EC12-M2
...add 6.1.a:
6.1.a The beam specification above shall be measured at the sheer where the hull and deck are joined.
While I support a change in the Class Rules to define an accurate measuring point for beam width, I am concerned that the wording of this motion leaves some doubt as to just where the point is where the hull and deck are joined.
The former CS had made a note that the measurement could be made at the deck and hull joint, but the Class Rules only say BEAM. In years past, it was easy to measure the beam because the side of the hull was straight and the deck and hull joint was a clear corner on the edge of the boat. Today our Class-Owned molds produce a slight "tumblehome" curve near the sheer where the deck flange turns. Depending on the manufacturer and the boat builder this tumblehome can be more or less pronounced depending on the building techniques and the materials used.
In the Class Measurement and Certification Policy, I state that the beam measurement should first be made at the widest part of the boat "Beam" at each station. However: IF the beam is too wide (or too narrow), then the measurement could be made at the sheer or the corner of the deck and hull. The first method for measuring, in my opinion, is the simplest choice. You simply place an inexpensive pair of calipers from one side of the hull to the other at the station. Most of the boats, if built to the median class rule, will have no trouble measuring in. It is only those boats that were built with max beam in mind that may need to be more carefully measured at the deck and hull joint. Again, the new policy allows for this without a rewrite of the rules and without changing anything the previous administration had in place.
So, I am open to a rules change that clearly defines the beam measuring point going forward, but I just want to make sure the wording of the rule is not subject to misinterpretation.
Let me hear from you on this motion.