Improved Sailing Simulator (Physical aka on land)
Recently, I was looking through some old articles about sailing simulators while researching digital training tools. I stumbled upon some interesting images of a laser hull strapped into a computer. The simulator was only able to rotate on one axis, and the based on the screen being used, nobody has attempted a sailing simulator since the early 2000's-2010's. The only other records of physical, land based, sailing simulators include Opti's strapped to giant pneumatic systems and a 420 without any electrical components on a platform that also solely rotated on one axis. My idea is to equip a laser hull with a 3-axis pneumatic mechanism linked to a fully equipped simulator. Ideally, the physical rig with be able to communicate flawlessly with the simulator and translate every movement into a digital action.
The important distinction between the idea of a sailing sim rig and something like a racing or flight sim is the weight distribution and dynamic load. I am by no means a mechanical engineer, but I am enough of a sailor to understand that the way in which a motorized boat hull would interact with an athletic sailor throwing their weight violently around a laser in less than ideal. The main dilemma is how the motors or other components constantly applying torque to the hull in various directions will quickly become damaged or just completely stop, potentially injuring the user. I'm sure that anyone who knows how to roll tack can understand the limited appeal of slamming against a 40 degree wall while trying to right the boat. Somehow, the hull must both react properly to the users body weight, and apply constant torque without stripping the gears.
I will continue to draw and prototype different ideas, but I am fully aware that under normal circumstances this would be a project meriting an entire team and potential years of work. I would highly appreciate and advice, help, or feedback from any sailors or engineers.
One of the simulator websites:
https://www.indoorsailing.com/