THE NEW AEOLOS FLYING DUTCHMAN
The latest developments in the FD have driven up the price - in our opinion, that doesn't have to happen. The shape is optimized to the limit - according to CFD software, modifications only bring speed increases in the per mille range. The shape of the new boats from Planatech and Mader use tolerances down to one millimeter - anyway, only +/- 6mm are possible.
An FD should be maximally full in the bow (Section 9), maximally narrow in the middle (Section 5) and maximally wide in the transom, with as little curvature as possible in the longitudinal direction. This results in so little further room for manoeuvre that resistance changes are no longer measurable.
Picture above: The magenta zone (line thickness) is exact the tolerance, which is possible inside the measurement rules. Compared to the original plans from 1956 the aft section can be flat up to 2,2m length, which optimizes (theoretically) the planning abilities. The difference in the angle of the exit lines in the transom is max. 0,25 degrees. The possibilities in optimizing a modern FD lines plan are less than 0,05 degrees, that means, the change in resistance is not longer relevant ... we can be sure, that a Flying Dutchman offers fair and competitive sailing for decades.
Aspects leading to victories
The following factors offer far more potential for optimisation:
- Reliability (finish all races, do as little tinkering
as possible and train a lot)
- Easy maintenance (all lines and fittings
are accessible and quickly replaceable)
- Wind resistance (from 10 knots wind upwind
more than 50% of the total resistance)
- Handling (All trim devices can be operated
with little friction and are optimally arranged)
- Durability (being able to sail as long as possible
with his proven boat)
- Possibilities for upgrades (new trimming devices
are easy to install)
- Cost (makes the class more attractive and brings larger fields)
- Optics (gives pleasure)
