ORC handicap calculation, 3D laser scanning

29.08.2014.

ORC Rating systems (ORC International and ORC Club) use the International Measurement System (IMS) as a measurement platform and the ORC Velocity Prediction Program (VPP) to rate boats of different characteristics in size, hull and appendages shape and configuration, stability, rig and sails measurement, propeller installation and many other details affecting their theoretical speed. Boat ratings are calculated from the predicted boat speeds, calculated for 7 different true wind speeds.

The VPP is explained in detail as the base of the ORC handicap system, and a simulation software package can be purchased to study the theoretical boat speeds derived from the calculations when using IMS measurements. Details and order forms are available at the ORC website: www.orc.org.

‘The ORC is the handicap calculation, which will gradually replace the ‘yardstick’ calculation method that has been ‘in use’ for many years stirring a lot of controversy. Perfect for handicap calculation, but the ORC has been proven worldwide that currently it is the most useful to compare the real performance of the various boats. The main difference is that it contains no subjective elements, and each boat’s current handicap rate is determined by a number of technical parameters. In addition, a more realistic one, because it takes into account the wind strength, thus it is more precise in compensating for the differences between the boats alternating with wind power.’ Source: http://hunsail.hu

If it is necessary to survey the parameters of the boat for the ORC handicap calculation, the most reliable way to do that is using a 3D laser scanner. Recently, we have measured several boats by this method.