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Stochastic optimization of sailing trajectories in an upwind regatta

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Journal of the Operational Research Society

Abstract

In a sailboat race, the navigator’s attempts to plot the fastest possible course are hindered by shifty winds. We present mathematical models appropriate for this situation, which use statistical analysis of wind fluctuations and are amenable to stochastic optimization methods. We describe the decision tool that was developed and used in the 2007 America’s Cup race and its impact on the races.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland

    Robert C Dalang, Frédéric Dumas, Sylvain Sardy & Stephan Morgenthaler

  2. Paterna (Valencia), Valencia, Spain

    Juan Vila

Authors
  1. Robert C Dalang
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  2. Frédéric Dumas
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  3. Sylvain Sardy
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  4. Stephan Morgenthaler
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  5. Juan Vila
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Correspondence to Robert C Dalang.

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Dalang, R., Dumas, F., Sardy, S. et al. Stochastic optimization of sailing trajectories in an upwind regatta. J Oper Res Soc 66, 807–821 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1057/jors.2014.40

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1057/jors.2014.40

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