D.10.1(b) Fittings (Fabricated Brackets)

[MattAdministrator]

Is this (pale greenish colored) bracket (holding a turning block) class-legal? The One Design Rules do not expressly permit brackets. And as we know, “if the rules do not say you can, then you cannot.” In addition, this bracket is made from G-10, a commercially available composite sheet of epoxy and e-glass, but which no where in the rules is permitted. In the rules stipulating materials permitted for (closely related) backing plates {see D.2.3(d)}, only polyester resin-based composites are mentioned, along with filler(?), wood and metal(?).

The OD rules should be clarified by adding “fitting attachments or brackets” (or words to that effect) as a class of optional fitting to the list in rule D.10.1(b). This class of fitting includes (usually small) fabricated plates used to cantilever blocks or cleats from the deck structure. In section F (spars), the fittings for the mast and boom are left optional; should Section D (hull) follow suit?

Optionally, add an introductory paragraph stating that the method to attach each fitting to the hull assembly is optional, leaving it open that custom-fabricated brackets made from any material and attached in any manner are permissible as long as the end result does not increase the (primary or secondary) stiffness or strength of the hull.

In addition, G-10 parts (backing plates and fitting attachment brackets) should be listed as permitted as appropriate. I am told by boat riggers that there are many champion boats with G-10 parts in them. The rules should let everyone in the class know that this commercially available material is permitted for limited uses.

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