Within EPFL-Alinghi project, development of a computer vision for sail measurement.

Among the various tools developed by EPFL labs, the device designed by the Computer Vision Laboratory (CVLAB) aims to provide an accurate and effective measurement of the shape of sails in racing conditions. The CVLAB is currently looking into a simpler interface of this video sequence analysis software for even more rapid data processing.

Sails do not respond in the same way in different weather conditions, under different wind speeds and with different designs. The CVLAB has risen to the challenge of obtaining an accurate image of a 3D object with a single camera. This approach helps to understand how sails react in actual sailing conditions for improved performance. These data can be matched against simulations, thereby contributing to improve simulation tools – a fine example of cross-disciplinary work.