WINDHUNTER

[Sybarite]

Fluid logic devices are not terribly new, I recall an overview lecture on them during my undergraduate years. My recollection of exactly how they function is pretty hazy after all these years, but I do remember that one can construct devices which can sense and direct the flow of water or oil in much the same way that transistors sense and direct the flow of electrons. You can then assemble logical operators like AND, OR, NOT etc. and string them together to make fairly simple control automation 'computers' with no moving parts. Since an automatic steering mechanism doesn't require complex logic to perform its functions it would appear an ideal candidate for this technology. Windhunter seem to have solved the problem in a very elegant way. My main concern is that the trailing propeller and line which provides the power could be the weak link in the system. Windhunter does build 'power legs' which should be more reliable but add a significant cost. I wonder if enough power is generated by a boat's own freewheeling propeller to drive the system?

Is this the oldest?