A commercial fittings supplier is promoting the use of loadcells [‘smartlink Nano’] on sheets and rigging
on sailing dinghies and small keel boats like the Flying Fifteen.
 
For the removal of doubt The Technical Committee has reviewed the compliance of such devices with
Class Rule 14 Prohibitions, and concludes that Such devices communicate with an output device (either
a mobile phone or specific marine electronic equipment) using Bluetooth LE . This involves making radio
communications in a range of up to 100 metres. The devices are battery powered. 

• There is non-compliance with Rule 14.5 (Radio Communications)
• There is non-compliance with Rule 14.7 (electric devices not permitted except in Rule 14.4)

14.5 – The device is stated to communicate with its output device (either a mobile phone or specific
marine electronic equipment) using Bluetooth LE. Bluetooth LE is a wireless band which operates in the
2.4 GHz unlicensed radio band, it involves making radio communications (The range is given as
theoretically 100 m and realistically 40 m).

14.7 – The device is battery-powered and is not included in the items specifically permitted in rule 14.4.

14.4 does not mention strain gauges/stress indicators.

Please ensure that these devices are not installed on Flying Fifteens whilst racing.

Pictures for information purposes: