How much time do you spend researching the market ? More and more , actually . The developments around foiling , and more specifically , wing foiling , are coming thick and fast . All brands are trying to work on unique selling points to help them stand out from the crowd so that it can end up as more of a marketing war than a design one !
I like to see what is being released and understand why a particular brand has done what they have done .
I have an ever-growing database of what hydrofoils are coming to market and their key design parameters . This helps me see where the market is going regarding its target market .
How long does it take from conceptualisation to the finished article ? This can sometimes be how long is a piece of string ! Taking a winging foil , for example , from initial thoughts to being on the water , testing could be as little as three weeks . Here is a little overview of the process .
Firstly I sit down a try to understand the problem through maths or computer simulation . Once I am happy , theoretically , the problem is solved , I will start sketching the solution into a 3D design programme . Once the 3D design is finalised , I use specialist software to generate the cutting files for the CNC machine , machine the moulds , calculate how much carbon fibre material is required , laminate the wing , and spend lots of time sanding , then hit the water !
Where does the physical magic happen in bringing to life your designs ? I ’ m fortunate to have built my workshop adjacent to my house . As part of the workshop , I built a CNC ( computer
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