Line tension measurement

[sailworks]

I see again this year that on coverage Swiss Pro - there is device that measures line tension. I have been trying for some time to find a "workable" strain gauge that we can use in boat to measure / record line tension, but not too successful. To the extent that many of us try to understand and emulate what we see (video etc) the more accomplished skier do, it has certainly occurred to me that knowing how much tension (and where in course that tension develops) could be "enlightening" when comparing what us mortals can and do generate vs the more accomplished skiers that we see as technical "role models". So question: does someone know about the device they are using at Swiss Pro?; available to public?; or alternative?

I know there was a strain gauge that crew making "West Coast Slalom" used, but can't seem to find out about that either:(

[DW]

@sailworks: You could make a Wheatstone bridge and install in a jump switch (or have a local HS kid make you one in a shop class).

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wheatstone_bridge

 

[sailworks]

@DW .. thanks for comment / suggestion. I’m really looking for info on the gizmo they are using at Swiss Pro (this year and last). Looks like it should be commercially available !??!

[BraceMaker]

https://swissproslalom.com/officials

 

Ed Roberts should know the details

[herseyj]

Did you ever find the device they are using at the tournaments to get the line tension?

[sailworks]

Nope … still interested! No response here.

[keithh2oskier]

@TonyLightfoot might know. I think TWBC has the line tension on some of their recent broadcasts.

[sailworks]

Thanks -- Yup, seen it there also - but have no idea how to get one???

[Broussard]

@sailworks It is my understanding that the unit used by TWBC was custom built by Vince (owner of TWBC) or he had someone build it for him.

[BobF]

Something like THIS would likely work, but it ain't cheap.

[sailworks]

Thanks! I have something like what you show. It works .. not too well.

Doesn’t it seem like this information would be of considerable interest to skiers working to improve? Just seems like other BOSers would have working instrument!!?

[keithh2oskier]

Not sure how it would improve your skiing to know a peak pull. There would be almost no consistency between different people as an individuals size and strength could have significant differences.

[sailworks]

Well if I can only generate 1/3 the line tension of my mentor at given line and speed .. . there is little hope that fiddling with other nuances of technique is going to allow me to replicate his / her performance. I would know that ultimately have to come close to generating similar load if hope to be successful??