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The
boat is proven seaworthy and has been
subject to an extensive conversion and refit
with the best quality systems money
can buy, in duplicate where possible. However if it does all
go pear shaped, calculations show that even with strong wind,
high seas and a jammed Wingsail (an extremely unlikely event),
it would still be extremely difficult to achieve capsize. Indeed,
when the vessel is surfing down a big sea, the wing itself has
been designed to work in reverse, thereby acting as an effective
drogue.
Should
capzize occur however, Inventure will float upside down with
the floor of the main cabin above water, creating a dry platform
within the centre hull. A built in hoist will enable wheelchair
users to be lifted up. The escape hatch from that area to the
outside would also be above water. There are sufficient built-in
buoyancy areas & water tight compartments to keep Inventure
afloat even in the event of severe flooding of the main or outer
hulls.
The
bow sections of all three hulls are constructed from solid foam,
thereby restricting possibility of through-hull damage from head
on impact or collision.
The
automated wing controls are backed up by a manual system using
ropes.
In
the event of a smashed windscreen, covering blanks can be bolted
into place.
Locking
devices secure the wheelchairs in rough seas.
A
full analysis of safety equipment has been carried out by "Ocean
Safety" of Southampton and their recommendations are being
adopted. |
