In the context of a continuous evolution of its product range, the company proposes to the nautical market a new and innovative solution for which two patent applications were filed.

The latest project of the nautical division of Opac is a retractable laminar roof in aluminium for the upper decks of the yacht, that revolutionizes the classic concept of top.

The innovation consists in the possibility to open, completely or up to the desired extent, a laminar top. With respect to a similar solution in fabric, the top with aluminium slats guarantees a longer life and a greater resistance to water and atmospheric events. The top can be realized in different sizes, depending on the specific requirements of the designers of the boat, and is therefore adaptable to any roofing.

Top opening is managed by a hydraulic system. The motion toward aft allows the translation of the slats which are “packed” in rest position leaving the deck below open. The opening and closing operations take place in a very short time. The company is developing a new design of the top that will ensure an even greater brightness.

For the mechanisms that operate this innovative roofing solution, two specific patent requests were submitted.

To enhance the product also from the point of view of style and to enrich the look of the areas, Opac has taken care of the finishes and of each aesthetic detail of the new product, expanding the range of customizations. The slats that compose the top can be lined, in the lower part of the structure, with linings of different type, material, texture, shade, to complete the style in line with the furnishings and the colours of the underlying yacht areas. Many customizations are offered for every type of setting: for instance, it will be possible to line the underside of the top with a fabric in harmony with the furniture or the floor.

The upper area of the slats can be also be covered by a rich variety of linings with characteristics which are suitable to the marine environment. Also in this case the company provides the customer with a wide choice of materials and colours. It is planned the possibility to line the top of the roof with thin photovoltaic panels.

As regards the components, according to the established tradition of the company, particular attention was paid to the use of luxury materials with specific treatments suitable to a brackish environment.

The retractable laminar top in aluminium, in the category Deck equipment, sails and rigging, has been nominated by the jury for the "DAME - Design Award 2017" of the Amsterdam METSTRADE, the most important European and world-wide fair on naval components that will be held in Amsterdam next November. For DAME Design Award 2017 competition 64 products from a total field of 122 entries from 22 countries have been nominated to enter the final round.

Opac will attend the Metstrade, inside the SuperYacht Pavilion, with its stand (11,409), where the entire production for the naval sector will be presented.