Air inlet and outlet channel structure of vertical air sail
By designing a teardrop-shaped arc-shaped air sail and a gradually expanding streamlined channel with guide vanes, combined with high-strength lightweight materials and protective coatings, the problems of airflow separation and high drag in traditional vertical air sails have been solved, achieving efficient energy conversion and structural stability, and meeting the needs of engineering applications.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- TIANJIN HANLONG TECHNOLOGY CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-07-30
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-12
AI Technical Summary
Traditional vertical air sail devices suffer from airflow separation, high drag, low energy capture efficiency, and lack of optimized material selection and structural design, making it difficult to meet the requirements of efficient and durable engineering applications.
It adopts a teardrop-shaped arc-shaped air sail body and guide plate to form a gradually expanding streamlined airflow channel. It combines carbon fiber and fiberglass materials, with an internal support frame and sealing gasket, and an external high polymer waterproof coating. The design of the funnel-shaped outlet optimizes airflow guidance and energy conversion.
It significantly reduces pressure drag, improves airflow stability and energy conversion efficiency, enhances structural stability and weather resistance, and improves wind energy capture or propulsion efficiency.
Smart Images

Figure CN224225276U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model provides a channel structure, and particularly relates to an air intake and exhaust channel structure for a vertical air sail. Background Technology
[0002] Vertical airsail devices are widely used in aerospace, ship propulsion, and wind energy utilization. Their core function is to guide airflow through a specific structure, converting aerodynamic kinetic energy into mechanical energy or thrust, thus achieving efficient energy capture and utilization. Traditional devices typically consist of a single, vertically positioned sail, often in the shape of a flat plate or a simple arc. Airflow enters from the front of the sail, passes over its surface, and exits, generating the required thrust or lift through changes in the momentum of the airflow.
[0003] However, existing vertical air sail devices have significant defects and shortcomings. On the one hand, the simple shape of traditional sails cannot effectively control airflow, and airflow is prone to separation on the sail surface, forming low-pressure vortex regions. This not only increases the pressure difference between the high-pressure area in front of the sail and the low-pressure area behind it, increasing pressure drag and reducing propulsion or energy conversion efficiency, but may also cause structural vibration, affecting the stability and service life of the device. On the other hand, the selection of materials and structural design of traditional sails lack optimization, making it difficult to achieve lightweight and high strength, and the surface protection is insufficient, making them prone to corrosion and wear in complex environments such as humid and salty conditions, resulting in a decline in aerodynamic performance and failing to meet the requirements of efficient and durable engineering applications. Utility Model Content
[0004] To address the aforementioned problems, this application provides an air intake and exhaust channel structure for a vertical air sail, which solves the shortcomings of traditional vertical air sails, such as easy airflow separation, high resistance, and low energy capture efficiency.
[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, this utility model provides the following technical solution: an air intake and exhaust channel structure for a vertical air sail, including an air sail body, a guide plate provided on one side of the front of the air sail body, and an airflow channel formed between the air sail body and the guide plate;
[0006] Both the air sail body and the guide plate are teardrop-shaped arc-shaped plates, and the convex directions of the plates are all facing the same direction. The wider end of the air sail body and the guide plate is located at the air inlet of the airflow channel.
[0007] Preferably, both the air sail body and the guide plate are made of carbon fiber and fiberglass. The side of the air sail body near the guide plate has a guide arc surface, and the curvature of the side of the guide plate near the air sail body is smaller than the curvature of the air sail body.
[0008] Preferably, the air sail body and the guide plate are fitted with a number of evenly distributed fixing plates, and the air sail body and the guide plate are both provided with a support frame inside.
[0009] Preferably, the inner wall of the airflow channel is streamlined, the overall space is funnel-shaped, the edge of its outlet end is inclined outward at an angle of 30°, the bottom inner diameter of the air outlet is 10cm, the top outer diameter is 20cm, and the expansion ratio is 1:2.
[0010] Preferably, the air sail body and the guide plate are provided with a sealing gasket at the joint with the fixed plate. The sealing gasket is 1cm thick. The outer surfaces of the air sail body and the guide plate are coated with a polymer waterproof coating. The coating is 0.2mm thick.
[0011] One or more technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application have at least the following technical effects or advantages:
[0012] This device employs a teardrop-shaped arc-shaped air sail body and a guide vane, with their convex surfaces facing the same direction and their wide ends aligned with the air inlet, forming a gradually expanding streamlined airflow channel. The curvature of the guide vane is smaller than that of the air sail body, forcing the airflow to accelerate at the channel inlet and flow close to the arc surface, significantly suppressing airflow stripping and vortex generation, and reducing pressure drag. The airflow channel is funnel-shaped with a 30° outward inclination at the outlet edge, allowing the high-speed airflow to smoothly decelerate and diffuse within the channel, effectively converting kinetic energy into static pressure energy and improving thrust or lift efficiency. Simultaneously, the carbon fiber / fiberglass composite material, combined with the internal support frame and uniformly distributed external fixing plates, ensures lightweight and high strength. The teardrop-shaped arc-shaped body and guide vane themselves have a low-drag aerodynamic shape, reducing flow interference. A 1cm thick sealing gasket and a 0.2mm high-polymer waterproof coating ensure structural sealing and weather resistance, maintaining surface smoothness to reduce frictional resistance. In summary, through precise double-arc surface guidance, gradually expanding flow channel design, and the application of low-resistance materials, the airflow is effectively guided, accelerated, and stabilized, maximizing the conversion of kinetic energy into static pressure energy and significantly improving the efficiency of wind energy capture or propulsion.
[0013] Other advantages, objectives and features of this invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following examination or study, or may be taught from the practice of this invention. Attached Figure Description
[0014] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the air inlet and outlet channel structure of the vertical air sail of this utility model;
[0015] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the air intake and exhaust channel structure of the vertical air sail of this utility model from another perspective.
[0016] Figure 3 This is a top view of the air inlet and outlet channel structure of the vertical air sail of this utility model.
[0017] As shown in the figure:
[0018] 1. Air sail body; 2. Deflector plate; 3. Airflow channel; 4. Deflector arc surface; 5. Fixing plate. Detailed Implementation
[0019] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.
[0020] It should be noted that the terms "vertical," "horizontal," "up," "down," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this article are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.
[0021] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains; the terminology used herein in the description of this invention is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the invention; the term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
[0022] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the vertical airsail features a unique air intake and exhaust channel design. Both the airsail body and the guide vane are teardrop-shaped arc-shaped plates with consistent convexity, and the wider end is located at the air intake of the airflow channel. A guide vane is positioned in front of one side of the airsail body, forming an airflow channel. In terms of materials, they are made of carbon fiber and fiberglass composite. The airsail body has a guide arc surface near the guide vane, while the guide vane has a relatively smaller arc on the side near the airsail body. Furthermore, the structure is unique in its fixing and support features. Several evenly distributed fixing plates are fitted around the airsail body and guide vane, and internal support frames are provided. Simultaneously, the inner wall of the airflow channel is streamlined, and the overall space is funnel-shaped, with the outlet edge tilted outwards at 30°. The bottom inner diameter of the outlet is 10cm, and the top outer diameter is 20cm, with an expansion ratio of 1:2. For sealing and protection, the air sail body and the junction of the guide plate and the fixed plate are equipped with a 1cm thick sealing gasket, and the outer surface is also coated with a 0.2mm thick polymer waterproof coating, which effectively ensures the sealing and weather resistance of the device.
[0023] In this implementation scheme, the ingenious combination and synergistic effect of the various components enable the air intake and exhaust channel structure of the vertical airsail to exhibit superior performance in practical applications. The teardrop-shaped arc design of the airsail body 1 and the guide plate 2 not only optimizes the airflow inlet conditions but also effectively guides the airflow smoothly into the channel through its consistent convex direction and wide-end aligned layout. The smaller arc of the guide plate 2 near the airsail body 1 forms a gradually streamlined channel with the guide arc surface 4 of the airsail body 1, forcing the airflow to accelerate at the inlet and flow close to the arc surface, significantly reducing airflow stripping and vortex generation, effectively reducing pressure drag, and improving airflow stability and energy capture efficiency.
[0024] The flared design of airflow channel 3, with its outlet edge angled outward at 30°, features an inner diameter of 10cm at the bottom and an outer diameter of 20cm at the top, resulting in a 1:2 expansion ratio. This unique geometry allows high-speed airflow to smoothly decelerate and diffuse within the channel. Based on the Bernoulli effect, this design efficiently converts the kinetic energy of the airflow into static pressure energy, significantly improving the thrust or lift efficiency of the device and enhancing the energy conversion effect.
[0025] In terms of material selection, the airsail body 1 and the deflector 2 are made of carbon fiber and fiberglass composite materials. This combination balances the lightweight and high strength of the structure. The high strength and high modulus of carbon fiber ensure the stability and durability of the structure under complex airflow conditions, while the corrosion resistance and good formability of fiberglass further enhance the structure's environmental adaptability and cost-effectiveness.
[0026] The uniform distribution of the fixed plates 5 and the arrangement of the internal support frame provide stable support for the entire structure. This design not only enhances the overall strength of the structure but also ensures the shape stability of the air sail body 1 and the guide plate 2 under the action of airflow, preventing structural deformation from affecting the airflow guiding effect.
[0027] The application of sealing gaskets and polymer waterproof coatings further enhances the device's sealing performance, weather resistance, and surface finish. The sealing gaskets effectively prevent airflow leakage, ensuring orderly airflow, while the polymer waterproof coating protects the structure from moisture erosion, extending the device's service life. Simultaneously, it reduces frictional resistance between the airflow and the structural surface, further optimizing the airflow characteristics.
[0028] like Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the vertical airsail's inlet and outlet channels are rich in structural details. From an appearance and layout perspective, the teardrop-shaped arc design of the airsail body and the guide plate provides excellent airflow guidance performance, and the airflow channel formed by the two lays the foundation for subsequent airflow. The use of a composite material of carbon fiber and fiberglass balances strength and lightweight; the design of the guide arc surface and the difference in curvature between the two further optimizes the airflow within the channel. In the fixing and support system, evenly distributed external fixing plates combined with an internal support frame ensure the stability of the airsail body and guide plate under complex operating conditions. The special shape of the airflow channel—the streamlined inner wall and the funnel-shaped overall space—combined with the tilt angle and expansion ratio of the outlet end, greatly improves the efficiency of air exhaust. Regarding sealing and protection details, the thickness of the sealing gasket and the application of a high-polymer waterproof coating effectively prevent air leakage and external moisture corrosion, extending the device's service life.
[0029] In this implementation scheme, the device can also be combined with existing aerodynamic and intelligent control systems during use. Components such as blowers and nozzles guide airflow and enhance wind speed. Simultaneously, sensors monitor airflow parameters, and the processor adjusts the sail angle and channel shape to adapt to different operating conditions. Regarding materials, Toray T700 carbon fiber can be used, combining high strength and lightweight properties; the fiberglass uses a composite structure of unsaturated polyester resin and alkali-free glass fiber mat to enhance corrosion resistance; the polymer waterproof coating uses polytetrafluoroethylene or polyurethane to ensure waterproof and wear-resistant effects, adapting to long-term use in complex environments.
[0030] Specifically, in one or more feasible embodiments, the air intake and exhaust channel structure of the vertical airsail can be installed on existing carriers such as ship masts, wind turbine towers, or aerospace vehicle surfaces. It is connected to the carrier structure using bolts, welding, or specialized fixing clamps to ensure stability and airtightness. In practical use, this device is often used in conjunction with existing airflow regulation equipment such as blowers and nozzles. The blower outlet is connected to the airsail inlet via connecting pipes, and high-speed airflow is injected at specific locations within the channel using nozzles to optimize airflow distribution and enhance the induction effect. Simultaneously, the device can be integrated into an intelligent control system. Pressure and velocity sensors installed on the airsail body and guide plates monitor airflow parameters in real time. After the processor analyzes the data according to a preset algorithm, it adjusts the guide plate angle or the spacing between fixed plates via electric actuators to adapt to different operating conditions, achieving dynamic optimization of airflow guidance and energy conversion. Furthermore, the polymer waterproof coating on the device surface requires regular maintenance. Special cleaning agents are used to remove surface dirt to ensure the coating's protective performance. In extreme weather conditions, heating elements can be used to prevent surface icing, ensuring stable operation of the device throughout the year. By combining this solution with existing technologies, it not only improves the performance of vertical air sails but also achieves seamless integration with existing engineering systems, forming a complete, efficient, and reliable aerodynamic optimization solution.
[0031] It is important to note that in actual operation, the airflow first enters the airflow channel 3 between the air sail body 1 and the guide plate 2. Because the curvature of the guide plate 2 near the air sail body 1 is smaller, and the air sail body 1 has a guiding arc surface 4 on one side, the airflow is guided and accelerated at the channel inlet and flows close to the arc surface, reducing stripping and eddy current generation, and lowering pressure drag. Subsequently, the airflow enters the trumpet-shaped airflow channel 3, with a streamlined inner wall and an outlet edge inclined outward at 30°. The bottom inner diameter of the outlet is 10cm, and the top outer diameter is 20cm, with an expansion ratio of 1:2. The high-speed airflow smoothly decelerates and diffuses within the channel, converting kinetic energy into static pressure energy, thus improving thrust or lift efficiency. Throughout the process, the teardrop-shaped arc design of the air sail body 1 and the guide plate 2, along with the evenly distributed fixing plates 5 on the outside and the internal support frame, ensure the stability and strength of the structure. The application of sealing gaskets and a high-polymer waterproof coating ensures the device's sealing and weather resistance. This airflow direction and structural design effectively improves the efficiency of wind energy capture or propulsion, and solves the problems of airflow separation, high drag, and low energy capture efficiency that exist in traditional vertical air sails.
[0032] Although the present invention has been disclosed above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art can make various modifications and alterations without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the claims.
Claims
1. An air intake and exhaust channel structure for a vertical air sail, comprising an air sail body (1), characterized in that: A guide plate (2) is provided in front of one side of the air sail body (1), and an airflow channel (3) is formed between the air sail body (1) and the guide plate (2); The air sail body (1) and the guide plate (2) are both teardrop-shaped arc plates, and the convex direction of the plates is the same. The wider end of the air sail body (1) and the guide plate (2) is located at the air inlet of the airflow channel (3).
2. The air inlet and outlet channel structure of the vertical air sail according to claim 1, characterized in that: The air sail body (1) and the guide plate (2) are both made of carbon fiber and fiberglass. The air sail body (1) has a guide arc surface (4) on the side near the guide plate (2). The curvature of the side of the guide plate (2) near the air sail body (1) is smaller than the curvature of the air sail body (1).
3. The air inlet and outlet channel structure of the vertical air sail according to claim 1, characterized in that: The air sail body (1) and the guide plate (2) are fitted with several evenly distributed fixing plates (5), and the air sail body (1) and the guide plate (2) are both provided with a support frame inside.
4. The air inlet and outlet channel structure of the vertical air sail according to claim 1, characterized in that: The inner wall of the airflow channel (3) is streamlined, and the overall space is funnel-shaped. Its outlet edge is inclined outward at an angle of 30°. The bottom inner diameter of the air outlet is 10cm, the top outer diameter is 20cm, and the expansion ratio is 1:
2.
5. The air inlet and outlet channel structure of the vertical air sail according to claim 3, characterized in that: The air sail body (1) and the guide plate (2) are provided with sealing gaskets at the joints with the fixing plate (5). The thickness of the sealing gaskets is 1cm. The outer surfaces of the air sail body (1) and the guide plate (2) are coated with a polymer waterproof coating with a thickness of 0.2mm.