PRESENTATION OUTLINE
AUSSIE INVENTIONS:WINGED KEEL
General info
Australian yachtsman and marine architect Ben Lexcen created the winged keel in 1983. It was first seen at the America's Cup on Australia II. The winged keel is a nearly horizontal foil at the base of a sailing boat. They are commonly found in high performance yachts. It benefits boats that are sailing up wind where side force and stability are important. Despite being made for high performance yachts, they can still be used for pleasure boats.
How it works
The winged keel has increased stability mainly due to the extra lead in the wings producing a low centre of gravity. This would give the Australians an edge on the Americans and help them finally beat them back in 1983 when it was invented.
Stability
The wings or foils contain the lead ballast that reduces the amount that the boat leans over. As the wings increase the length of the keel as the boat leans, the lead ends up deeper increasing stability.
Side force
The wings or foils increase the length of the keel as the boat leans over counteracting the side force and reducing how much the boat moves sideways.
