An innovative product
The regatta buoys marketed by MC Marine Concept are equipped with a GPS and a small electric motor allowing a dynamic positioning controlled by an application.
"The principle is to avoid anchoring a regatta course with conventional anchor lines" explains Charles Terrin, the manager of MC Marine Concept.
In case of wind variation, this system allows the race committee to quickly move and reposition the buoys, without having to wait for the intervention of the anchor boat. An application allows to easily manage the location of each buoy, providing the ability to leave a pontoon, position the course, and return to port, in complete autonomy.
This innovative system has already proven itself in the SOF, the French Olympic Week, the Sail GP, the National Dragons or in the Classics.
How does it work?
"A few minutes are enough for the assembly" assures us Charles.
"This model of buoy is a kit composed of an inflatable structure equipped with a catamaran hull. The structure is 2m in diameter for a height of 1.3m, but fits in a car trunk once disassembled" .
"The unit is powered by a Minn Kota 360° electric motor, a model used by fishermen when angling in deep waters. The motor's actions are triggered by the GPS, which is linked to an onboard smartphone. A conventional battery powers the unit, which has an autonomy of several hours. It is also possible to equip it with a camera or lighting" says the salesman of MC Marine Concept.
An efficient platform in all regatta conditions
The MarkSetBot maintains its efficiency and autonomy in a wide range of wind conditions:
- 30 knots > up to 6 hours
- 20 knots > up to 9 hours
- 15 knots > up to 12 hours
- 10 knots > up to 16 hours
The implementation limit was set at 35 knots of wind and 3m of swell. It is quite rare that a race committee maintains races in these conditions.
A solution that respects the fauna and flora
The recurrent use of grappling hooks to anchor buoys has an impact on seagrass beds and the sea floor. This technology also avoids the use of single-use moorings, a method used by some clubs.
MarkSetBot, with its limited impact, should be developed on our regatta courses.
