JPS Concept developed its first Canting Keel management system in 2010 at the request of skipper Vincent Riou for his new IMOCA 60 in preparation for the 2012 Vendée Globe.
Having demonstrated an excellent level of reliability and great flexibility in use, this system was later adopted as the basis for developing the new Standard Keel Management System used on all the new IMOCA 60 class yachts built for the 2016 Vendée Globe, and will remain the standard for the 2020 event.
The IMOCA 60 system uses waterproof control units connected to a Management console with an LCD display and silicon keys.
It manages:
→ The power relay to the hydraulic power generator
→ The solenoid valves controlling each movement (port, starboard, release)
→ Push-button controls to facilitate pivot pin fitting during upgrades
→ The LEDs that indicate the current movement (flashing) and the final positions achieved (fixed)
→ A display showing the keel position in degrees
→ The silicon keys used to configure operating modes, set stop positions and calibrate the system
→ The pressure sensors (up to 3 in On/Off or analogue mode)
→ An actuator position sensor (0/10V or 4/20mA) with protected power supply
→ The relaying of sensor data to the navigation system (0/5V).
→ Safety functions, including active assistance on return to the Release position and actuator sensor emulation in the event of sensor failure
→ Movement sequencing (automatic tacking)
A simplified version without position sensor management, display or movement sequencing, but with the same level of control system management and the same components has been developed to manage Centreboard lifting and/or a simpler form of Keel canting.
This version may optionally be fitted with a remote control and the ability to manage an auxiliary circuit. It is used and distributed by HYDROEM. Both versions operate from 10V80 to 32V DC.
Download the IMOCA MANAGEMENT CONNECTION DIAGRAM as a PDF file
Download the HKM LEVEL 2 KEEL MANAGEMENT schematic as a PDF file