Pixel sur Mer and MDS Design unveil Exocet Flyingshape

Jean-Francois Cuzon, co-founder and CEO of Pixel sur Mer & Benjamin Muyl, MDS co-partner © DR / Pixel sur Mer

The companies Pixel sur Mer and MDS are combining their expertise to launch Exocet FlyingShape, a sail shape measurement solution based on LIDAR technology.

This technology finally makes it possible to visualize, measure, and optimize what, until now, was a matter of intuition and perception: the actual shape of sails at sea. This innovative, fully integrated system is designed to meet the growing needs of professional competitive sailing, high- performance yachting, and wind-assisted maritime transport.

A new dimension for sail trimming and design

In the demanding world of modern sailing, a fine understanding of the real behavior of sails is a strategic lever for performance. A true technological breakthrough, Exocet FlyingShape enables real-time visualization of the exact shape of sails while sailing. Thanks to dynamic reconstruction of the 3D "envelope," crews can trim their sails with unprecedented precision.

Onboard LiDAR sensors continuously scan the sail. The data is processed by the Exocet FlyingShape computer, which models the sail shape and provides key indicators such as the depth of the sail's camber, its position relative to the leading edge, and the twist of the sail.

By linking onboard adjustments, theoretical shapes, and actual measurements at sea, Exocet FlyingShape establishes a direct link between sail shape and performance. Crews gain reliability in their trimming by refining and comparing measured data with reference models. Usable both at sea and onshore, in real-time or post-processed, this data constitutes a strategic asset for trimmers, naval architects, design oTices, and sailmakers. It accelerates the development of new sails, enriches digital models, and contributes to the overall optimization of performance.

A collaboration based on complementarity

Exocet FlyingShape was born from a shared observation: there was a lack of a reliable interface between the adjustments made on board and the performance simulation models. This "missing link," now filled, is the result of a collaboration between two complementary partners, whose relationship dates back over 20 years to the America's Cup:

• Pixel sur Mer, an expert in embedded electronic systems, is responsible for the development, industrialization, and hardware integration of the product, as well as its commercialization, distribution, and long-term maintenance. Exocet FlyingShape is fully integrated into its proprietary EXOCET range, dedicated to smart navigation.

• MDS Design, a recognized specialist in naval architecture, aero-hydrodynamic modeling, and performance prediction, designed the software core of the Exocet FlyingShape solution, integrating advanced analysis and reconstruction algorithms.

A highly compatible and adaptable technological solution for the sail of the future

Exocet FlyingShape is a "plug & play" solution designed for rapid on-board implementation. Integrated into the Exocet ecosystem, and combined with Exocet Blue, Exocet FlyingShape oTers an all-in-one solution: live and dynamic visualization, data cross-referenced with on-board sensors, and easy real-time and oT-line processing. The solution is also compatible with the market's leading navigation and data acquisition systems, which will be able to use the raw data processed by the system. MDS will be able to oTer a post-navigation processing solution for data from the Exocet FlyingShape system.

Designed to meet the specific requirements of diTerent markets, Exocet FlyingShape is aimed at three main user families:

• OXshore racing and professional circuits (IMOCA, Ultim, TP52, etc.)
• Sailing yachts and superyachts
• Sail-powered vessels

Exocet FlyingShape paves the way for automated sail trimming, providing reliable, continuous data essential to the development of intelligent steering and control systems.

Quotes:

Jean-Francois Cuzon, co-founder and CEO of Pixel sur Mer: "We developed the Exocet FlyingShape solution to enable crews to trim their sails more precisely and rationally, while at the same time providing design o=ices and sail designers with usable data for their models. With Exocet FlyingShape, every adjustment has a strategic value: better sail handling means better sailing. Exocet FlyingShape is the embodimen to four ambition: to make cutting-edge, reliable and durable technologies accessible, to push back the limits of performance at sea."

Benjamin Muyl, MDS co-partner: "Exocet FlyingShape, a set of "plug and play" sail measurement products and services, is the fruit of an association between two complementary entities. While MDS masters performance prediction and simulation, Pixel sur Mer brings its expertise in onboard electronics and industrial products. Together, we o=er a ready-to-embark solution designed for the sailors and engineers of tomorrow."