Splashelec

Persons with disabilities often face physical challenges when practicing sports. Recognizing this, Splashelec began exploring how technology could help transform accessibility in sailing. The team turned to mechatronics to develop a control system that would enable disabled individuals to easily pilot a sailboat. Following extensive research and development, they introduced a joystick servo system capable of managing both the rudder and the sails. With this innovation, steering a boat becomes as intuitive as driving an electric wheelchair—only this time, on water.

At Splashelec, the belief is that technology can enable people to enjoy sailing together regardless of age, strength, or disability. With this vision, the company has designed a system using electronic and mechanical components to replace the movements of a failing arm or body, making it possible for more individuals to pilot a sailboat. Splashelec is committed to building a new kind of boat—more inclusive, safer, and constructed with ecological materials. Future developments will integrate data-driven navigation to adapt to weather, tides, and sea depth, as well as autonomous sailing capabilities to ensure that the boat can return safely to the nearest harbor when necessary.

Splashelec supports Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities by making sailing more inclusive and accessible to all. The company’s mission is to provide innovative sailing solutions that allow everyone—regardless of physical ability or background—to experience the freedom and joy of being at the helm. By designing boats with accessibility in mind and collaborating closely with disabled sailors, Splashelec helps break down barriers that prevent people from enjoying this sport. Through its work, the company promotes equal opportunities on the water, ensuring that the thrill of feeling the wind and gliding across the sea is not limited to a privileged few, but shared by a broader, more diverse community.

The 3DEXPERIENCE platform allows to Splashelec to create news solutions:

• Designing and simuling to assembly 3D printed pieces
• Optimizing the design and secure any critical user scenario
• Collecting datas with captors and remote control
• Contributing to develop Sail Social Experience for all by sharing all paramters of its boat trips.

The project begins with steering a sailboat as its first step. The following phases focus on creating a new sailboat design with accessibility at its core. To achieve this, the team plans to sketch different boat shapes and collaborate closely with disabled individuals to validate the concept. They will also engage the sailing community to gather valuable data on tides and ocean depths along various coasts. This information will be used to ensure that both the boat and its passengers avoid hazardous areas. At this stage, the electronic control system will be capable of taking command of the vessel to prevent it from entering dangerous waters. In addition, the team will collaborate with shipbuilding suppliers to incorporate more ecological technologies and sustainable materials into the future vessel.