Institution news
Simon Porter IEng MIMechE, Wessex Young Members Chair, was delighted to introduce Andy Claughton, Chief Technology Officer at Land Rover BAR, to an audience of over 180 people at a recent Institution technical lecture.
Simon said: “Andy is one of the world’s most accomplished and experienced America’s Cup designers, having been involved with the competition since 1983. We were thrilled that he was able to take the time to give us these insights.”
The lecture was held at The Camber, the team’s stunning Portsmouth HQ. Andy talked from the stage known as the ‘Flight Deck’ about the engineering challenges involved in design and modification of the yachts.
Following his talk, there was exclusive access to the ‘Tech Deck’, which houses a number of pieces of technology demonstration equipment, providing attendees with an opportunity for hands-on exploration of models and materials. The Tech Deck is also open one day a week exclusively for Key Stage 3 school students, so that they can get an understanding of the engineering and materials issues involved in the sailing challenge.
The evening was organised by Simon and other YM colleagues in the Wessex area. Simon is also a member of the Portsmouth and Isle of Wight Area Committee.
He said: “Two hundred people bought tickets, which were £10 for Institution members as we had significant room hire costs to cover. We were delighted with the interest shown and the high attendance for what was a very relevant and popular event.
“There is naturally a high level of interest in sailing in the area and many people came from various marine companies. From the terrace at The Camber, you could see where the America’s Cup racing stage took place just a few weeks before.
“Andy covered a lot of the technology about the boat, though he obviously needed to keep details confidential, as it’s a very competitive situation. He described the dynamic between speed, technology, operation of sails and the effects of the sailing strategy. He talked about the history of the America’s Cup, and how the focus is on the team performance as competitors’ boats are very similar. As with F1, the aim is to get the best out of the machine within the regulations and with regard to the weather conditions at the time. He explained the technical issues with planing, foiling, and even the sail fabric (which is made of the same plastic that is used to shrink-wrap groceries).”
A survey was sent to the evening's attendees, with respondents giving the event an 8.7 rating out of 10. Among the feedback, one respondent called the event “inspirational”, and others commented:
“It was highly relevant following the racing off Southsea and gave fascinating insight to the engineering.”
“This was a great opportunity to meet other engineers of other disciplines. The whole evening was really interesting and my son and I very much enjoyed visiting this very special and exciting project!”
“A great, interesting event on the engineering inputs to high performance sailing.”
Further photos are available via the Wessex Region Facebook page.