Innovation in ocean racing
This winter, the Ocean Fifty Koesio underwent major modifications, including the installation of a new autopilot and an enhanced electronic steering wheel system. Developed by MerConcepten in collaboration with Mobius France and Madintec and used on the Ultim SVR, this device was tested in competition by Erwan Le Roux during Act 1 of the Ocean Fifty Series in Saint-Malo. The skipper expresses his enthusiasm: " I'm blown away by the steering precision achieved with this increased electronic steering wheel system ".
State-of-the-art technology
The augmented electronic steering wheel allows the helm station to be positioned wherever desired, offering unprecedented flexibility and weight savings. Clément Thivin, engineer at MerConcept, explains: " The genesis of the project was to save weight so as to avoid transmitting the entire helm system to the outside, when we decided to move the helm to cockpit level, away from the rudders. The impact on the structure was considerable, but the biggest advantage of this system is that it allows us to place the helm station wherever we want ". The main challenge lay in the electronics, developed in partnership with Madintec and Mobius France. The latter introduced its new-generation autopilot actuator, the Mobius L300-700, which combines speed and robustness.
Collaborative design
MerConcept focused on mechanical implementation, while Mobius France presented its innovative actuator, and Madintec contributed its software and electronics expertise. Matthieu Robert, President of Madintec, commented: " This system makes it possible to steer a boat with extreme precision, sometimes better than that of a sailor in certain conditions ". Thanks to the very short latency between the movement of the steering wheel and the movement of the rudder, sailors benefit from feedback similar to that of aircraft, providing fine, direct sensations.
Multiple benefits
The system provides precise indications of the boat's behavior, enhancing safety and efficiency. Paul-Louis Defrétière of Mobius France adds: " The Mobius L300-700 cylinder is two-and-a-half times faster and twice as strong as existing solutions, while consuming less energy ". This augmented electronic steering wheel system opens up new horizons for racing and pleasure boats, facilitating access to high-performance navigation.
Any other projects?
Erwan Le Roux sees a promising future for this system in racing and cruising yachts: " In my opinion, this will facilitate access to our discipline and open up absolutely enormous prospects ". This system could transform navigation, making boats more accessible and efficient.
