Vela Pregunta: Ni rueda, ni caña, ETAP32S con EVS

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EVS: Vertical Steering System
Instead of a standard hand tiller, the ETAP 32s can be fitted with the revolutionary ETAP Vertical Steering (EVS ® ) system. The boat is steered via an ergonomically-shaped control which moves in the vertical plane athwartships.
The EVS ® system combines the precision of a tiller with the advantages of a wheel, while eliminating the disadvantages of both. The EVS ® system is supplied with two teak seats and an emergency hand tiller.


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A NEW STEERING SYSTEM FOR SAILING YACHTS.
The steering systems available on the market at the moment are the steering wheel on one hand, the tiller on the other hand. Depending on the local market the transition between the two systems is usually made between 30 and 35 feet.
As traditionally known, both systems have their advantages and disadvantages, so that the discussion between advocates and opponents is nearly as old as the systems themselves.
On the occasion of its 25th anniversary ETAP Yachting has accepted the challenge to develop a third type of steering system, which combines the advantages of both systems and avoids the disadvantages : EVS or ETAP Vertical Steering System.
Concept
The steering of the sailing yacht can be realized by means of an ergonomically profiled helm that moves in a athwartships vertical plane.
Advantages
Security

• good sight since one can take place behind the EVS system
• when travelling on motor the motor control can be done upright, thus without loss of sight.
• simple construction by means of direct geared transmission : foolproof and visually controlable. - firm grip in case of heavy weather conditions
• when sailing backwards, the bigger power on the rudder can be better controlled
• an emergency tiller is provided, exactly like in case of a steering wheel

Ease of use

• direct steering (1/1) by means of geared transmission, so that one can feel well the reactions of the boat.
• position of the rudder is clear
• steering goes in the same direction as the boat (like steering wheel)
• tacking is simple, quicker and doesn't bother the rest of the crew in the cockpit

Ergonomy

• one can stand or sit behind the EVS helm and automatically looks in the sailing direction
• the practical usable part of the cockpit becomes bigger
• the motor control is mounted next to the seat, so that navigating on motor becames easier
• with windward sailing the helmsman - situated on luff-side - will make mainly pushing movements to keep the boat into the same direction. Seated on the cockpit benches, this is a more comfortable position than the traditional pulling at the tiller, which stresses the muscles of the back.
• the EVS system is combined together with a joystick and 2 seats in teak fixed on either side of the pushpit. In this way we can create an extremely comfortable position at broad reaching tacks.
• the stainless steel rudder shaft is mounted in a needle bearing at the bottom, which lowers the pressure on the EVS system considerably.

Practice
In order to test the advantages and solidity of the EVS system a series of trials have been carried out. Eventually ETAP succeeded in obtaining an aesthetically successful and technically correct design.
This design has been tested by a number of yachtsmen who communicated us their findings, and some alterations have been added to the design.
Jesper Bank from Denmark - among others world champion Soling, one of the most successful sailers of the last years and responsible for R & D at Elvström Sails, also tested the system for us. He gave us a very convincing and positive report, with following conclusions :
"a good feeling of balance"
"The ergonomy when you stand is good. The ergonomy when you are beating and reaching is exceptionnaly good"
"Generally it was a positive experience. The system is handy and easy to cope with."