ISTEC’s redeveloped parasailor² is a breakthrough in sail design and will set a new standard in sailing.
The special features of the parasailor² mean that it is a replacement for both traditional spinnakers and also gennakers.
The sail is divided into an upper and a lower section. This allows a profiled, three-dimensional, pressure–filled wing to be positioned into the air current of the opening between the two sections. This wing was developed in a similar way to a paraglider or kite surfer ram air kite using a special profile and it creates considerable forward motion (1) and lift (2). This decreases the horizontal force (3) on the spinnaker head and the resulting moment, and relieves considerably the pressure on the bow. Because of the internal force, the wing part of the parasailor² acts as lateral support and stabilizes the sides.
Safety
Rolling, yawing, pitching and broaching have been the main risks in sailing under spinnaker. Heavy seas and squally winds can result in even an experienced crew losing the spinnaker or, in the worst case, the whole rigging. The parasailor² uses intelligent, patented technology to shift the sail’s centre of pressure, which reduces this problem considerably. The valve function of the opening in the parasailor² dampens gusts as surplus air can quickly escape but at the same time it creates buoyancy .
Sailing comfort
The lift of the wing relieves the pressure on the bow considerably and reduces rolling, yawing and pitching. Despite higher speeds, this allows much more balanced steering and greater sailing comfort. The ISTEC – sock with the newly developed oval carbon fibre funnel makes it considerably easier to hoist and lower the sail .
Performance
The ISTEC parasailor² makes it possible for the first time to use one sail as spinnaker and gennaker, while at the same time improving performance. It can be used between 70 and 180 degrees to the wind. By relieving the pressure on the bow, and through the stabilising effect of the parasailor², the effectiveness of the rudder is increased and fewer rudder adjustments are needed.
