Double-hulled boats have advantages: among other things, you can sail safely upright and sailing comfort is high. But the width means two berths are always needed. Futura Yacht Systems has found a solution to this: they have developed an innovative solution that allows the width of seaworthy catamarans to be adjusted. This is partly made possible by Igus' lubricant- and maintenance-free cable tracks and drylin linear guides.
Futura Yacht Systems' innovation is the world's first width-variable seaworthy catamaran. The width can be reduced to 4.85 metres from the original 8 metres. This is done by retracting the two floats by a sliding mechanism. This makes it easy to use only one berth. This also simplifies lifting by crane and transport on a truck. In addition, as in the automotive industry, the individual components can be produced in a modular design. In total, considerable costs are saved this way.
Innovation through cable tracks
Several maintenance-free products from Igus are used in the float's sliding mechanism. The high-performance plastics developed especially for the maritime environment show their strong properties by being corrosion- and lubricant-free. At the rear of the catamaran, two E4-series Igus cable caterpillars are installed inside the vessel and ensure reliable guiding of cables when the boat is slid together. In addition, there are eight drylin linear guides on the bow and stern. These are also located across the vessel under the cabin. The lightweight guides ensure safe and stable deployment of the float, contributing to the smooth operation of the mechanism.
Future Yacht Systems worked intensively with the firm Judel Vrolijk & Co (the concept) and iYacht (the engineering) to develop the catamaran.
By: Kelly Bakker
Source photos: Futura Yacht Systems GmbH.
