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New smart systems on Team New Zealand’s latest America’s Cup boat are beginning to emerge as defenders increase testing and training.
Emirates Team New Zealand were back in the water on Tuesday as they look to take on Te Rehutai, which launched on Thursday night.
Already earning accolades for their design and performance, the Kiwis’ innovative movements are on display during their deft maneuvers.
HAMISH HOOPER / EMIRATES TEAM NZ
The new AC75 Te Rehutai of the New Zealand team at a good pace during the first tests.
The ship undergoes a major deck design change and the reasoning becomes clearer with each departure.
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The trenches that previously housed the 11 sailors have now been converted into deep cabins and have been moved to the gunwales where the deck meets the hull.
The deck itself has been lowered to improve aerodynamics and the ability to clean sprayed water more efficiently.
The most obvious systems change in the way the crew is working now, this seriously modified deck design comes through twists.
Helmsman Peter Burling, Wing Controller Glenn Ashy, and Flight Controller Blair Tuke continue to switch sides while the mills remain static.
But their movements now see them diving in front of the mast instead of crossing the stern of the ship as they did on their first-generation ship, Te Aihe.
HAMISH HOOPER / EMIRATES TEAM NZ
The new AC75 Te Rehutai of the New Zealand team in loading at the port of Waitemata.
The aft area has little room for movement with the lower section of the massive double-walled soft-wing sail sweeping down to deck level.
There was anticipation about what kind of boom system, if any, would apply given the wide variations between the four teams in this key zone.
Sail-World The analysis of the new Kiwi systems was: “The change was evident: a very solid and angled boom structure clearly designed to apply more pressure to the tension of the mainsail of the AC75”.
Burling has also changed its steering position later, now located between two grinding stations.
This will allow you a smoother ride away from the G-forces hitting the rear of the boat during high speed turns.
It also gives you easier access to the mast area for your transitions to the windward side of the boat during these turns.
David White stuff.co.nz
Team NZ’s new boat Te Rehutai is ready and flying for her debut in Auckland.
