Following some recent threads here I spent part of the weekend trying to work out if I can relocate my traveller to the bridge-deck and got stopped by this question: Does anyone know how to work out the theoretical optimum mainsheet sheeting position??
If:
- a position of 100% of boom length (ie. end-boom sheeting) requires a maximum length of mainsheet for adjustment of the boom through a arc of, say, 160(?) degrees with the minimum amount of effort, and
- a position of 0% of boom length (totally impractical) requires a minimum length of mainsheet with a maximum amount of effort, then
- assuming a loose-footed main (ie concentrated force at 100% of boom length), a Standard crew (reasonably fit male?) and Standard winds (15-20kts?):
Q1 : What sheeting position (in % of boom length) gives the minimum amount of mainsheet for a minimum amount of effort without snapping the boom, and
Q2 : What would the mainsheet tackle ratio be at that position for the typical crew to adjust the main in typical winds??
This must have been worked out by hundreds of designers over the years...