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Dave Schneider
 
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Default mast loads, design

Does anyone have advise on how to calculate mast/sail loads? This is
actually for a solid wing ice boat, but I think if I can understand
traditional mast/sail loads, it should translate to my application. I
don't think aircraft design is applicable here, especially G-forces. The
key point for boats vs. airplanes is that you can only apply so much force,
and then the boat will start to capsize and spill the air. For sake of
example here are some parameters:
weight: 500lbs
sail area: 50 square feet
center of effort on sail (wing): 6 ft high
plank: 14 ft (7ft from hull to runner)
estimated speed (if it matters): 80mph

I don't know how to figure this out with an equation, but by simply
examining movement distances of the CE and hull, it appears that the sail
has a mechanical advantage so the load on the sail would never reach 500
lbs. I also have to account for loads encountered in a gust.

Am I on the right track here? Can anyone recommend some reading on this
matter?

Thanks for any assistance,
Dave