A device for adjusting the oscillation of the leaves of an air sail

Abstract

This application provides a blade oscillation adjustment device for an airsail, including a mast connected to the sail, with an adjustment structure movably connected to the mast via a bearing structure. An integral blade is connected above the adjustment structure, and a circular adjustment component connected to the bearing is included, with vent holes on the blade and corresponding air holes below the blade. The blade is fin-shaped, with a weight block and bolt structure embedded at its lower end. The adjustment component consists of a connecting ring and a rotating component with protrusions. This device reduces turbulence through the vent holes, which create a low-pressure adsorption effect, optimizing airflow adhesion. The rotating component allows for longitudinal adjustment of the angle of attack, while the bearing structure enables lateral rotation, providing adaptive windward movement across the entire range. The weight block lowers the center of gravity, enhancing stability. Overall, it improves airflow utilization efficiency and adjustment performance, maximizes energy conversion, enhances ship propulsion performance, and reduces energy consumption, making it suitable for ship wind energy utilization.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model provides an adjustment device, belonging to the field of air sail technology, and particularly relates to an air sail (vertical) blade swing adjustment device. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of marine propulsion, airsail systems, as a type of system that utilizes wind energy to assist ship navigation, primarily function by capturing airflow energy to provide additional propulsion, thereby achieving energy conservation and emission reduction. Traditional airsail systems typically consist of a fixed mast, sail structure, and a simple steering mechanism, relying mainly on the windward area of ​​the sail to obtain aerodynamic force. However, with the continuous improvement of energy efficiency requirements in the shipbuilding industry, traditional airsail systems have gradually revealed many problems in terms of airflow utilization efficiency, adjustment flexibility, and stability, making it difficult to meet the needs of modern ships for efficient wind energy utilization.

[0003] Existing airsail devices have a relatively simple basic structure, generally including a mast connecting the sail, the sail surface, and a simple mechanical structure for adjusting the sail angle. While some devices possess a certain degree of rotational function, the adjustment methods are limited, typically only allowing for limited pitch or yaw adjustments. This basic structure has several shortcomings in practical applications. On the one hand, traditional devices lack effective airflow guidance and optimization structures, leading to turbulence and separation of airflow as it passes over the sail surface, resulting in significant energy loss, poor airflow adhesion, and insufficient lift. On the other hand, limited adjustment capabilities make it difficult to dynamically and precisely adjust according to complex wind conditions, failing to achieve optimal aerodynamic attitude under varying wind directions and speeds, resulting in low wind energy capture efficiency. Furthermore, existing sail designs exhibit poor stability in strong winds or when the ship is swaying, easily becoming shaky, which not only reduces adjustment accuracy but also increases energy loss, affecting the device's durability. These problems severely restrict the performance improvement of traditional airsail devices, hindering their ability to play a greater role in modern ship propulsion systems, and necessitate improvements through innovative design. Utility Model Content

[0004] In order to solve the above problems, this application provides a blade swing adjustment device for an air sail (vertical), which solves the problems of low airflow utilization efficiency, poor adjustment capability and insufficient stability of existing air sails.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, this utility model provides the following technical solution: an air sail blade swing adjustment device, including a mast connected to the sail, an adjustment structure being movably connected to the top of the mast via a bearing structure; and a blade plate being integrally connected to one side of the upper part of the adjustment structure.

[0006] The adjustment structure includes a circular adjustment component fixedly connected to the bearing structure. The adjustment component has ventilation holes located on both sides of the fender and penetrating through itself. An air hole is located directly below the ventilation holes on the bottom of the fender.

[0007] Preferably, the blade is a fin-shaped plate with several evenly distributed load-bearing blocks embedded in its lower end, and the load-bearing blocks are provided with bolt structures that penetrate themselves and the blade.

[0008] Preferably, the adjusting component includes a connecting ring that is connected to the bearing structure, and a rotating component is movably connected inside the connecting ring.

[0009] Preferably, the outer ring of the rotating component is integrally connected with a protrusion embedded inside the non-connecting ring.

[0010] Preferably, the air holes are a plurality of evenly distributed array of through holes, the rotating component drives the blade to rotate in the longitudinal direction, and the bearing structure drives the adjustment structure to rotate laterally as a whole.

[0011] One or more technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application have at least the following technical effects or advantages:

[0012] This invention utilizes symmetrical airflow channels formed by ventilation holes on both sides of the blades, combined with an array of air holes below, to effectively reduce turbulence and enhance airflow adhesion, thereby improving airflow streamline and reducing drag while increasing lift. Secondly, the introduction of a longitudinally rotating angle-of-attack adjustment mechanism allows the blades to dynamically adjust their angle according to real-time wind conditions, ensuring optimal aerodynamic posture at different wind speeds and maximizing energy conversion efficiency. Thirdly, the laterally rotating all-area windward adaptive function enables the device to quickly respond to changes in wind direction, ensuring the mainsail always faces the oncoming wind direction and eliminating efficiency losses caused by crosswinds. Finally, the low-center-of-gravity weight block design enhances the stability of the adjustment process and suppresses ineffective vibrations in strong winds or swaying environments, improving adjustment accuracy and system durability.

[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 schematic diagram of the installation of a blade swing adjustment device for an air sail (vertical) according to the present invention;

[0015] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the blade plate of an air sail (vertical) blade swing adjustment device according to the present invention;

[0016] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the blade plate portion of an air sail (vertical) blade swing adjustment device according to the present invention.

[0017] As shown in the figure:

[0018] 1. Mast; 2. Bearing structure; 3. Adjustment structure; 4. Blade; 5. Adjusting component; 6. Air vent; 7. Weight block; 8. Bolt structure; 9. Connecting ring; 10. Rotating component; 11. Protrusion;

[0019] 51. Vent hole. Detailed Implementation

[0020] 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.

[0021] 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.

[0022] 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.

[0023] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 The patent description of a blade oscillation adjustment device for a vertical airsail illustrates that its core lies in achieving precise adjustment of the blade oscillation through a specific structural design. The key component of the device is the mast connecting to the sail, with an adjustment structure connected to it via a bearing structure. The blade is integrally connected to the adjustment structure, which includes a circular adjustment component connected to the bearing, featuring ventilation holes. Corresponding air holes are located below the blade. Furthermore, the blade is fin-shaped, with a load-bearing block and bolt structure at its lower end. The adjustment component consists of a connecting ring and a rotating component. The rotating component has protrusions on its outer ring, and the air holes are arranged in an array. The rotating component can drive the blade to rotate longitudinally, while the bearing structure can drive the entire adjustment structure to rotate laterally. The overall design aims to optimize the performance of the airsail, allowing the blade to flexibly adjust its oscillation state according to needs, thereby improving the airsail's usability.

[0024] In this embodiment, the connection and positional relationship of each component are as follows: The mast 1 serves as the base of the device, and the adjusting structure 3 is movably connected to it via a bearing structure 2, allowing the adjusting structure to rotate laterally. The adjusting structure 3 is integrally connected to the blade 4, and includes a circular adjusting component 5 connected to the bearing. This adjusting component has ventilation holes 51 located on both sides of the blade, and corresponding ventilation holes 6 located directly below the blade. The blade 4 is fin-shaped, with several evenly distributed load-bearing blocks 7 embedded inside its lower end, and bolt structures 8 passing through the load-bearing blocks. The adjusting component 5 consists of a connecting ring 9 and a rotating component 10, with a protrusion 11 integrally connected to the outer ring of the rotating component, embedded inside the connecting ring.

[0025] From the perspectives of implementation key points and innovation, the combination of these components produces significant beneficial effects. First, the placement of vents 51 and vents 6 effectively optimizes airflow. The vents form symmetrical guiding channels, reducing the turbulence zone on the leeward side of the blades and avoiding energy loss caused by airflow separation; the vent array allows airflow from below to replenish upwards, creating a low-pressure adsorption effect, enhancing airflow adhesion, thereby reducing drag and increasing effective lift. Second, the longitudinal rotation function of the blades 4, driven by the rotating component 10, can dynamically adjust the angle of attack according to real-time wind speed and direction. In weak winds, the angle of attack is increased to capture more energy, while in strong winds, the angle of attack is decreased to prevent stall or overload, maximizing energy conversion efficiency and maintaining stability. Third, the overall lateral rotation function of the adjustment structure 3, achieved through the bearing structure 2, enables the device to quickly respond to changes in wind direction, driving the entire blades to turn, ensuring that the mainsail always receives positive wind pressure and eliminating efficiency loss caused by crosswinds. Finally, the low center of gravity design of the load block 7 enhances the inertial stability during longitudinal rotation, suppresses the random shaking of the blades in strong winds or when the ship is rocking, ensures that it maintains the set aerodynamic angle, reduces energy loss caused by ineffective oscillation, and improves adjustment accuracy and durability.

[0026] In summary, the roles and benefits of each structure in solving existing technical problems are mainly reflected in the following aspects: First, by optimizing airflow through dual channels (vents + air holes), airflow adhesion and streamlined shape are improved, reducing energy loss; second, longitudinal rotation enables dynamic angle of attack adjustment of the blades to adapt to different wind speeds; third, lateral rotation enables all-area windward adaptive design, ensuring the mainsail receives positive wind pressure; and fourth, a low center of gravity self-stabilizing design improves adjustment accuracy and stability. These innovative designs, combined together, significantly optimize the performance of the airsail, enabling it to flexibly adjust its swing state according to needs, improving wind energy capture efficiency and ship propulsion performance, and overcoming the shortcomings of traditional airsails in terms of airflow utilization efficiency, adjustment capability, and stability.

[0027] like Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the blade oscillation adjustment device of this vertical airsail uses the mast as a base point and is connected to the adjustment structure via a bearing structure, thereby driving the blades to oscillate. The circular adjustment component in the adjustment structure is fixed to the bearing, and its vent holes match the vent holes below the blades. The blades are fin-shaped and have weight blocks and bolt structures to enhance stability. An internal connecting ring of the adjustment component is movably connected to a rotating component, and protrusions on the rotating component are embedded in the connecting ring. The array distribution of the vent holes and the linkage between the rotating component and the bearing structure enable multi-directional flexible rotation of the blades in both the longitudinal and transverse directions, providing precise adjustment capabilities and ensuring efficient operation of the airsail in various environments.

[0028] In this implementation plan, the device, in practical applications, also needs to work in conjunction with existing technologies such as hull structures, wind direction and speed sensors, control systems, and power transmission mechanisms to achieve its optimal performance. The hull structure must have appropriate installation interfaces and sufficient support strength to bear the device and ensure its stability during navigation. It is typically constructed from high-strength steel or aluminum alloys, which possess excellent mechanical properties and corrosion resistance, enabling them to adapt to complex marine environments. Wind direction and speed sensors monitor environmental wind conditions in real time, providing data support for the device's adjustments. These sensors are generally installed at the top of the mast or at a suitable location on the hull, connected to the control system wirelessly or via wired means. Common sensors utilize composite materials such as carbon fiber, offering advantages such as lightweight, high strength, and good weather resistance, and can accurately detect changes in wind direction and speed. After processing and analyzing the sensor data, the control system issues commands to regulate the rotating components and bearing structure within the device, achieving precise oscillation adjustment of the blades. The control system primarily uses industrial-grade chips and electronic components, integrated into a waterproof and dustproof control box to ensure stable operation in harsh environments. The power transmission mechanism translates the control system's commands into mechanical motion. It can employ mature technologies such as hydraulics and electric motors. For example, hydraulic systems use components like cylinders and pumps, while electric motor systems use components like reducers and couplings. These components are made of appropriate materials based on specific design requirements. For instance, high-strength components may use alloy steel, while weight-reducing parts may use aluminum alloys or engineering plastics. This ensures efficient and reliable power transmission, thereby driving the adjustment structure in the device to rotate laterally and longitudinally. This collaboratively completes the precise adjustment of the blade oscillation, enabling the entire airsail system to efficiently utilize wind energy during ship navigation, optimize propulsion performance, and achieve energy conservation and emission reduction.

[0029] Specifically, in one or more feasible embodiments, the blade swing adjustment device of this air sail (vertical) needs to be fixedly installed in conjunction with the existing mast installation interface of the ship in practical applications. The mast 1 is tightly connected to the embedded parts on the hull deck by high-strength bolts to ensure the stability of the entire device. During installation, professional measuring tools and positioning equipment are required to accurately adjust the verticality of the mast, with the error controlled within a very small range to ensure the normal operation of the subsequent adjustment structure. The bearing structure 2 in this device uses high-precision ball bearings, whose inner and outer rings are connected to the mast and adjustment structure 3 respectively through transition fit, and a sealing ring is used to prevent seawater and impurities from entering, ensuring smooth rotation and durability. The circular adjusting part 5 and the connecting ring 9 in the adjustment structure 3 can be made of corrosion-resistant stainless steel to adapt to the harsh conditions of the marine environment, while the rotating part 10 and its protrusion 11 are made of high-strength aluminum alloy, which ensures structural strength while reducing the overall weight.

[0030] During operation, it must be used in conjunction with an existing ship automatic control system, which integrates wind direction and speed sensors, an electronic compass, and a ship's heading instrument. The wind direction and speed sensors monitor environmental wind conditions in real time. After the data is transmitted to the control system, the system calculates the optimal angle of attack and windward direction for the blades 4 based on a preset algorithm. The control system drives the rotating component 10 via a motor to rotate the blades longitudinally to adjust the angle of attack, while simultaneously controlling the bearing structure 2 to achieve the lateral rotation of the entire adjustment structure 3 to align with the wind direction. The motor drive system can utilize a brushless DC motor, which is characterized by high efficiency, smooth operation, and rapid response, enabling precise execution of control commands and ensuring accurate adjustment actions.

[0031] For the material selection of the blade 4, glass fiber reinforced composite material can be used. This material has the advantages of being lightweight, high-strength, corrosion-resistant, and easy to mold, which can effectively reduce the weight of the device while resisting the corrosion of the marine environment. The load-bearing block 7 at its lower end is made of high-density lead alloy material to ensure that the center of gravity is lowered and enhance stability. The load-bearing block and the blade are fixedly connected by bolt structure 8. The bolts are made of stainless steel, which has good rust resistance and ensures the reliability of the connection.

[0032] The design of vents 51 and 6 must consider fluid dynamics principles. The pore size and distribution density are optimized through computer simulation to achieve the best airflow guidance effect. During operation, the vents guide airflow smoothly, reducing energy loss, while the vents utilize the Venturi effect to create low-pressure zones, enhancing airflow adhesion. The entire device can be connected to the ship's electrical system, providing a stable power supply to the control system and motors through voltage regulators and a power management module. A backup battery is also provided to ensure normal operation even in the event of a ship's electrical system failure.

[0033] In terms of maintenance, the bearing structure 2 needs to be lubricated regularly, vulnerable parts such as seals replaced, the tightness of bolt connections checked, and debris in the vent holes and air holes cleaned to ensure long-term stable operation of the device. Through the combination of the above detailed implementation methods and existing technologies, this device can form a complete, efficient, and reliable airsail adjustment system, effectively improving the ship's wind energy utilization efficiency, optimizing navigation performance, and reducing fuel consumption and operating costs.

[0034] 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. A blade swing adjustment device for an air sail, comprising a mast (1) connected to the sail, characterized in that: An adjustment structure (3) is movably connected above the mast (1) via a bearing structure (2); a blade (4) is integrally connected to one side of the upper part of the adjustment structure (3). The adjustment structure (3) includes a circular adjustment component (5) fixedly connected to the bearing structure (2). The adjustment component (5) is provided with ventilation holes (51) located on both sides of the blade (4) and penetrating through itself. The blade (4) is provided with an air hole (6) located below the ventilation hole (51).

2. The blade oscillation adjustment device for an air sail according to claim 1, characterized in that: The blade (4) is a fin-shaped plate with several evenly distributed load-bearing blocks (7) embedded in its lower end. The load-bearing blocks (7) are provided with bolt structures (8) that penetrate themselves and the blade (4).

3. The blade oscillation adjustment device for an air sail according to claim 1, characterized in that: The adjusting component (5) includes a connecting ring (9) that is connected to the bearing structure (2), and a rotating component (10) is movably connected inside the connecting ring (9).

4. The blade oscillation adjustment device for an air sail according to claim 3, characterized in that: The outer ring of the rotating component (10) is integrally connected with a protrusion (11) embedded inside the non-connecting ring (9).

5. The blade oscillation adjustment device for an air sail according to claim 1, characterized in that: The air holes (6) are a number of evenly distributed array through holes. The rotating part (10) drives the blade (4) to rotate in the longitudinal direction, and the bearing structure (2) drives the adjustment structure (3) to rotate laterally as a whole.

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