Laser-Guided Sailboat Mast Alignment With a Boom-Mounted Bracket
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mast alignment methods for sailboats are inaccurate and complex, often relying on visual determination and trigonometric calculations, making it difficult to achieve precise alignment under both static and dynamic loads.
Innovation Solution
A laser-guided mast alignment system that projects a vertical laser beam from a boom-mounted bracket assembly, allowing for easy adjustment of shrouds and stays to center the mast without the need for calculations or beam splitters, using a self-leveling laser level as a visual reference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional visual determination and tape measurement methods are used for mast alignment, then the alignment process can be performed with simple tools, but the measurement precision and accuracy are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical measurement tools (tape measures, string, visual estimation) with an optical system consisting of lasers, beam splitters, and cameras. This substitution enables precise measurement of mast alignment and sail shape without requiring complex mechanical measurement apparatus or trigonometric calculations, thereby improving measurement precision while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses cameras to capture images of the mast and sail, creating visual copies that can be analyzed to determine alignment and shape. The laser beams create visible reference lines that are captured by cameras, allowing for precise measurement without direct physical contact or complex mechanical gauges, thus improving accuracy without proportionally increasing device complexity.
2Reliability
If mast alignment is performed under dynamic sailing loads, then the alignment reflects actual sailing conditions, but the alignment changes continuously making stable measurement difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes a fixed reference frame by mounting lasers and beam splitters to the mast itself before sailing. These create stable reference lines that remain fixed relative to the mast regardless of sailing conditions. By establishing these references in advance, the system can accurately measure mast alignment and sail shape even when the boat is under dynamic sailing loads, as the reference lines move with the mast.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses cameras to continuously capture images of the mast and sail relative to the laser reference lines, providing real-time feedback on alignment and shape. This feedback mechanism allows for ongoing measurement and adjustment during sailing, enabling the system to track and correct alignment issues as they occur under dynamic loads, thereby improving reliability without requiring the mast to be perfectly stable.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple people are required to adjust rigging and sails simultaneously, then the alignment can be tuned under dynamic conditions, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a self-contained alignment system where the lasers are mounted to the mast and automatically provide reference lines that move with the mast. The cameras automatically capture images and can provide visual feedback without requiring multiple operators. This self-service capability allows a single person to perform alignment adjustments under dynamic sailing conditions, maintaining adaptability while significantly improving ease of operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables fast and precise mast alignment by providing a true and plumb visual reference, simplifying the process and ensuring the mast is centered and aligned accurately.
Implementation Method 1
a laser emitter connected to the mounting bracket assembly and configured to project a vertical laser beam along a length of a sailboat mast
Data Source
AI summary
A system for mast alignment includes a mounting bracket assembly and a laser emitter connected to the bracket assembly. The bracket assembly mounts to a sailboat boom. The laser emitter projects a vertical laser beam along a length of a sailboat mast when the mounting bracket assembly is mounted to the sailboat boom. A method for mast alignment includes attaching the laser emitter to the bracket assembly; strapping the bracket assembly to the sailboat boom; projecting the vertical laser beam on a rear of the sailboat mast; and adjusting turnbuckles of shrouds and/or stays until the laser beam extends along a center of more than half of a height of the sailboat mast.