Starboard Sail's present manufacturing design pathway utilizes several computer programs that enable them to design the sail mold, define the cloth panel structure and then prepare these panels for cutting by an XY laser cutter/plotter.  These computer programs have two specific limiting factors. Firstly, it is very difficult to edit the panels to affect specific changes to the seams and ultimately, change the shape of the sail. Secondly, the cut sail panels still require extensive post-processing by a skilled layout sailmaker on the loft floor.  

SailCAD solves these problems and thus completes the virtual sail loft. SailCAD is a series of AutoLISP routines that function within AutoCAD. SailCAD is integrated into the CAD/CAM path and allows the sailmaker to import the panels from Starboard Sails' design software into AutoCAD and then affect changes to them. SaiICAD then outputs the newly detailed panels for cutter/plotter processing.  

SailCAD is a logical utility for many of Starboard Sails' current sailmaking needs and has the potential of significantly improving both the design and manufacture of sails.
 
U. of T. Engineering Writing Centre 
Last modified  .