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Technical Data: Balance (Centre of Effort)

The image graphically illustrates the manner in which both the Geometric Centre of Effort (C of E) of the rig is determined and how the Geometric Centre of Lateral Resistance (CLR) is resolved for the hull and appendages. The C of E can be regarded as the point through which Aerodynamic Force(s) act whilst  CLR is similarly the point through which the Hydrodynamic Force(s) act. [This image is a screen grab from AutoCAD, only relevant components displayed].

The "LEAD" is the distance between a vertical line through the the C of E whilst being at 90 degrees to the Waterplane (LWL), and, a vertical line through the C of L. For large sloops a Lead in the range of 10-14% is perhaps an appropriate range. It is generally denoted as a percentage of the LWL.  What applies to R/C Yachts is worthy of research.

In  the "Principles of Yacht Design" in the chapter on Balance there is a reference, pge 158, on the Hydrodynamic CLR. The "hydrodynamic CLR is quite far away from the 'geometric` CLR, which is simply the geometric centre of gravity of the under water profile, including hull, keel and rudder" The Hydrodynamic CLR appears to vary in relation to the angle the boat sails through the water (Yaw).

"Sailing Yacht Design: Theory" & "Sailing Yacht Design: Practice" by Claughton, Wellicome & Shenoi has excellent papers by various persons researchers.

The rudder control of a yacht deserves far more attention than it is generally given. The effort required to precisely hold and turn a model yacht even with a ‘balanced area’ rudder should not be under estimated. See information under Rudders