Groupama Team France winning its first race of the season in Oman
The level of simulation and CFD analysis in Americas Cup yacht racing is unsurpassed by any other sport, and now Esteco has furthered its interest by becoming supplier for Groupama Team France.
Led by Franck Cammas, Michel Desjoyeaux and Olivier de Kersauson, the French entered the competition for the 35th America’s Cup less than a year ago and secured its first victory in the Americas Cup World Series in February in Oman skippered by Adam Minoprio.
The French team will use Esteco’s modeFrontier optimisation technology to maximise the hydrodynamic and aerodynamic performance of their catamarans, helping designers make the most out of their simulation data and refine design parameters.
The simulation plays a key role in fine-tuning the hydrofoils of the craft, optimising all the components for these within the CAD model, as well as the ‘wing’ structure (the giant mast) and the overall structure.
As design specifications get tighter and time for physical testing becomes shorter, engineering technology is increasingly crucial in the race for the America’s Cup.
“Before moving out to high sea, the competition for the oldest trophy in international sport starts from the designer’s desktop,” explained Esteco president Carlo Poloni.
“The more sophisticated the software engineers have at their disposal, the quicker they will find the best design solutions.”
“With a large number of one-design components, significant differences between the boats aren’t feasible anymore. That’s why even the smallest detail can make the difference,” concludes Poloni.
More details on CFD optimization related to the hydrofoil performance will be presented by Groupama Team France at the upcoming modeFrontier International Users’ Meeting, on 17-18 May in Trieste, Italy.
