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 offices, 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, 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 offers an all-in-one solution: live and dynamic visualization, data cross-referenced with on-board sensors, and easy real-time and off-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 offer a post-navigation processing solution for data from the Exocet FlyingShape system.
Designed to meet the specific requirements of different markets, Exocet FlyingShape is aimed at three main user families:
- Offshore 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.
They said:
"We developed the Exocet FlyingShape solution to enable crews to trim their sails more precisely and rationally, while at the same time providing design offices 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 embodiment of our ambition: to make cutting-edge, reliable and durable technologies accessible, to push back the limits of performance at sea."
Jean-Francois Cuzon, co-founder and CEO of Pixel sur Mer
“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 offer a ready-to-embark solution designed for the sailors and engineers of tomorrow.
Benjamin Muyl, MDS co-partner
About Pixel sur Mer
On-board electronics for intelligent navigation
Pixel sur Mer designs, develops and installs high-tech onboard electronic systems for ocean racing, yachting, maritime transport, defense and aeronautics.
Thanks to an integrated design office, a field integration department and a specialized fiber optics unit, the company masters the entire technological chain: strain measurement, data acquisition, intelligent processing, automation (rigging, propulsion, piloting) and onboard safety.
Its proprietary EXOCET range includes high-performance solutions for data management, navigation, flight control, autopilot and safety at sea. For over 17 years, Pixel sur Mer has been supporting the most innovative projects, in France and abroad, by offering its customers a single point of contact, recognized for its rigor, responsiveness and ability to adapt to demanding environments.
About MDS
MDS, founded by Benjamin Muyl, Loughlin Dudley and Mathéo Sacaze, builds on the experience acquired by Benjamin Muyl Design over 17 years in the America’s Cup and offshore racing.
MDS offers consulting, research, and design services in the fields of naval architecture, aero-hydrodynamics, performance prediction, and data analysis.
MDS develops and sells a range of performance prediction software called "Meta," which notably covers appendage design, static and dynamic performance prediction and optimization, and virtual and mixed reality simulation.
MDS also develops the core of the sail measurement solution "Exocet FlyingShape.
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mds-muyl-dudley-sacaze/
About LiDAR technology
LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) is a measurement technology that uses laser light to measure distances with high precision.
LiDAR technology, widely adopted in autonomous vehicles, makes it possible to map the environment in three dimensions with high accuracy. It detects and measures the distances of surrounding objects. This innovation plays a key role in the development of intelligent vehicles capable of effectively interacting with their environment.