Flex
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Flex is a unique software module enabling leading sail designers to create fast sails. It gives you control of a robust optimization method that explores the complex interaction between wind and flexible sailshapes. Flex enables the aerodynamic, structural and aeroelastic analysis of upwind sails. The Method The Aeroelastic method for achieving optimal sails is very accurate. With comprehensive simulation and analysis features Flex calculates the flying sail shape of your proposed sail design. Cutting-edge technology is used to calculate loads, stress and deformation. Then, user-friendly tools enable the sail designer to modify the initial design and see the result of these changes. Lift, drag and side forces are shown graphically, making it easy to see whether a change to the final mould shape, construction or trim will have a beneficial effect. Optimization process Step 1 Design Step 3 Flying sail shape Using AzureDesign or AzureProject you can design: Apparent True Wind Speed (AWS) Aerodynamic forces Final flying sail shape DRIVE and SIDE force Trimming conditions STRESS distribution/ Corner loads Hull and coach roof Complete RIG Mainsails & Genoas Patches/Panel layout & development Apparent True Wind Angle (AWA) Sailing course angles Now you can START the aerodynamic calculation of DRIVE and SIDE forces. Pressure force Now you can START the calculation of the flying sail-shape and stress distribution over the sail. As sail shape changes AzureFlex automatically calculates the new pressure force and the final flying sail shape in equilibrium with these forces

Flex provides a number of useful results: Pressure due to wind: distribution over the entire sail and each sail section Aerodynamic forces: Lift and Drag Sailing forces: Drive and Side Flying sail-shape Stress Distribution over the sail “Analytical tools are good on two counts: they allow you to compare different cloth manufacturing products against each other, as well as checking the flying shape. I use them a lot with my customers to show them the different trimming techniques.” chris owen (SAIL TRIM COACH) All results are available in both graphical and numerical formats and can be saved...