20170329

Marinus called to discuss how to plot the hull panels on mylar film. Rather than using HPGL files, Marinus asked to send a DXF file which Marinus can process and print. Instead of plotting the patterns on sheets of 100cm high it is OK to use the full height of 122cm. The only thing is to use separate layers for hull panels, connectors and sheets. This means that I will revise part of the YOT Hull Design program to improve the DXF output. Marinus suggested to test with Drawsight which is a free 2D CAD program.

Gunwales

We discussed gunwales: open or closed? We agreed that open gunwales are great for hanging gear but they are not very strong. Closed gunwales are immensely strong and easy to make. Decided to use closed gunwales as on Toophat. On Toophat I used fir for the gunwales. This time I will use oregon pine because I with TooPhat I found that fir is prone to split.

Sleeping Platform

Marinus felt that sleeping on the floor would be damp and cold even in summer. It is much less cold to sleep a little higher up. The sleeping platform must be level. And the weight of the sleeper must be concentrated in the middle of the boat.