Measurers have received training from the ORC on laser scanning hulls for ORCi, an important and essential service for boat owners.

Under ORCi, knowing the shape of the hull is important and accuracy matters. An accurate model of the hull shape is used by the ORC software to predict the boats speed and its stability. Both are important factors in calculating a boat’s performance potential and rating, the latter also helps assess a boat’s safety for different category races.

The training delivered by Zoran Grubisa and Alberto Pindozzi showed Sydney measurers how to use a Leica RTC360 Laser Scanner to create a points cloud that captures the shape to millimetre accuracy. The data is then converted into an ‘Offset File’ which is the format used by the ORC’s software.

The ORC's Zoran Grubisa (L) and Australian Sailing's Chris Zonca (R).

The need for measuring services is brought about by a move away from using designer provided data. The issue being responded to is that hulls being built can, and indeed do, vary from the original drawings. Relying on the original CAD drawings may mean a boat has an incorrect rating. The ORC is an organisation that prides itself on being meticulous and the accuracy of its ratings, so it must rely on accurate data.

The Leica RTC360 Laser Scanner in position.

Michael Lockley from the Royal Prince Alfred yacht Club is a Sydney based measurer and CEO of registered surveying group LTS. Michael provided the scanning equipment and ran the operational side of the training day conducted at the Woolwich Marina under the experienced eye of David Kellett. Chris Zonca from Australian Sailing’s office joined other measurers in learning the process. A single hull takes around 2 hours to scan, including the time to set up and pack up the scanning equipment. The boat still needs to be levelled on a hardstand area with reasonable visible access around all sides and underneath. Once a hull is scanned, the data remains valid for the life of the boat, unless of course there are later modifications made to the hull or its fins.

For more information about ORCi go to our website here.

By Glen Stanaway.