Abstract: A semi-continuous composite rigging system is provided including at least one discontinuous shroud and one continuous shroud. The discontinuous shroud and the continuous shroud are coupled at their end portions to attachment points on a sailboat or other structure by terminal coupling devices. The continuous shroud is further coupled to the sailboat at one or more intermediate locations between its first end portion and its second end portion. These intermediate locations are coupled to the boat by non-terminal coupling devices. A hybrid coupling device may be used in place of a terminal and a non-terminal coupling device at one or more attachment points on the sailboat. The semi-continuous rigging system provides for achieving a desired balance of certain performance characteristics of a sailboat by utilizing a combination of discontinuous shrouds, continuous shrouds, terminal coupling devices, and non-terminal coupling devices.

Abstract: The invention is a sailboat rigging system and method for forming same. It is formed from a plurality of resin prepreg high strength fiber strands, tows or roving. The fiber are laid out in a preferred rigging configuration with the fiber strands, tows or roving being placed under generally equal tension. The resin in the prepreg fibers bonds the fiber strands, tows or roving to consolidate them together substantially without open spaces therebetween. If desired, the fiber strands, tows or roving can be branched out at branching points to provide for continuous rigging, and selective fibers can be dropped at various sections of the rigging for weight savings.