Winged keel

Although Ben Lexcen "had tried the winged keel idea before",[1] there is conjecture that it was computed and designed by a Dutch aerodynamicist at the Wageningen towing tank (Netherlands Ship Model Bassin).

[2][3][4] in May 2024 A detailed article was published by the Journal of Engineering Ethics which came to the conclusion that Lexcen should not have been credited with the invention on the patent application.

[3][6] Each wing acts as a winglet, effectively increasing the keel aspect ratio therefore reducing the lift-induced drag.

[6] The extra low-positioned lead in the upside down keel and wings gives a very low centre of gravity, increasing the righting moment (lateral stability) and allowing to carry more sail area.

Besides the performance benefits, winged keels can also be applied to pleasure boats as a way to reduce draft, allowing for greater versatility when cruising in shallow waters.