WEST 1

First project of the WEST series

6/20/20262 min lesen

Fully 3D printed radio controlled sailboat

We are thrilled to introduce the newest project in the WEST series. With the development of the SOUTH prototype series now complete, it was time to implement all of our planned improvements.

The result of this work is the WEST 1. While it might look like the SOUTH 4 design at first glance, a closer inspection reveals numerous upgrades and optimizations. Here are a few of the key changes:

Redesigned hull shape
Longer and stiffer keel
Lighter ballast
Rudder moved further aft
Enclosed hull with an inspection hatch
Spreaders and a separate jib mount
Hollow mast
Dedicated servo mounts

The main feature is the redesigned hull, which now accomodates a two-cell 18650 battery pack laid flat along the bottom. The keel passes completely through the hull to ensure a highly secure fit. We also extended it tot 25 cm, maximizing the full build volume of a 256x256 mm 3D printer. Increasing the leverage allowed us to reduce the ballast, improving the yacht's hydrodynamics while cutting down on required materials.

Additionally, the hull is now almost full enclosed and features an inspections hatch in the aft section. The hatch rests on a custom-designed support structure. In the future we plan to addslots for small retaining magnets to hold the hatch down. However, we first need to test how these magnets might affect the range and signal quality of the RC transmitter.

The rudder mechanism currently remains the same as in previous models, utilizing a standard cable and winch setup. We are, however actively testing a 3D-printed pushrod solution. From the very beginning, our goal has been to minimize the number of off-the-shelf hardware components the customer has to buy, which is why we are exploring alternatives to traditional steel pushrods.

FInally, the mast is now hollow. This reduces weight while maintaining the necessary strength and flexibility. To make 3D printing easier, the lower spreader, upper spreader, and jib mount are now
slip-on attachments that can be printed separately. This allows the builder to easily adjust their positioning along the mast or swap them out quickly in case of damage.

The WEST 1 is now available in our store. Grab the complete model or individual parts today!

WEST 1

RC sailing