Laser tracking on the AUDI ALL4ONE

Are keel and rudder exactly in alignment? Are the underwater parts, the deck layout, the chain plate position, the sheet leads symmetrical? Does the shape of the keel and rudder correspond with the specifications of the constructor? Questions, the answers to which can make the difference between fast and slow!

ZUCKER & PARTNER has developed a computer supported laser measurement process for this. The AUDI ALL4ONE regatta ship is analysed with this assistance and its speed has been optimised. The keel mounting of the TP52 of the German-French team was monitored with a precision of one tenth of a millimetre or less and was measured and mounted in alignment with the rudder and/or midship body axis.

Not only measurements of the keel and rudder alignment can be carried out with the new system; also the symmetry of the hull and attachments, the positioning of the mast and fittings and the ability of the hull and its attachments to hold their shape can be checked.

Measurements are carried out with the help of a laser camera, a so-called laser tracker, and initially a virtual coordinates system is determined. Positions to be measured, such as the rudder axis, keel fins and chain plates are marked out with special prisms and/or so-called “Absolute Trackers” and are recorded by the laser camera.

Coordinates are registered in this way in the virtual coordination system. The collected data can be evaluated, precisely measured and graphically represented using a 3-D tool developed by ZUCKER & PARTNER.

As a result, a manifestation and/or virtual 3D model is provided, on which discrepancies in the construction are displayed in colour. Other forces occurring, such as sheet pressures or halyard weights depending on wind strength and speed can be captured and recorded. This enables the targeted optimisation of the yacht as well as quicker sailing performance – not only for the AUDI ALL4ONE.