How WindSonic wind sensors can prevent vessels from capsizing

yachtGill’s Ultrasonic Wind Speed and Direction sensor has been chosen to provide critical wind measurement data to avoid capsizing and stability issues on a motor yacht.

A captain of a 48m private motor yacht was concerned that whilst at anchor, if the wind speed and direction changed above a certain threshold the vessel would need to be manoeuvred to avoid stability problems.

The WindSonic wind sensor has been fitted within a VesselWatch integration system which alerts the crew’s radio system and sends a message to the captain in the event of a raised alarm.

With wind speed measurement up to 60m/s and 0-359° wind direction, Gill’s lightweight 2-axis anemometer is well suited to the marine application. The WindSonic is maintenance- free and benefits from solid-state technology, which removes the need for moving parts like traditional cup and vane sensors, to offer a true fit and forget installation.

“If the captain is not alerted and the wind speed and direction are within critical parameters the vessel can capsize or be forced into impacting its surroundings.” states Matt Wright from Globalview Systems, who supplied the WindSonic. “The crew use this data for their own operating procedures to minimise the risk to the vessel and crew.”

The WindSonic has been installed into a varied range of applications throughout the marine industry to provide valuable wind measurement.