Frequently Asked Questions
What is a VSail Trainer?
The VSail Trainer is a computer controlled, pneumatic powered full sized sail boat simulator. The sailor controls the simulator in the same way they would a standard sail boat, with a tiller for steering, a main-sheet for sail control and their body weight for controlling the heel angle. Various course configurations and wind conditions can be selected to suit any level of sailor from complete beginner to advanced sailor.
An optional "Access Unit" that fits inside the cockpit is also available to allow the VSail Trainer to be sailed by both able-bodied and disabled sailors. The "Access Unit" allows the simulator to be controlled by either a mechanical joystick or an electronic joystick depending on the ability of the sailor.
Who developed the VSail Trainer?
Professor Norman Saunders. He currently runs a neuroscience lab in the University of Melbourne in Australia. You can read more about the development of the Vsail Trainer here:
http://archive.uninews.unimelb.edu.au/news/400/
Where else is the VSail Trainer being used?
There are two VSail simulators in the US that are currently being used with people with disabilities:
How much does the VSail Trainer cost?
A complete VSail Trainer Access and other necessary equipment costs about $40,000.
Who will access to the VSail Trainer?
The goal is to make the VSail Trainer available to as many people as possible. This would be done in a combination of two ways. First the VSail Trainer would have a "home base" where is would be available. Second the VSail Trainer would be transported to different locations in a trailer to expand the reach of this program.
Who will own the VSail?
That is a really good question. The honest answer is we don't know yet. It depends on the funding sources.
Who would "run" the VSail Trainer?
The VSail Trainer would be run by volunteers who would be trained on how to run the Trainer. Volunteers from other sailing programs have discovered that they benefit as much as the people they train and serve. The large number of sailors of Michigan who want to pass on their passion for sailing could provide a base for needed trainers.
How can I get involved?
Since the Virtual Sailing Training program is in the earliest stages of development, the opportunity for involvement is virtually wide open. You can get involved by going to the contact us page and telling us where you interest lies. The initial needs are for financial support, publicity, grant support, future volunteers, and most importantly contacts with people who would benefit from the VSail Trainer.
The VSail Trainer is a computer controlled, pneumatic powered full sized sail boat simulator. The sailor controls the simulator in the same way they would a standard sail boat, with a tiller for steering, a main-sheet for sail control and their body weight for controlling the heel angle. Various course configurations and wind conditions can be selected to suit any level of sailor from complete beginner to advanced sailor.
An optional "Access Unit" that fits inside the cockpit is also available to allow the VSail Trainer to be sailed by both able-bodied and disabled sailors. The "Access Unit" allows the simulator to be controlled by either a mechanical joystick or an electronic joystick depending on the ability of the sailor.
Who developed the VSail Trainer?
Professor Norman Saunders. He currently runs a neuroscience lab in the University of Melbourne in Australia. You can read more about the development of the Vsail Trainer here:
http://archive.uninews.unimelb.edu.au/news/400/
Where else is the VSail Trainer being used?
There are two VSail simulators in the US that are currently being used with people with disabilities:
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Johns Hopkins Medical School, Baltimore (early stages of a clinical trial using their simulator)
- Shake-A-Leg-Miami (will be used in a schools program)
How much does the VSail Trainer cost?
A complete VSail Trainer Access and other necessary equipment costs about $40,000.
Who will access to the VSail Trainer?
The goal is to make the VSail Trainer available to as many people as possible. This would be done in a combination of two ways. First the VSail Trainer would have a "home base" where is would be available. Second the VSail Trainer would be transported to different locations in a trailer to expand the reach of this program.
Who will own the VSail?
That is a really good question. The honest answer is we don't know yet. It depends on the funding sources.
Who would "run" the VSail Trainer?
The VSail Trainer would be run by volunteers who would be trained on how to run the Trainer. Volunteers from other sailing programs have discovered that they benefit as much as the people they train and serve. The large number of sailors of Michigan who want to pass on their passion for sailing could provide a base for needed trainers.
How can I get involved?
Since the Virtual Sailing Training program is in the earliest stages of development, the opportunity for involvement is virtually wide open. You can get involved by going to the contact us page and telling us where you interest lies. The initial needs are for financial support, publicity, grant support, future volunteers, and most importantly contacts with people who would benefit from the VSail Trainer.
