * 1977-04-07 1979-01-09 Gordon Willard F Navigational wind effect computer for aircraft
WO2010010445A1 (en) * 2008-07-23 2010-01-28 Pontarolo Engineering S.P.A. Goniometric rule for defining points of sail as an aid to sailing

Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4134006A (en) * 1977-04-07 1979-01-09 Gordon Willard F Navigational wind effect computer for aircraft
WO2010010445A1 (en) * 2008-07-23 2010-01-28 Pontarolo Engineering S.P.A. Goniometric rule for defining points of sail as an aid to sailing

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