ARRANGEMENT WITH ONE WING SAIL, ONE MAST AND MULTIPLE CAVITY ADJUSTING DEVICES FOR ONE WING SAIL AND SYSTEM FOR REDUCING THE AREA OF THE WIND-CATCHERING WING

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an assembly comprising a profiled sail; a mast and several cambering devices for a profiled sail, as well as a system for reducing the surface area of ​​the profiled sail in contact with the wind.

[0002] Such a reduction system is advantageously configured to adjust the surface area of ​​the profiled sail in use, in particular when sailing for a sailboat, and in order to adapt the useful surface area of ​​the profiled sail with the force of the wind.

[0003] The present disclosure further relates to a method of reducing the surface area of ​​the profiled sail in contact with the wind. Domaine technique

[0004] The present disclosure relates to the field of rigging, and more particularly to profiled sails, also called "wing sails" or "thick sails", "double-skinned thick sail" or "wing", by those skilled in the art, and more particularly to the mechanisms, internal to the sail, allowing the profile of the sail to be changed. Technique antérieure

[0005] Document WO2021 / 148734A1 of the present inventor discloses an assembly comprising a profiled sail; a mast and several cambering devices for a profiled sail, the cambering devices comprising: a semi-rigid, elastically deformable structure, including: -- two length sections, extending one in front of the other, respectively forming a first length section integral with a first surface of the profiled sail, and a second length section integral with a second surface of the profiled sail, -- a U-shaped connecting section, connecting together by extending them the first length section and the second length section at the leading edge of the profiled sail, the two length sections ending at the trailing edge of the sail by two free ends.

[0006] According to document WO 2021 / 148734, actuating means connect together, on the one hand, the two free ends of the semi-rigid structure, or at least one of the two free ends, and on the other hand, the U-shaped connecting section, configured to arch the first length section and the second length section of the semi-rigid structure by tensioning the two free ends with the U-shaped connecting section of the semi-rigid structure, or at least by tensioning one of the two free ends with the U-shaped connecting section of the semi-rigid structure, and generating an offset between the two free ends. In such an assembly, the mast extends internally to the semi-rigid structure, between the two length sections constituted by the first length section and the second length section of the semi-rigid structure.

[0007] The actuation means are configured to bend the semi-rigid structure selectively: - in a first arched position in which said first length section has a concave profile when said second length section has a convex profile, - in a second arched position in which said second length section has a concave profile when said first length section has a convex profile.

[0008] The cambering devices according to WO 2021 / 148734 are configured to be easily movable along the mast, which allows the profiled sail to be hoisted, or conversely to be lowered to a low position, easily.

[0009] The present disclosure, however, is concerned here with the problem of reducing the useful surface area of ​​the sail by folding it in order to adapt its size in heavy weather. It is thus known to reduce the sail by folding it onto the boom and according to a procedure known to those skilled in the art as "reefing".

[0010] The teaching of WO 2021 / 148734 remains silent on a system for reducing the sail area used in contact with the wind, and configured to adapt the sail area according to the wind force.

[0011] According to the state of the art of rigging, especially for classic (non-profiled) mainsails, triangular sails have a halyard point at the top to which the halyard is attached and a tack point and a clew point at the bottom of the sail. When the sail is hoisted in the high position, the sail is trimmed so that the luff (the leading edge between the halyard point and the tack point) and the leech (the trailing edge between the halyard point and the clew point) are tensioned as desired depending on the wind conditions.

[0012] In order to reduce the useful surface area of ​​the (main) sail in strong winds, the sail canvas is typically equipped with reefs (and in particular a first reef, second reef, third reef) consisting of eyelets located at different heights above the clew and the tack deck.

[0013] After easing the halyard and partially lowering the sail until the reef (first reef, second reef, etc.) is at the height of the boom; the reefing eyes are used to tighten the foot of the sail. For this purpose, a rope called a "reefing line" can be used, particularly present on the leech of a sail. Second ropes typically called "reefing lines", attached to the sail canvas, are then used to furl the excess part of the sail, unused, at its base, after taking in the reef. The lines typically pass through the reefing eye and are of sufficient length to hold the excess sail by keeping it on the boom, by surrounding the boom.

[0014] The state of the art still includes booms with furlers, this furler allowing the automation of reefing, by rolling up the lower portion of the sail to the desired dimension, always in order to reduce the surface area of ​​the sail with the wind.

[0015] According to the inventor's findings, conventional reefing systems, with eyelets according to the state of the art for triangular sails, or with furlers, are unsuitable with a profiled sail of an assembly such as disclosed according to WO2021 / 148734A1.

[0016] In particular, it should be noted that the state of the art with eyelet reefs with lines includes ropes attached directly to the sail canvas, used to furl the excess part of the sail, and which generate local stresses on the sail canvas, local stresses likely to cause tearing in strong winds, with tearing of the sail. Résumé

[0017] This disclosure improves the situation.

[0018] A set is proposed comprising a profiled sail; a mast and several cambering devices for profiled sails, all or part of the cambering devices comprising: - a semi-rigid, elastically deformable structure, including: -- two length sections, extending one in front of the other, respectively forming a first length section integral with a first surface of the profiled sail, and a second length section integral with a second surface of the profiled sail, -- a U-shaped connecting section, connecting together by extending them the first length section and the second length section at the leading edge of the profiled sail, the two length sections terminating at the trailing edge of the sail by two free ends, and wherein the mast extends internal to the semi-rigid structure, between the two length sections and wherein the profiled sail is configured to be: hoisted along the mast, in a high position of the profiled sail, the cambering devices in positions spaced from each other, lowered along the mast in the low position of the profiled sail, the cambering devices in positions close to each other.

[0019] According to the present disclosure, said assembly comprises a system for reducing the surface area of ​​the profiled sail in contact with the wind, configured to reduce the surface area of ​​the profiled sail at an intermediate position along the mast between said high position of the profiled sail and the low position, comprising: - several sections of the profiled sail, distinct and separate, following the direction of the mast, made of flexible canvas, with at least a first profiled sail section and a second profiled sail section, - several of the cambering devices being structural cambering devices, comprising a basic cambering device and at least one intermediate cambering device, said at least one intermediate, structural cambering device ensuring the transmission of forces due to wind pressure on the profiled sail between two successive sections of the profiled sail, separate and distinct, with a lower edge of the first profiled sail section linked to an upper edge of the basic cambering device, and an upper edge of the first profiled sail section linked to a lower edge of a first intermediate cambering device, a lower edge of the second profiled sail section linked to an upper edge of the first intermediate cambering device,so that in the high position of the profiled sail, the then taut canvas of the first section of the profiled sail and the then taut canvas of the second section of profiled sail extend in the direction of the mast, in a discontinuous manner, the semi-rigid structure of said first intermediate cambering device, extending the first section of profiled sail and the second section of profiled sail in the high position of the profiled sail ensuring the transmission of forces between the first section of profiled sail and the second section of profiled sail, - a removable fixing system ensuring the connection between the structural cambering devices, at least between the basic cambering device and said first intermediate cambering device, in order to obtain a first reduction in the surface area of ​​the profiled sail,or even the connection between two successive intermediate cambering devices in order to obtain at least a second (or more) reduction in the surface area of ​​the profiled sail greater than the first reduction in surface area, when the profiled sail is in an intermediate position between said high position of the profiled sail and the low position of the profiled sail, the structural cambering devices in positions close to each other in whole or in part, with at least the base cambering device and the first cambering device close to each other, the canvas of the first accumulated, excess sail section preferably being held by a link of the fixing system joining the semi-rigid structure of the base cambering device to the semi-rigid structure of the first intermediate cambering device.

[0020] The features set out in the following paragraphs may optionally be implemented. They may be implemented independently of each other or in combination with each other.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the fastening system may comprise externally projecting attachment points along the first length section of the second length section of the structural cambering devices, as well as at least one flexible link, configured to hook the attachment points of two successive cambering devices when the profiled sail is in said intermediate position with the two successive cambering devices moving together, while maintaining the accumulated sail section and linked to the two successive cambering devices. The attachment points may be hooks or studs, in particular with widened ends.

[0022] According to one embodiment, said cambering devices comprise, in addition to the structural cambering devices of the system for reducing the surface area of ​​the profiled sail in contact with the wind, secondary cambering devices, cooperating with the different profiled sail sections, each in an intermediate position of the profiled sail section between the upper edge and the lower edge of said profiled sail section.

[0023] The semi-rigid structure of the structural cambering devices of the system for reducing the surface area of ​​the profiled sail in contact with the wind may have a height dimension, depending on the direction of the mast, greater than the height dimension of the secondary cambering devices. The rigidity (depending on the direction of the mast, namely in particular the vertical direction) of the semi-rigid structure of the structural cambering devices is greater than the rigidity of the secondary cambering devices.

[0024] The number of distinct profiled sail sections is equal to the integer N between 2 and 10, such that N equals 5, and the number of structural cambering devices of the system for reducing the surface area of ​​the profiled sail in contact with the wind is equal to the integer N.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the different sections of profiled sail are in canvases having different properties, in particular different materials and / or different weights.

[0026] According to one embodiment, said assembly comprises actuating means connecting together, on the one hand, the two free ends of the semi-rigid structure, or at least one of the two free ends, and on the other hand, the U-shaped connecting section, configured to arch the first length section and the second length section of the semi-rigid structure by tensioning the two free ends with the U-shaped connecting section of the semi-rigid structure, or at least by tensioning one of the two free ends with the U-shaped connecting section of the semi-rigid structure, and generating an offset between the two free ends.

[0027] In particular, the actuating means configured to arch the first length section and the second length section of the semi-rigid structure may comprise at least one actuator, having two longitudinal ends, said actuator, activatable, being retractable when activated with bringing its two longitudinal ends together, said at least one actuator extending along one of the two length sections of the semi-rigid structure, first length section or second length section, said actuator being internal to the semi-rigid structure, contained in a plane of the semi-rigid structure, and in which one of the longitudinal ends of said at least one actuator is connected to one of the two free ends by an internal tendon while the other of the two longitudinal ends of said at least one actuator is connected either to an anchoring point secured to the U-shaped connecting section,either to the other of the two free ends via an angle transmission secured to the U-shaped connecting section by an external tendon, the flexible external tendon passing outside the semi-rigid structure, and the profiled sail between the angle transmission and respectively said other of the two free ends.,

[0028] The actuating means can be configured to bend the semi-rigid structure selectively: - in a first arched position in which said first length section has a concave profile when said second length section has a convex profile, - in a second arched position in which said second length section has a concave profile when said first length section has a convex profile.

[0029] In particular, said at least one actuator of the actuating means may comprise: - a first actuator configured to arch the semi-rigid structure into said first arched position, extending along the first length section, internal to the semi-rigid structure, secured at one of its longitudinal ends to the outer tendon, connected, on the one hand, to the free end of the first length section by said flexible outer tendon, which is external to the semi-rigid structure, via a first angle transmission secured to the U-shaped connecting section, the flexible outer tendon passing outside the semi-rigid structure, and to the profiled sail between the first angle transmission and respectively the free end of the first length section, the flexible outer tendon being internal to the semi-rigid structure between the first angle transmission and said first actuator, the first actuator being secured at the other of its longitudinal ends to the inner tendon,said first actuator connected; on the other hand; to the free end of said second length section by said inner tendon, which runs along the first length section to a guide secured to said first length section before connecting said free end of said second length section, the first actuator being configured, in an active state, to retract and pull on the two free ends connected by the outer tendon and the inner tendon, on the one hand, and on the first angle transmission, on the other hand, until the creation of the offset, the end connected by the inner tendon advancing towards the leading edge relative to the free end connected by the outer tendon, causing the semi-rigid structure to bend, the stressed outer tendon moving away from the first length section which takes a concave profile, the second length section taking a convex profile in said first bended position,- a second actuator configured to arch the semi-rigid structure into said second arched position, extending along the second length section internal to the semi-rigid structure, secured at one of its longitudinal ends to an external tendon, connected, on the one hand, to the free end of the second length section by the flexible external tendon which is external to the semi-rigid structure, via a second angle transmission secured to the U-shaped connecting section, the flexible external tendon passing outside the semi-rigid structure and the profiled sail between the second angle transmission and respectively the free end of the second length section, the flexible external tendon being internal to the semi-rigid structure between the second angle transmission and said second actuator, the second actuator being secured at the other of its longitudinal ends to the internal tendon, said second actuator connected, on the other hand,at the free end of said first length section by said inner tendon which runs along the second length section to a guide secured to said second length section before connecting the free end of said first length section, the second actuator being configured, in an active state, to retract and pull on the two free ends connected by the outer tendon and the inner tendon, on the one hand, and on the second angle transmission, on the other hand, until the creation of the offset, the free end connected by the inner tendon advancing towards the leading edge relative to the free end connected by the outer tendon causing the semi-rigid structure to bend, the stressed outer tendon moving away from the second length section which takes a concave profile, while said first length section takes a convex profile in said second bended position.

[0030] According to one embodiment, all or part of the cambering devices have a securing system, which can be activated / deactivated, configured to ensure the securing of the cambering device to the mast, the securing system comprising: - a first flexible strand connected to the first length section by two longitudinal ends of the first strand, the first strand going around the mast from the first length section, - a second flexible strand connected to the second length section by two longitudinal ends of the second strand, the second strand going around the mast from the second length section, - an actuator system, activatable, internal to the structure configured to pass the first strand and the second strand into a retracted state configured to block (girdle) the cambering device on the mast, clamped between the first strand and the second strand, inside the semi-rigid structure, the mast held at a distance from the two length sections by the first strand and the second strand in tension, and up to a deployed state of the first strand and second strand configured to release the mast; and thus allow the cambering device to move along the mast.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the actuator system of the securing system comprises at least one actuating member having two longitudinal ends, said actuating member, which can be activated, being retractable when activated with its two longitudinal ends brought together.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the cambering devices comprise in whole or in part a spacer system comprising a first spacer, connecting together the first length section and the second length section, as well as a second spacer, connecting together the first length section and the second length section, in a manner parallel to said first spacer on the one hand, and the second length section, on the other hand, and in which the longitudinal ends of the first strand are secured at two attachment points on the first length section respectively at the junction zones between the first and second spacers and the first length section, the longitudinal ends of the second strand being secured at two attachment points on the second length section respectively at the junction zones between the first and second spacers.Thus, the mast extends between the spacers formed by the first spacer and the second spacer, the first strand and the second strand clamped on the mast ensuring that the mast is kept at a distance from the first spacer, on the one hand, and from the mast with the second spacer, on the other hand.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the system for reducing the surface area of ​​the profiled sail in contact with the wind comprises a clamping device, configured to bring two structural cambering devices together, in particular the base cambering device with the intermediate cambering device(s), or else configured to bring two intermediate cambering devices together, the clamping device comprising: - guides such as rollers, integral with the rigid structure of two structural cambering devices to be brought together, the guides arranged on an internal side of the semi-rigid structure, along the first length section and / or along the second length section - at least one tightening link extending within the profiled sail, and which runs along the guides, being guided by the guides, the guides arranged alternately on the two cambering devices following the path of the link, the link fixed at a distal end on the semi-rigid structure of one of the two cambering devices to be brought together and such that the clamping device is configured such that a pull on the clamping link causes the two structural cambering devices to move together.

[0034] The present disclosure also relates to a vehicle, in particular a sailboat comprising an assembly according to the present disclosure.

[0035] According to a second aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method of reducing the surface area of ​​the profiled sail in contact with the wind from an assembly according to the present disclosure or belonging to a sailboat according to the present disclosure from a high position of the profiled sail on the mast, the cambering devices in positions spaced from each other, and in which the surface area of ​​the profiled sail in contact with the wind is reduced by: - partially lowering the profiled sail into an intermediate position between said high position of the profiled sail and the low position, and bringing together at least the basic cambering device, and said first intermediate cambering device, or even at least two successive intermediate cambering devices, the structural cambering devices in positions close to each other in whole or in part, - putting in place the link of the fixing system between at least the basic cambering device and the first intermediate cambering device close to each other, the canvas of the first sail section accumulated and held by at least the link joining the semi-rigid structure of the basic cambering device to the semi-rigid structure of the first intermediate cambering device,or even setting up at least one additional link between the successive intermediate cambering devices, the intermediate link maintaining the sail section accumulated between said intermediate cambering devices. Brève description des dessins

[0036] Other features, details and advantages will become apparent upon reading the detailed description below, and upon analyzing the attached drawings, in which: Fig. 1 [ Fig. 1 ] shows in transparency a schematic view of a rigging comprising a profiled sail, as well as a plurality of cambering devices in their rest position, the cambering devices being configured to camber the profiled sail, selectively in a first direction and a second direction, the profiled sail being carried by a mast, extending internally to the semi-rigid structures of the cambering devices. Fig. 1a [ Fig. 1a ] is a schematic view of the section of the profiled sail, in solid lines, in the rest position of the cambering device, and in dotted lines in two distinct cambered positions, in one direction and the other relative to the rest position. Fig. 2 [ Fig. 2 ] shows an embodiment of the cambering device (flexible tendon and pneumatic muscles of the actuating means not shown) including the semi-rigid structure, in its rest position, formed of a curved rod forming the connecting section, the first length section and the second length section, as well as a first angle transmission and a second angle transmission, both each comprising a pulley, a spacer system including a first spacer and a second spacer, a flexible connection system, including a first flexible link and a second flexible link interlaced with each other, and fixing means for the edge of each profiled sail, at each free end of the semi-rigid structure, as well as two guides secured to the first and second length sections near the free ends, ensuring guidance of the flexible tendons. Fig. 3 [ Fig. 3 ] is a view of the cambering device in a cambered position of the elastic semi-rigid structure under the action of actuating means (not shown). Fig. 4 [ Fig. 4 ] is a view of the cambering device of the figure 3 , the fully illustrated actuating means, including the first actuator in the form of a pneumatic muscle running along the first length section in an extended (unactivated) state, connected to the free end of the first section by an outer tensioner via a first angle gear, and connected to the free end of the second section by an inner tensioner, the actuating means further comprising a second actuator formed by a pneumatic muscle, in a retracted (activated) state connected to the free end of the second length section by an outer tendon via a second angle gear, and connected to the free end of the first length section by an inner tendon, the second actuator deforming the semi-rigid structure into a cambered position by tensioning between the free ends, on the one hand, and the second angle gear integral with the U-shaped connecting section, on the other hand. Fig. 5 [ Fig. 5 ] is a detail view of the bracing system of the semi-rigid structure, including the first brace and the second brace. Fig. 6 [ Fig. 6 ] is an exploded view of the profiled sail and the cambering devices, illustrating on the left different sections of profiled sails, separate and distinct, namely a first section, a second, a third, a fourth and a fifth sections of profiled sail, and on the right, the cambering devices, including, on the one hand, five structural cambering devices forming part of the system for reducing the surface area of ​​the profiled sail in contact with the wind, with from bottom to top, a basic cambering device forming a boom, and first, second, third and fourth intermediate cambering devices, and, on the other hand, secondary cambering devices, of lesser height depending on the height, distributed above the basic cambering device, interposed between the structural cambering devices, or even distributed above the uppermost structural cambering device, namely the fourth intermediate cambering device. Fig. 7 [ Fig. 7 ] illustrates three views of said assembly, with from left to right: - on the left, a high position of the profiled sail along the mast, the surface of the profiled sail fully deployed and in contact with the wind - in the middle, a first intermediate position of the profiled sail ensuring a first reduction of the surface of the profiled sail in contact with the wind (namely a “first reef”) in which the basic cambering device and the first intermediate cambering device are brought closer to each other, the first accumulated section of profiled sail being held by a link of the attachment system connecting the basic cambering device and the first intermediate cambering device, - on the right,a second intermediate position of the profiled sail providing a second reduction in the surface area of ​​the profiled sail in contact with the wind (i.e. "a second reef") in which not only the basic cambering device and the first intermediate cambering device are brought closer to each other, but also the first intermediate cambering device and the second intermediate cambering device are brought closer to each other, the first accumulated profiled sail section being held by a (first) link of the attachment system connecting the basic cambering device and the first intermediate cambering device, the second accumulated profiled sail section being held by an additional link (second link) of the attachment system connecting the first intermediate cambering device and the second intermediate cambering device. Fig. 8 [ Fig. 8 ] is a detail view of the fixing system of the figure 7 in the second intermediate profiled position ensuring a second reduction in the surface area of ​​the profiled sail in contact with the wind, illustrating in particular the links and attachment points on the semi-rigid structures of the structural cambering devices. Fig. 9 [ Fig. 9 ] is a detail view (profiled sail not shown) illustrating the mast, an intermediate structural cambering device, and two secondary cambering devices, on either side of said intermediate cambering device, the semi-rigid structure of which has a height dimension less than the height dimension of the intermediate cambering device, the cambering devices comprising a securing system, which can be activated / deactivated, configured to ensure the securing of the cambering device to the mast, with a first strand and a second strand respectively formed by artificial muscles configured to encircle the mast when retracted in length. Fig. 10 [ Fig. 10 ] is a view of the assembly comprising the profiled sail hoisted in a high position along the mast and the cambering devices in positions spaced apart from each other, notably illustrating flexible elastic hoses for supplying pressurized fluid to the artificial muscles of the cambering devices and / or artificial muscles for girdling the mast, the elastic hoses shaped into a serpentine, the hoses deployed with the coils of the serpentine separated. Fig. 11 [ Fig. 11 ] is a view of the whole figure 10 , once the profiled sail is lowered into the low position on the mast, the cambering devices in close positions compared to the view of the figure 10 , the pipes retracted with the coil turns coming together under the elasticity of the coil. Fig. 12 [ Fig. 12 ] is a schematic view of an artificial muscle in its unactivated position, namely the muscle unloaded from pressurized fluid. FIG. 13 [ Fig. 13 ] is a schematic view of the artificial muscle of the figure 12 in its activated position, namely the muscle supplied with pressurized fluid, which causes an increase in its section and the retraction in length of the actuator with the bringing together of its longitudinal ends. FIG. 14 [ Fig. 14 ] is a sectional view of the figure 13 illustrating in section the envelope in the form of a braid, and the (watertight) balloon received inside the envelope supplied with pressurized fluid. FIG. 15 [ Fig. 15 ] is a view of an assembly according to the present disclosure in accordance with a second embodiment which notably comprises a clamping device comprising one or more clamping links guided by guides, internal within the semi-rigid structures of the base cambering devices and the intermediate cambering devices. FIG. 16 [ Fig. 16 ] is a detail view of the positioning of the guides along a length section of the semi-rigid structure inside the profiled sail. FIG. 17 [ Fig. 17 ] is a detailed view of the positioning of the guides along a length section of the semi-rigid structure inside the profiled sail. FIG. 18 [ Fig. 18 ] is a detailed view of the positions of the guides positioned, alternately, on the rigid structures of two consecutive intermediate cambering devices, the guides crossed by the same tightening link, a traction on the tightening link ensuring the rapprochement of the two intermediate cambering devices. Description des modes de réalisation

[0037] The drawings and description below contain, for the most part, elements of a certain character. They may therefore not only serve to better understand this disclosure, but also contribute to its definition, if necessary.

[0038] Also, the present disclosure relates to an assembly comprising a profiled sail, a mast and several cambering devices for profiled sail.

[0039] All or part of the cambering devices include (for each cambering device): - a semi-rigid, elastically deformable structure, including: -- two length sections, extending one in front of the other, respectively forming a first length section secured to a first surface of the profiled sail, and a second length section secured to a second surface of the profiled sail, -- a U-shaped connecting section, connecting together by extending them the first length section and the second length section at the leading edge of the profiled sail, the two length sections ending at the trailing edge BF of the sail by two free ends, - optionally, a spacer system, comprising at least one spacer connecting together the first length section and the second length section, configured to work in compression and in tension, to maintain a gap between the two length sections.

[0040] The cambering device 1 can also comprise, according to a first possibility (illustrated in particular in the figure 4 ) actuating means 4 connecting together, on the one hand, the two free ends 23, 24 of the semi-rigid structure, and on the other hand, the U-shaped connecting section 22, configured to arch the first length section and the second length section of the semi-rigid structure by tensioning the two free ends 23, 24 with the U-shaped connecting section 22 of the semi-rigid structure 2, and generating an offset between the two free ends 23, 24.

[0041] According to a second possibility (not illustrated in the present application, but illustrated in particular in figure 11 Or 12of document WO2021 / 148734A1) the cambering device 1 comprises actuating means 4 connecting together, on the one hand, at least one of the two free ends 23, 24, and on the other hand, the U-shaped connecting section 22, configured to camber the first length section and the second length section of the semi-rigid structure by tensioning one of the two free ends 23, 24 with the U-shaped connecting section 22 of the semi-rigid structure 2 and generating an offset d between the two free ends 23, 24.

[0042] As illustrated for information purposes in the figure 1 , a profiled sail can be provided with several cambering devices, over the height of the profiled sail. The cambering devices are distributed over the height of the profiled sail. The semi-rigid structure 2 of each cambering device 1, comprises the first length section 20 secured to a first surface S1 of the profiled sail V, and the second length section 21 secured to a second surface S2 of the profiled sail V, as well as the U-shaped connecting section 22, connecting together by extending them the first length section 20 and the second length section 21 at the leading edge BA of the profiled sail, the two length sections ending at the trailing edge BF of the sail by two free ends 23, 24.

[0043] The flexible profiled sail extends from one of the free ends 23, 24 to the other, passing in front of the connecting section 22; a U forming the leading edge BA. The profiled sail can be fixed by two sail edges to the free ends 23, 24 via fixing means 6, in particular by pinching the sail edges.

[0044] Control means are configured to jointly control in the same direction the different actuating means 4 of the cambering devices to camber the first surface S1 of the profiled sail and the second surface S2 of the profiled sail. For example, the cambering devices can take a (in particular first) cambered position for which the first length section 20 takes a concave profile when the second length section takes a convex profile and / or a (in particular second) cambered position in which said second length section 21 has a concave profile when said first length section 20 has a convex profile.

[0045] It will also be noted that an assembly, in particular a rigging according to the present disclosure, advantageously makes it possible to lower the profiled sail V, along the mast M, the cambering devices (with the possible exception of that forming the boom); integral with the profiled sail, descending with the profiled sail along the mast, in particular when the halyard is released, namely in the opposite direction to that of the hoisting of the profiled sail.

[0046] Also, the mast extends internal to the semi-rigid structure, between the two length sections and in which the profiled sail is configured to be: - hoisted along the mast M, in a high position of the profiled sail, the cambering devices 1 in positions spaced apart from each other, - lowered along the mast M in the low position of the profiled sail, the cambering devices 1 in positions close to each other.

[0047] The present disclosure also relates to a vehicle comprising such rigging, and in particular a ship or sailing boat, or even a land yacht.

[0048] The camber position can be adjusted during maneuvers, for example by switching from the first camber position Pc1 to the second camber position Pc2 of the camber devices (of reverse concavity) during tack change maneuvers, whether tacking maneuvers or gybing maneuvers.

[0049] The actuators used for the actuator means can be progressive (and not all or nothing) and take several positions allowing the first and second sail surfaces to be cambered more or less strongly, in one direction or the other. It is possible to adjust the concavity of the sail surface in contact with the wind in order to maximize the effort required to move the vehicle forward depending on the wind conditions.

[0050] The lower cambering device can simultaneously constitute a boom, in particular articulated to the mast, allowing the profiled sail to be oriented. The boom is oriented according to wind conditions and the direction of travel of the ship.

[0051] The semi-rigid structure 2 comprising the connecting section 22 and the two length sections 20, 21, may be constituted by a single-piece semi-rigid element, kept curved by the spacer system 3; and where appropriate a flexible connecting system 5, which is described below.

[0052] For example, said single-piece element is a rod, in particular rectilinear at rest and curved to form the semi-rigid structure 2, or a blade in particular flat at rest and curved to form the semi-rigid structure. The rod or the blade is curved to form the first section of length 20, the second section of length 21 and the U-shaped connecting section 22. For example, the semi-rigid structure may consist of a curved blade for the boom of the rigging and curved rods for the semi-rigid structures of the other cambering devices (located above the boom).

[0053] Alternatively, the different sections of the semi-rigid structure 2, including the first length section 20 and the second length section 21 and the connecting section 22, can be constituted by several structural elements assembled to each other.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the cambering devices comprise in whole or in part the spacer system 3 which may comprise a first spacer 30, connecting together the first section of length 20 and the second section of length 2, as well as a second spacer 31, connecting together the first section of length 20 and the second section of length 21, in a manner parallel to said first spacer 30. The spacers are of fixed or possibly telescopic lengths, as described in WO2021 / 148734A1 of the present inventor. It is noted that the mast extends between the spacers constituted by the first spacer and the second spacer. The spacers (first and second) are configured to work in tension and compression.

[0055] The features previously described in the detailed description are known per se from document WO2021 / 148734A1. The present disclosure, however, focuses here on the problem of reducing the useful surface area of ​​the sail by folding it in order to adapt its size in heavy weather. In the field of sailing; it is known to reduce the sail by folding it onto the boom and according to a procedure known to those skilled in the art as “reefing”.

[0056] According to the state of the art of mainsails, triangular sails (not profiled) comprise at the top a halyard point to which the halyard is attached and a tack point and a clew point at the bottom of the sail. When the sail is hoisted in the high position, the sail is adjusted so that the luff (the front edge between the halyard point and the tack point) and the leech (the rear edge between the halyard point and the clew point) are correctly tensioned to the desired tension.

[0057] In order to reduce the useful surface area of ​​the mainsail in strong winds, the sail canvas typically includes reefs (first reef, second reef, third reef, or even more) made up of eyelets, located at different heights above the clew and the tack deck.

[0058] After easing the halyard and partially lowering the sail until the reef (first reef / second reef) is level with the boom; the reefing eyes are used to tighten the foot of the sail. For this purpose, a reefing line present on the leech of a sail can be used. Second lines typically called reefing lines are then used to furl the excess and unused part at the base of the sail after reefing. The lines typically pass through the reefing eye and are of sufficient length to hold the excess sail by wrapping it around the boom.

[0059] Booms with furlers are also known, which allow reefing to be automated. According to the inventors' findings, conventional reefing systems, with eyelets according to the state of the art for triangular sails, or with furlers, are unsuitable with a profiled sail of an assembly according to the present disclosure and in particular disclosed according to WO2021 / 148734A1.

[0060] The state of the art with eyelet reefs with lines includes ropes attached directly to the sail canvas, used to furl the excess part of the sail, and which generate local stresses on the sail canvas likely to cause tearing in strong winds, with tears in the sail.

[0061] This disclosure remedies this situation.

[0062] For this purpose, said assembly according to the present disclosure advantageously comprises a system for reducing the surface area of ​​the profiled sail in contact with the wind, configured to reduce the surface area of ​​the profiled sail in an intermediate position along the mast between said high position of the profiled sail and the low position.

[0063] Such a system for reducing the surface area of ​​the profiled sail in contact with the wind notably comprises several profiled sail sections SV1, SV2, SV3, SV4, SV5, distinct and separate, following the direction of the mast, made of flexible canvas, with at least a first profiled sail section SV1 and a second profiled sail section SV2.

[0064] By convention, the first profiled sail section SV1, the second profiled sail section, and more generally the kth profiled sail section Svk are arranged, depending on the height of the mast, one after the other, from the base towards the head of the mast M.

[0065] Generally speaking, the number of distinct profiled sail sections SV1 to SV5 is equal to the integer N which can classically be between 2 and 10, such that N equals 5.

[0066] The different sections of profiled sail SV1 to SV5 can be made of the same material, in particular the same canvas, or even advantageously of canvases having different properties, in particular different materials and / or different weights.

[0067] For example, the weight of the canvas used can be variable, for example increasing according to the mast height (from the base of the masthead), in order to take into account the wind speed gradient, generally increasing according to the height of the mast.

[0068] Generally, each profiled sail section SV1 to SV5 forms a portion of the first surface S1 and a portion of the second surface S2 of the profiled sail V and in such a way as to be able to cooperate respectively with the first length section 20 and the second length section 21 of one or more of the cambering devices 1, the sail section bypassing the U-shaped section 22.

[0069] The system for reducing the surface area of ​​the V-shaped sail in contact with the wind also comprises several of said cambering devices 1 which are structural cambering devices.

[0070] The structural cambering devices comprise a base cambering device 10, typically forming a boom, and at least one intermediate cambering device 11, 12, 13, 14, said at least one intermediate cambering device 11, 12, 13, 14, ensuring the transmission of forces due to wind pressure on the profiled sail between two successive separate and distinct profiled sail sections.

[0071] The number of structural cambering devices 10 to 14 of the system for reducing the surface area of ​​the profiled sail in contact with the wind is equal to the whole number N of profiled sail sections. Thus, and at the figure 6 , the system for reducing the useful surface area in contact with the wind is an example when the integer N is equal to 5, namely that it comprises the five profiled sail sections SV1 to SV5 depending on the height of the mast, as well as five of the cambering devices, which are structural cambering devices, including a basic cambering device 4, and four intermediate cambering devices 11 to 14, including: - a basic cambering device 10, typically forming the boom, linked to a lower edge of the first section of the profiled sail SV1, - a first intermediate cambering device 11 interposed and linked, respectively, to the first and second profiled sail sections SV1, SV2, - a second intermediate cambering device 12, interposed and linked respectively to the second and third profiled sail sections SV2, SV3, - a third intermediate cambering device 13, interposed and linked respectively to the third and fourth profiled sail sections SV3, SV4, - a fourth intermediate cambering device 14, interposed and linked respectively to the fourth and fifth profiled sail sections SV4, SV5.

[0072] The cambering devices may comprise, in addition to the structural cambering devices of the system for reducing the useful surface area of ​​the profiled sail, secondary cambering devices 100, typically of lower height depending on the height, distributed above the base cambering device 10, interposed between the intermediate cambering devices 11, 12, 13, 14, or even distributed above the uppermost intermediate cambering device 14, namely the fourth intermediate cambering device 14.

[0073] The secondary cambering devices 100 cooperate with the different profiled sail sections SV1 to SV5, each in an intermediate position of the profiled sail section between the upper edge and the lower edge of said profiled sail section.

[0074] In general, and as visible in the figure 9 , the semi-rigid structure of the structural cambering devices 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 of the system for reducing the surface area of ​​the profiled sail in contact with the wind has a height dimension Lh, along the direction of the mast, which may typically be greater than the height dimension Ih of the secondary cambering devices 100. The structural cambering devices 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 of the system for reducing the profiled sail thus have a rigidity (along the direction of the mast) greater than the rigidity of the secondary cambering devices 100.

[0075] Generally, a lower edge of the first profiled sail section SV1 is connected to an upper edge of the base cambering device 10, and an upper edge connected to a lower edge of a first intermediate cambering device 11, a lower edge of the second profiled sail section SV2 connected to an upper edge of the first intermediate cambering device 11, so that in the hoisted position of the profiled sail, the taut canvas of the first profiled sail section SV1 and the taut canvas of the second profiled sail section SV2 extend in the direction of the mast, in a discontinuous manner.

[0076] The semi-rigid structure of said first intermediate cambering device 11 extends the first profiled sail section SV1 and the second profiled sail section SV2 in the high position of the profiled sail, ensuring the transmission of forces due to wind pressure on the profiled sail between the first profiled sail section SV1 and the second profiled sail section SV2.

[0077] When the system for reducing the useful surface area of ​​the profiled sail comprises a second intermediate cambering device 12, the latter is linked to an upper edge of the second profiled sail section SV2 and to a lower edge of the third profiled sail section SV3.

[0078] Generally speaking, and when the useful surface reduction system includes a kth< intermediate cambering device, the latter is linked to an upper edge of the kth< profiled sail section SVk and to a lower edge of the kth+1< profiled sail section SVk+1.

[0079] The system for reducing the useful surface area of ​​the profiled sail also notably comprises a removable fixing system ensuring the connection between the structural cambering devices, at least between the base cambering device 10, and said first intermediate cambering device 11, or even the connection between two successive intermediate cambering devices 11, 12, 13, 14, when the profiled sail is in an intermediate position between said high position of the profiled sail and the low position of the profiled sail, the structural cambering devices 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 then in positions close to each other in whole or in part, with at least the base cambering device 10 and the first intermediate cambering device 11 close to each other.

[0080] The excess canvas of the first accumulated sail section SV1 is then preferably held by a link L1 of the fixing system joining the semi-rigid structure of the base cambering device 10 to the semi-rigid structure of the first intermediate cambering device 11.

[0081] So and on the left view of the figure 7 the profiled sail V is illustrated in its high position along the mast M, the structural cambering devices 10 to 14 are in positions spaced from each other so as to ensure deployment of the entire useful surface of the profiled sail, resulting from the addition of the different profiled sail sections SV1 to SV5 depending on the height of the mast.

[0082] The view from the middle of the figure 7 illustrates a first reduction in the useful surface area of ​​the profiled sail, or "first reef", substantially reduced by the surface area of ​​the first profiled sail section SV1, obtained by partially lowering the profiled sail from its high position illustrated on the left, namely until the first intermediate cambering device 11 sliding down the mast, is close to the base cambering device 10 (then fixed). The first profiled sail section is then folded, accumulated between the base cambering device 10 and the first intermediate cambering device 11.

[0083] A link of the fixing system is then put in place between at least the base cambering device 10 and the first intermediate cambering device 11 close to each other, the canvas of the first sail section SV1 accumulated and held by at least the link L1 joining the semi-rigid structure of the base cambering device 10 to the semi-rigid structure of the first intermediate cambering device 11.

[0084] There figure 7 , on the right, further illustrates a second reduction in the surface area of ​​the profiled sail, or "second reef", substantially reduced by the addition of the surfaces of the first profiled sail section SV1 and the second profiled sail section SV2, obtained by partially lowering the profiled sail from its high position illustrated on the left, namely until the first intermediate cambering device 11 and the second intermediate cambering device 12 sliding down the mast, are close to the base cambering device 10 (then fixed). The first profiled sail section SV1 and the second profiled sail section SV2 are then folded, accumulated respectively between the base cambering device 10 and the first intermediate cambering device 11, on the one hand, and between the first intermediate cambering device 11 and the second intermediate cambering device 12, on the other hand.

[0085] A link of the fixing system is then put in place between the base cambering device 10 and the first intermediate cambering device 11 close to each other, the canvas of the first sail section SV1 accumulated and held by at least the link L1 joining the semi-rigid structure of the base cambering device 10 to the semi-rigid structure of the first intermediate cambering device 11, as well as at least one additional link L2 joining the first intermediate cambering device 11 and the second intermediate cambering device 12.

[0086] Generally speaking, and as understood from the present description, for a profiled sail having an integer number N of profiled sail sections, a base camber device 10, and N-1 intermediate camber devices, it is possible to carry out N-1 reductions in the surfaces of the profiled sail, by successive reductions of the N-1 profiled sail sections.

[0087] Advantageously, the fixing system typically comprises attachment points PT such as pins or hooks projecting externally along the first section of length 20 and the second section of length 20 of the semi-rigid structures of the structural cambering devices 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, as well as at least one flexible link L1, L2, configured to hook the attachment points PT of two successive cambering devices when the profiled sail is in said intermediate position with the two successive cambering devices moving together, while maintaining the sail section accumulated and linked to the two successive cambering devices.

[0088] The two successive structural cambering devices can be the base cambering device 10 and the first intermediate cambering device 11, linked by the link L1, or two successive intermediate cambering devices 11, 12, 13, 14 linked by an additional link L2.

[0089] According to the present disclosure, the link L1 (or the additional link L2) directly attaches the semi-rigid structures of the structural cambering devices, without creating local tension on the profiled sail sections SV1, SV2, SV3, SV4, SV5 and therefore without creating local constraints on the canvas likely to cause tearing in strong winds.

[0090] The structural cambering devices, namely the base cambering device 10 and the intermediate cambering devices 11, 12, 13, 4 thus advantageously ensure a homogeneous transmission of the force to the different sections of profiled sail, over the entire profile of the sail section SV1 to SV5, seen perpendicular to the mast. The attachment points can be hooks or nipples with widened ends.

[0091] Optionally, all or part of the cambering devices may have a securing system 7, which can be activated / deactivated, configured to ensure the securing of the cambering device 1 to the mast, the securing system 7.

[0092] In its activated state, the securing system 7 is advantageously configured to keep the mast away from the semi-rigid structure of the device while ensuring the return of the lateral support due to the wind pressure on the profiled sail on the mast. The securing system 7 positions the profiled sail while avoiding impacts between the mast M and the damaging semi-rigid parts of the cambering device.

[0093] As visible for information purposes only at the figure 9 , the solidarity system 7 includes: - a first flexible strand 71 linked to the first section of length 21 by two longitudinal ends of the first strand 71, the first strand going around the mast M from the first section of length 20, - a second flexible strand 72 linked to the second section of length 20 by two longitudinal ends of the second strand, the second strand going around the mast M from the second section of length 21.

[0094] The mast thus extends between the first strand 71 and the second strand 72.

[0095] The securing system also comprises an actuator system, activatable, internal to the structure, configured to pass the first strand and the second strand into a retracted state configured to tighten the cambering device on the mast M, sandwiched between the first strand 71 and the second strand 72, inside the semi-rigid structure.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the camber devices comprise in whole or in part the spacer system 3 with a first spacer 30, connecting together the first length section 20 and the second length section 21, as well as a second spacer 31 connecting together the first length section 20 and the second length section 21, in a manner parallel to said first spacer (30).

[0097] The mast thus clamped by the first strand 71 and the second strand 72 is advantageously kept at a distance from the two sections of length 20, 21 by the first strand 71 and the second strand 72 in tension, as well as kept at a distance from the spacers, first spacer 31 and second spacer 32 when present. The wind force on the profiled sail is returned to the mast by the first strand 72 and second strand 72 in tension.

[0098] On the contrary, and when the actuator system is deactivated, the latter is configured to cause a deployed state of the first strand and second strand configured to release the mast; and to authorize the movement of the cambering device along the mast.

[0099] In order to optimize the synergy between the spacers 30, 31 and the strands 71, 72: - the longitudinal ends of the first strand 71 can be secured at two attachment points on the first length section 20 respectively at the junction zones between the first and second spacers 30, 31 on the one hand, and the first length section 20, on the other hand, - the longitudinal ends of the second strand 72 can be secured at two attachment points on the second length section 21 respectively at the junction zones between the first and second spacers 30, 31 on the one hand, and the second length section 21, on the other hand.

[0100] Each spacer constituted by the first spacer and the second spacer 30, 31 of the spacer system 3 can be pivotally articulated at its ends, respectively to the first length section 20 along an axis perpendicular to the plane of the semi-rigid structure and to the second length section 21 along an axis perpendicular to the plane of the semi-rigid structure, the or each spacer 30, 31 being configured to pivot relative to the two length sections, first length section 20 and second length section 21 during the bending and offsetting of the free ends 23, 24; under the effect of the actuating means 4.

[0101] For this purpose, the cambering device may comprise articulated connections 32, comprising a first part 33 secured to the first length section 20 or to the second length section 21, or even a second part 34 receiving one end of the spacer 30; 31, the second part 34 being articulated to the first part 33 along a pivot axis substantially perpendicular to the plane of the semi-rigid structure 2 to pivot relative to the two length sections during the cambering and the offsetting of the free ends 23, 24; under the effect of the actuating means.

[0102] Also, the longitudinal ends of the first strand 71 can advantageously be attached to the first parts 33 of the connectors 32 integral with the first section of length 20 and the longitudinal ends of the second strand 72 are attached to the first parts 32 of the connectors 32 integral with the second section of length 21.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the actuator system of the securing system 7 comprises at least one actuating member on the belt m having two longitudinal ends e1, e2, said actuating member, which can be activated, being retractable when activated with the bringing together of its two longitudinal ends e1, e2.

[0104] Said belt actuating member may be an artificial muscle, in particular a pneumatic muscle. Such an actuator has a casing internally receiving a balloon supplied or discharged with fluid. The flexible casing retracts in length when its section increases under the increase of the supplied balloon or fluid (contraction of the muscle), and deploys in length when its section decreases when the balloon is discharged with fluid (decrease in the fluid pressure). The retraction of the actuator may be progressive by controlling the quantity of fluid supplied into the balloon.

[0105] Such pneumatic actuation systems are commonly called "artificial muscles" consisting of inflatable tubes inserted into protective braids forming an envelope, such that the artificial muscle contracts or expands depending on whether its internal fluid pressure increases or decreases. Such artificial muscles are, for example, described by B. Tondu and P. Lopez in "Compte Rendu de l'Académie des Sciences", t. 320, PP 105-114, 1995.

[0106] Such an artificial muscle is schematically illustrated in its deployed position at figure 12 and in its retracted position at the figure 13 , as well as according to a sectional view at the figure 14 .

[0107] When the balloon B is supplied with pressurized fluid (for example air) the section of the balloon increases which causes an increase in the section of the envelope Ev in the form of a braid at the figure 11 .

[0108] Under the effect of the increase in the section of the envelope, the braiding of the envelope generates a force ensuring the retraction of the artificial muscle, by bringing together the longitudinal ends e1 or e2.

[0109] Such an actuator has the following advantages: - not requiring electrification of the profiled sail, - being a flexible component; unlikely to be aggressive to the surfaces of the profiled sail, avoiding the risk of tearing, or even likely to come into direct contact to grip the mast without risk of altering the surface of the mast M.

[0110] According to a first embodiment illustrated in the figure 9 , the first strand 71 may comprise a first actuating member on the belt m1, in particular a first artificial muscle, and the second strand 72 may comprise a second actuating member on the belt m2, in particular a second artificial muscle.

[0111] All or part of the camber devices 1 may have a flexible connection system 5, joining together the first length section 20 and the second length section 21. This flexible connection system is arranged in an intermediate position of the structure between the two free ends 23, 34 and said spacer system 3, said flexible connection system 5, working in tension to maintain between them a spacing between the two length sections.

[0112] It will also be noted that the spacer system 3 and the flexible connection system 5 both extend internally to the semi-rigid structure 2, in the interspace between the first section of length 20 and the second section of length 21, and preferably entirely in the plane of the semi-rigid structure 2.

[0113] The flexible connection system 5 comprises two flexible links, including a first flexible link 50 secured by its two ends to the first section of length 20, and a second flexible link 51 secured by its two ends to the second section of length 21. The two flexible links, first flexible link 50 and second flexible link 51 are interlaced at a contact zone Zc between the two flexible links 50, 51. The contact zone Zc between the two flexible links is configured to slide along the flexible links 50, 51 during the bending and shifting of the free ends 23, 24 under the effect of the actuating means 4.

[0114] Thus, whether it is the spacer system, when the or each spacer is articulated at its ends to the two length sections (first length section 20 or second length section 21), or the flexible connection system with the possibility of sliding of the contact zone between the two flexible links, these two systems promote the offset between free ends 23 24, when the actuating means 4 are activated.

[0115] The semi-rigid structure 2 may have a profile having a plane of symmetry, in a rest position Pr of the semi-rigid structure 2 in which the first section of length 20 and the second section of length 21 have a convex profile. As seen in the figure 2 , the plane of symmetry AS of the semi-rigid structure 2 in its rest position extends in the direction between the leading edge BA and the trailing edge BF, perpendicular to the plane of the semi-rigid structure 2 containing the first section of length 20, the second section of length 21 and the connecting section 22, in U.

[0116] In the rest position Pr of the semi-rigid structure, it is noted that the first spacer 30 and the second spacer 31 extend respectively substantially perpendicular to the plane of symmetry AS.

[0117] In at least one arched position Pc1 and / or Pc2 of the semi-rigid structure 2 under the action of the actuating means 4, said first length section 20 has a concave profile when said second length section 21 has a convex profile, or said second length section 21 has a concave profile when said first length section 20 has a convex profile.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the actuation means 4 are configured to bend the semi-rigid structure selectively: - in a first arched position Pc1 in which said first section of length 20 has a concave profile when said second section of length 21 has a convex profile, - in a second arched position Pc2 in which said second section of length 21 has a concave profile when said first section of length 20 has a convex profile.

[0119] According to one embodiment (notably illustrated in the figure 4 ) the actuating means 4 may comprise at least one actuator 40, 41, extending along one of the two length sections of the structure, first length section 20 (or second length section 21), connected to the free end 23 or 24 of the length section by an external, flexible tendon 42, external to the semi-rigid structure 2, via at least one angle transmission 43 secured to the U-shaped connecting section, and connected to the free end 24, 23 of the other length section by an internal tendon 44 which runs along the length section to a guide 45, before connecting said free end 24 or 23 of the other length section, second length section 21 or first length section 20.

[0120] Said at least one angle transmission 43 is located on the side of the plane of symmetry (and not on the latter) of the semi-rigid structure 2 whose profile of the length section (first length section or second length section) is to be changed from the convex profile to the concave profile.

[0121] When the actuating means make it possible to obtain the two cambered positions Pc1 and Pc2, two angle transmissions arranged on either side of the plane of symmetry make it possible to camber the semi-rigid structure into these two cambered positions respectively: - a first angle gear 431, integral with the connecting section 22, arranged on the side of the first section of length 20 (relative to the plane of symmetry) is used to allow the profile of the first section of length 20 (and therefore the first surface S1 of the profiled sail) to change from the convex profile in the rest position Pr of the semi-rigid structure 2 to said first cambered position Pc1 where the first section of length 20 takes the concave profile; - a second angle gear 432, integral with the connecting section; arranged on the side of the second section of length 21 (relative to the plane of symmetry), is requested to allow the change of profile of the second section of length 10 (and therefore the second surface S2 of the profiled sail) from the convex profile in the rest position Pr of the semi-rigid structure 2 to said second cambered position Pc2 where the second section of length 21 takes the concave profile.

[0122] Said actuator 40; 41 is configured to retract in an active state and pull on the two free ends 23, 24 connected respectively by the outer tendon 42 and the inner tendon 44, on the one hand, and on the angle transmission 43 of the connecting section 22, on the other hand, until the creation of the offset d, the free end connected by the inner tendon 44 advancing towards the leading edge BA relative to the free end connected by the outer tendon 42 causing the semi-rigid structure to bend, the stressed outer tendon 42 moving away from the length section, first length section (or second length section, immediately adjacent to the outer tendon 42), which then takes a concave profile, and while the other length section, second length section or first length section, takes a convex profile.

[0123] The offset of the free ends 23, 24 makes it possible to initiate the change in profile of the length section - first length section 20 or second length section - from the convex profile in the rest position Pr of the semi-rigid structure 2, and up to the concave profile in said cambered position, in particular first cambered position Pc1 or second cambered position Pc2.

[0124] The change in profile of the first section of length 20, in particular from the convex profile in the rest position Pr to a concave profile in the first cambered position Pc1, is initiated by the offset of the free end 24 of the second connecting section 21 towards the leading edge BA relative to the free end 23 of the first connecting section 20.

[0125] Therefore, the concavity of the first section of length 20 can be accentuated by the actuating means 4, by the traction of the external tendon 42 connecting the first angle transmission 431 and the free end 23 (like the string of a bow).

[0126] The change in profile of the second section of length 21, in particular from the convex profile in the rest position Pr to a concave profile in the first cambered position Pc2, is initiated by the shifting of the free end 23 of the first section of length 20 towards the leading edge BA relative to the free end 24 of the second section of length 21.

[0127] Therefore, the concavity of the second section of length 21 can be accentuated by the actuating means 4, by the traction of the external tendon 42 connecting the second angle transmission 432 and the free end 24 (like the string of a bow).

[0128] External tendon 42 means that the flexible tendon passes outside the semi-rigid structure 2 and the sail between the angle gear 43 - first angle gear 431 or second angle gear 432 - and respectively the free end, respectively the free end of the first section of length 20 and the end 24 of the second section of length 21, and even if the flexible tendon is partially internal to the structure between the angle gear and the actuator (first actuator 40 or second actuator 41).

[0129] According to one embodiment (illustrated in the figure 4 ) the outer tendon 42 between the angle gear (first angle gear 431 or second angle gear 432) and the free end (free end 23 or 24) is still outside the profiled sail, in particular outside the first sail surface S1 between the first angle gear 431 and the free end 23 and outside the second sail surface S2 between the second angle gear 432 and the free end 24. For this purpose, the first sail surface S1 (respectively the second sail surface S2) has a passage opening for the outer tendon 42 at the first angle gear 431 (respectively the second angle gear 432).

[0130] When the first sail surface S1 takes on a concave surface under the action of the first section of length 20, the outer tendon 42 also moves away from this first profiled sail surface S1.

[0131] When the second sail surface S2 takes on a concave surface under the action of the second section of length 21, the outer tendon 42 also moves away from this first profiled sail surface S2.

[0132] According to one embodiment (illustrated in the figure 4 ), the actuating means include: - a first actuator 40 configured to arch the semi-rigid structure into said first arched position Pc1, extending along the first length section 20 connected to the free end 23 of the first length section by a flexible outer tendon 42, to the semi-rigid structure 2, via a first angle transmission 431 secured to the U-shaped connecting section 22, and by an inner tendon 44 which runs along the first length section 20 to a guide 45 of said first length section 20 before connecting the free end 24 of said second length section 21, the first actuator 40 being configured to retract and pull on the two free ends 23, 24 connected by the outer tendon 42 and the inner tendon 44, on the one hand, and on the first angle transmission 431, on the other hand, until the creation of the offset marked d,the connected end 24 by the inner tendon 44 advancing towards the leading edge BA relative to the free end 23 connected by the outer tendon 42 causing the semi-rigid structure to bend, the stressed outer tendon 42 moving away from the first length section 20 which takes a concave profile, the second length section 21 taking a convex profile in said first bended position Pc1, - a second actuator 41 configured to bend the semi-rigid structure in said second bended position Pc2, extending along the second length section 21 connected to the free end 24 of the second length section by a tendon 42, external, flexible to the semi-rigid structure 2, via a second angle transmission 432 secured to the U-shaped connecting section 22,and by an inner tendon 44 which runs along the second section of length 21 to a guide 45 of said second section of length 21 before connecting the free end 23 of said first section of length 20, the second actuator 41 being configured to retract and pull on the two free ends 23, 24 connected by the outer tendon 42 and the inner tendon 44, on the one hand, and on the second angle transmission 432, on the other hand, until the creation of the offset marked d, the free end 23 connected by the inner tendon 44 advancing towards the leading edge BA relative to the free end 24 connected by the outer tendon 42 causing the semi-rigid structure 2 to bend, the stressed outer tendon 42 moving away from the second section of length 21 which takes a concave profile, while said first section of length 20 takes a convex profile in said second arched position Pc2. ,

[0133] According to one embodiment, the cambering device comprising a control means configured to selectively: - activate the first actuator 40 while keeping the second actuator 41 non-activated to cause said first cambered position Pc1, - activate the second actuator 41 while keeping the first actuator 40 non-activated to cause said second cambered position Pc2.

[0134] The first actuator 40 and the second actuator 41 are selectively activated, in particular while the first strand 71 and the second strand 72 are in said retracted state configured to clamp the cambering devices on the mast M by actively activating said securing systems 7 when present.

[0135] These control means can be external to the semi-rigid structure of the cambering device.

[0136] The control means can also make it possible to adjust the concavity depth setting when the actuator, first actuator 40 and / or second actuator 41 is a progressive actuator.

[0137] Said at least one actuator, where appropriate first actuator 40 and second actuator 41 may be an actuator which retracts when supplied with fluid such as an artificial muscle, in particular a pneumatic muscle. Such an actuator, illustrated in figures 12 à 14 , has already been described previously, and is not redeveloped. It has an envelope internally receiving a balloon supplied or discharged with fluid. The flexible envelope retracts in length when its section increases under the increase of the supplied balloon or fluid (contraction of the muscle), and deploys in length when its section decreases when the balloon is discharged from the fluid (decrease in the fluid pressure). The retraction of the actuator can be progressive by controlling the quantity of fluid supplied into the balloon.

[0138] According to one embodiment, the artificial muscles of the actuators 40, 41 and / or of the actuator members at the belt m1 and m2 of the plurality of cambering devices 1 are supplied with fluid by one or more flexible elastic pipes AL1, AL2, AL3, shaped in the form of a serpentine, extending in the direction of the height of the mast M. The flexible elastic pipe(s) are configured to deploy by spreading the turns of the serpentine in the high position of the profiled sail, and to retract by bringing the turns of the serpentine closer together under the elasticity of the serpentine, in the low position of the profiled sail.

[0139] Separate elastic hoses are used for the actuators 40, 41 configured for bending and the actuator members m1, m2, at the belting in order to be able to control these different actuators independently.

[0140] The actuators or actuator members on the belt can be supplied with fluid by a reserve of compressed fluid R, in particular compressed air, which can be housed in the hollow of the mast at its base. Application industrielle

[0141] These technical solutions can be applied in particular in the maritime field of sailing boats, as an improved rigging solution.

[0142] Since the cambering devices are made up of a semi-rigid, elastically deformable structure, or even flexible actuator(s) in the form of artificial muscles, they are particularly suitable for a marine environment, where the rigging elements may be subject to shocks, under the action of the wind or unforeseen manoeuvring events.

[0143] The system for reducing the surface area of ​​the profiled sail in contact with the wind advantageously allows the useful surface area of ​​the profiled sail to be reduced, without creating local tension on the canvas of the profiled sail, limiting the risk of tearing in strong winds.

[0144] On the contrary, structural cambering devices, in particular intermediate cambering devices, allow for a homogeneous transmission and distribution of the forces due to wind pressure on the sail between the different, distinct sections of profiled sail.

[0145] In particular, the homogeneous distribution between each profiled sail section and the intermediate structural cambering devices can advantageously be carried out preferably continuously along the first length section, and along the second length section of the rigid structure, as well as along the U-shaped connecting section of the structure 2, and in order to distribute the force along the first sail surface and along the second sail surface of each section, as well as along the sail surface bypassing the U-shaped connecting section.

[0146] During maintenance, particularly in the case of deterioration of the profiled sail canvas, only the profiled sail section showing deterioration can be disassembled from the assembly, advantageously while keeping the other profiled sail sections assembled, unaltered. This simplifies maintenance of the sail.

[0147] The present disclosure also relates to a method for reducing the surface area of ​​the profiled sail in contact with the wind from an assembly according to the present disclosure or belonging to a sailboat according to the present disclosure from a high position of the profiled sail on the mast, the cambering devices 1 in positions spaced from each other.

[0148] According to this process, the surface area of ​​the profiled sail in contact with the wind is reduced by: partially lowering the profiled sail into an intermediate position between said high position of the profiled sail and the low position, and bringing together at least the base cambering device 10 and said first intermediate cambering device 11 or even at least two successive intermediate cambering devices 11 to 14, the structural cambering devices in positions close to each other in whole or in part, putting in place a link of the fixing system between at least the base cambering device 10 and the first intermediate cambering device 11 close to each other, the canvas of the first sail section SV1 accumulated and held by at least the link L1 joining the semi-rigid structure of the base cambering device 10 to the semi-rigid structure of the first intermediate cambering device 11 to obtain a first reduction in the surface area of ​​the profiled sail,or even setting up at least one additional link L2 between the successive intermediate cambering devices 11,12,13,14, the intermediate link maintaining the sail section accumulated between said intermediate cambering devices, to obtain additional reductions in the surface area of ​​the profiled sail.

[0149] According to an embodiment illustrated by way of example in figures 15 to 19, the system for reducing the surface area of ​​the profiled sail in contact with the wind comprises a clamping device, configured to bring two structural cambering devices together, in particular the base cambering device with the intermediate cambering device(s), or else configured to bring two intermediate cambering devices together, the clamping device comprising: - guides 8 such as rollers, integral with the rigid structure 2 of two structural cambering devices to be brought together, the guides arranged on an internal side of the semi-rigid structure 2, along the first section of length 20 and / or along the second section of length 21, - at least one tightening link 9 extending within the profiled sail, and which runs along the guides 8 while being guided by the guides, the guides arranged alternately on the two cambering devices following the path of the link, the link fixed at a distal end 90 on the semi-rigid structure of one of the two cambering devices to be brought together.

[0150] The clamping device is configured so that pulling on the clamping link 9 causes the two structural cambering devices to come together.

[0151] Generally speaking, there may be, in order to bring together two structural cambering devices, and in symmetry with respect to a mean vertical plane of the profiled sail: - a first tightening link extending between the semi-rigid structures 2 in guides 8 fixed alternately to the first sections of length 20 of the two semi-rigid structures, - a second tightening link extending between the semi-rigid structures in guides 8 fixed alternately to the second sections of length 20 of the two semi-rigid structures.

[0152] The two structural cambering devices are brought together by pulling simultaneously on the first and second tightening links.

[0153] There figure 17 illustrates the profiled sail seen from above, the tightening device, in particular these guides 8 and the tightening links 8 being internal to the profiled sail, arranged between the two surfaces S1 and S2 of the sail and internal to the semi-rigid structures of the cambering devices.

[0154] There figure 18 , illustrates an example of the trajectory of the tightening link 9 which extends through the guides 8, distributed alternately on the semi-rigid structures following the path of the link, 9 to a distal end 90 fixed on one of the structures. The proximal end of the tightening link is stretched and can be fixed to the base of the mast.

[0155] Generally speaking, there can be several clamping devices and in particular: - a first clamping device between the base cambering device 10 and the first intermediate cambering device 11 configured to bring the base cambering device and the first intermediate cambering devices 11 closer together, - a second between the first intermediate cambering device 11 and the second intermediate cambering device 12, and so on.

[0156] Such a tightening device can constitute in itself a version of the fixing system, removable, ensuring the connection between the cambering, structural devices. Of course, the rapprochement caused by a traction on the tightening link 9 requires first releasing the halyard.

[0157] Such a tightening device can in particular make it possible to automate the partial lowering maneuver of the sail when the traction on the tightening link is motorized. Liste des signes de référence

[0158] 1 -. Cambering device, 10. Basic cambering device, 11, 12, 13, 14. Intermediate cambering devices 2 Semi-rigid structure 20,21: First length section and second length section, 22. U-shaped connecting section 23,34: Free ends, 3. Spacer system, 30, 31. First spacer and second spacer, 32. Connection, 4 Actuating means, 40,41. Actuators, first and second; 42 Outer tendon(s) 43. Angle gears, in particular first angle gear 431, and second angle gear 432 44. Inner tendon, flexible, 5. Flexible connection system 50. First flexible link, 51. Second flexible link, 6. Fixing means (sail), 7. Securing system (for locking the camber device on the mast),- 71, 72, First strand and second strand, 8. Guides (tightening device) 9. Tightening link AS. Plane of symmetry of the semi-rigid structure ( figure 2) B. Balloon (artificial muscle), Ev Envelope (in particular braid), BA. Leading edge BF Trailing edge V. Profiled sail d: offset between the two free ends ZC. Contact area between the two flexible links, m1, m2 Respectively at least one actuating member, first and second actuating members, and common actuating member, Pr. Rest position, Pc1. First cambering position, Pc2. Second cambering position, L1, L2. Link and additional link, SV1, SV2, SV3, SV4, SV5. Profiled sail sections, Lh, Ih. Height dimension (for the basic cambering device and the intermediate cambering devices)

Claims

1. An assembly comprising a profiled sail; a mast and several cambering devices (1) for a profiled sail (V), the cambering devices comprising: - an elastically deformable semi-rigid structure (2), including: - two length sections, extending in front of one another, respectively forming a first length section (20) integral with a first surface (S1) of the profiled sail (V), and a second length section (21) integral with a second surface (S2) of the profiled sail (V), - a U-shaped connecting section (22), interconnecting the first length section (20) and the second length section (21) by extending them at the leading edge (BA) of the profiled sail, the two length sections terminating at the trailing edge (BF) of the sail in two free ends (23, 24), and wherein the mast extends internally to the semi-rigid structure, between the two length sections and wherein the profiled sail is configured to be: - hoisted along the mast (M), in a top position of the profiled sail, the cambering devices (1) in positions separated from one another, - lowered along the mast (M) into a bottom position of the profiled sail, the cambering devices (1) in positions close to one another, characterised in that said assembly comprises a system for reducing the surface area of the profiled sail exposed to the wind, configured to reduce the surface area of the profiled sail in an intermediate position along the mast between said top position of the profiled sail and the bottom position, comprising: - several distinct and separate sections (SV1, SV2, SV3, SV4, SV5) of the profiled sail along the direction of the mast, made of flexible cloth, with at least a first section (SV1) of the profiled sail and a second section (SV2) of the profiled sail - several ones of the cambering devices (1) consisting of structural cambering devices, comprising a base cambering device (10) and at least one intermediate cambering device (11, 13, 14, 14), said at least one intermediate structural cambering device ensuring transmission of forces due to the pressure of the wind on the profiled sail between two successive separate and distinct sections of the profiled sail, with a lower edge of the first section of the profiled sail connected to an upper edge of the base cambering device (10), and an upper edge connected to a lower edge of the first intermediate cambering device (11), a lower edge of the second section (SV2) of the profiled sail connected to the upper edge of the first intermediate cambering device (11), so that in the hoisted position of the profiled sail, the tensioned cloth of the first section (SV1) of the profiled sail and the tensioned cloth of the second section (SV2) of the profiled sail extend discontinuously along the direction of the mast, the semi-rigid structure of said first intermediate cambering device (11), extending from the first section (SV1) of the profiled sail and the second section (SV2) of the profiled sail in the top position of the profiled sail ensuring transmission of the forces between the first section of the profiled sail and the second section of the profiled sail, - a removable fastening system, ensuring connection between the structural cambering devices, at least between the base cambering device (10), and said first intermediate cambering device (11), and possibly the connection between two successive intermediate cambering devices (11, 12, 13, 14), when the profiled sail is in an intermediate position between said top position of the profiled sail and the bottom position of the profiled sail, the structural cambering devices (10, 11, 12, 13, 14) in positions close to one another in all or part, with at least the base cambering device and the first intermediate cambering device close to one another, said fastening system comprising hooking points (PT) externally projecting along the first length section (20) and the second length section (20) of the structural cambering devices (10, 11, 12, 13, 14), as well as a flexible link (L1, L2) configured to hook on the hooking points (PT) of two successive cambering devices when the profiled sail is in said intermediate position with two successive cambering devices brought close to one another, while holding the section of the sail accumulated and connected to the two successive cambering devices, the cloth of the surplus accumulated first section (SV1) of the sail being held by said link (L1) of the fastening system joining the semi-rigid structure of the base cambering device (10) to the semi-rigid structure of the first intermediate cambering device (11) and so that said link (L1), and possibly an additional link (L2) joining the first intermediate cambering device (11) and a second intermediate cambering device (12) are configured so as to directly hook on the semi-rigid structures of the structural cambering devices, without creating a local tension on the sections (SV1, SV2, SV3, SV4, SV5) of the profiled sail.

2. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the hooking points (PT) consist of lugs or hooks externally projecting along the first length section (20) and the second length section (20) of the structural cambering devices (10, 11, 12, 13, 14).

3. The assembly according to claim 2, wherein the hooking points are hooks or lugs with enlarged ends.

4. The assembly according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said cambering devices comprise, in addition to the structural cambering devices (10, 11, 12, 13, 14) of the system for reducing the surface area of the profiled sail exposed to the wind, secondary cambering devices (100), cooperating with the different sections of the profiled sail, each in an intermediate position of the profiled section (SV1 to SV5) of the sail between the upper edge and the lower edge of said section of the profiled sail.

5. The assembly according to claim 4, wherein the semi-rigid structure of the structural cambering devices (10, 11, 12, 13, 14) of the system for reducing the surface area of the profiled sail exposed to the wind, has a height dimension (Lh), along the direction of the mast, larger than the height dimension (lh) of the secondary cambering devices (100).

6. The assembly according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the number of distinct sections (SV1 to SV5) of the profiled sail is equal to the integer number N between 2 and 10, such as N equals 5, and wherein the number of structural cambering devices (10 to 14) of the system for reducing the surface area of the profiled sail exposed to the wind is equal to the integer number N.

7. The assembly according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the different sections of the profiled sail are cloths having different properties, in particular different materials and / or different basis weights.

8. The assembly according to one of claims 1 to 7, comprising actuating means (4) interconnecting, on the one hand, the two free ends (23, 24) of the semi-rigid structure or at least one of the two free ends (23, 24) and, on the other hand, the U-shaped connecting section (22), configured to camber the first length section and the second length section of the semi-rigid structure by tensioning the two free ends (23, 34) with the U-shaped connecting section (22) of the semi-rigid structure (2), or at least by tensioning one of the two free ends (23, 24) with the U-shaped connecting section (22) of the semi-rigid structure (2), and generating an offset (d) between the two free ends (23, 24).

9. The assembly according to claim 8, wherein the actuating means (4) configured to camber the first length section and the second length section of the semi-rigid structure comprise at least one actuator (40, 41), having two longitudinal ends (40a; 41a, 40b; 41b), said actuator (40, 41) able to be activated, being retractable when activated with its two longitudinal ends being brought close to one another, said at least one actuator (40, 41) extending along one of the two length sections of the semi-rigid structure, the first length section (20) or the second length section (21), said actuator (40, 41) being internal to the semi-rigid structure (2), contained in a plane of the semi-rigid structure (2), and wherein one of the longitudinal ends (40a, 41a) of said at least one actuator (40, 41) is connected to one of the two free ends (23, 24) by an internal tendon (44) while the other one (41a, 41b) of the two longitudinal ends of said at least one actuator (40, 41) is connected either to an anchor point (221, 222) integral with the U-shaped connecting section (22), or to the other one of the two free ends (23, 24) via a bell crank (43) integral with the U-shaped connecting section (22) by an external tendon (42), the flexible external tendon (42) passing outside the semi-rigid structure (2), and the profiled sail between the bell crank (43) and respectively said other one of the two free ends (23, 24).

10. The assembly according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the actuating means (4) are configured to camber the semi-rigid structure selectively: - in a first cambered position (Pc1) in which said first length section (20) has a concave profile when said second length section (21) has a convex profile, - in a second cambered position (Pc2) in which said second length section (21) has a concave profile when said first length section (20) has a convex profile.

11. The assembly according to one of claims 9 and 10, wherein said at least one actuator of the actuating means comprises: - a first actuator (40) configured to camber the semi-rigid structure in said first cambered position (Pc1), extending along the first length section (20), internal to the semi-rigid structure, integral at one (40b) of the longitudinal ends thereof with the external tendon (42), connected, on the one hand, to the free end (23) of the first length section (20) by said flexible external tendon (42), which is external to the semi-rigid structure (2), via a first bell crank (431) integral with the U-shaped connecting section (22) the flexible external tendon (42) passing outside the semi-rigid structure (2) and the profiled sail between the first bell crank (431) and respectively the free end (23) of the first length section (20), the flexible external tendon (42) being internal to the semi-rigid structure between the first bell crank (431) and said first actuator (40), the first actuator (40) being integral at the other one of the longitudinal ends thereof with the internal tendon (44), said first actuator (40) connected; on the other hand; to the free end (24) of said second length section (21) by said internal tendon (44), which runs along the first length section (20) to a guide (45) integral with said first length section (20) before connecting said free end (24) of said second length section (21), the first actuator (40) being configured, in an active state, to be retracted and pull on the two free ends (23, 24) connected by the external tendon (42) and the internal tendon (44), on the one hand, and on the first bell crank (431), on the other hand, until the offset (d) is created, the end (24) connected by the internal tendon (44) advancing towards the leading edge (BA) relative to the free end (23) connected by the external tendon (42) while causing cambering of the semi-rigid structure, the stressed external tendon (42) moving away from the first length section (20), which adopts a concave profile, the second length section (21) adopting a convex profile in said first cambered position (Pc1), - a second actuator (41) configured to camber the semi-rigid structure in said second cambered position (Pc2), extending along the second length section (21) internal to the semi-rigid structure, integral at one of the longitudinal ends thereof with an external tendon (42), connected, on the one hand, to the free end (24) of the second length section (21) by the flexible external tendon (42), which is external to the semi-rigid structure (2), via a second bell crank (432) integral with the U-shaped connecting section, the flexible external tendon (42) passing outside the semi-rigid structure (2) and the profiled sail between the second bell crank (432) and respectively the free end (24) of the second length section (21), the flexible external tendon (42) being internal to the semi-rigid structure between the second bell crank (432) and said second actuator (41), the second actuator (41) being integral at the other one of the longitudinal ends thereof with the internal tendon (44), said second actuator (41) connected, on the other hand, to the free end (23) of said first length section (21) by said internal tendon (44) which runs along the second length section (21) to a guide (45) integral with said second length section (21) before connecting the free end (23) of said first length section (20), the second actuator (41) being configured, in an active state, to retract and pull on the two free ends (23, 24) connected by the external tendon (42) and the internal tendon (44), on the one hand, and on the second bell crank (432), on the other hand, until the offset (d) is created, the free end (23) connected by the internal tendon (44) advancing towards the leading edge (BA) relative to the free end (24) connected by the external tendon (42) while causing cambering of the semi-rigid structure (2), the stressed external tendon (42) moving away from the second length section (21), which adopts a concave profile, while said first length section (20) adopts a convex profile in said second cambered position (Pc2).

12. The assembly according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein all or part of the cambering devices have a securing system (7), able to be activated / deactivated, configured to ensure securing of the cambering device to the mast, the securing system (7) comprising: - a first flexible strand (71) connected to the first length section (21) by two longitudinal ends of the first strand (71), the first strand (71) bypassing the mast (M) from the first length section (20), - a second flexible strand (72) connected to the second length section (20) by two longitudinal ends of the second strand, the second strand (72) bypassing the mast (M) from the second length section (21), - an actuator system, able to be activated, internal to the structure configured to pass the first strand and the second strand into a retracted state configured to block the cambering device onto the mast (M), tightened between the first strand (71) and the second strand (72), inside the semi-rigid structure, the mast held at a distance from the two length sections (20, 21) by the tensioned first strand (71) and second strand (72), and up to a deployed state of the first strand and second strand configured to release the mast and enable movement of the cambering device along the mast.

13. The assembly according to claim 12, wherein the actuator system of the securing system comprises at least one actuating member (m1, m2) having two longitudinal ends (e1, e2), said actuating member, able to be activated, being retractable when activated with the two longitudinal ends (e1, e2) brought close to one another.

14. The assembly according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the cambering devices comprise in whole or in part a spacer system (3) comprises a first spacer (30), interconnecting the first length section (20) and the second length section (21), as well as a second spacer (31), interconnecting the first length section (20) and the second length section (21), in parallel to said first spacer (30) on the one hand, and the second length section 21, on the other hand, and wherein the longitudinal ends of the first strand (71) are secured at two attachment points on the first length section (20) respectively at the junction zones between the first and second spacers (30, 31) and the first length section (20), the longitudinal ends of the second strand (72) being secured at two attachment points to the second length section (21) respectively at the junction zones between the first and second spacers (30, 31), and wherein the mast (M) extends between the spacers consisting of the first spacer (30) and the second spacer (31), the first strand (71) and the second strand (72) tightened on the mast ensuring holding of the mast at a distance from the first spacer (30), on the one hand, and the mast at a distance from the second spacer (31), on the other hand.

15. The assembly according to one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the system for reducing the surface area of the profiled sail exposed to the wind includes a tightening device, configured to bring two structural cambering devices close to one another, in particular the base cambering device (10) with the intermediate cambering device(s) (11, 12, 13, 14), or even configured to bring two intermediate cambering devices (11, 12, 13, 14) close to one another, the tightening device comprising: - guides (8), such as castors, integral with the rigid structure (2) of two structural cambering devices to be brought close to one another, the guides arranged on an inner side of the semi-rigid structure (2), along the first length section (20) and / or along the second length section (21) - at least one tightening link (9) extending within the profiled sail, and which runs along the guides (8), while being guided by the guides, the guides (8) arranged alternately on the two cambering devices along the pathway of the link, the link fastened at a distal end (90) to the semi-rigid structure of one of the two cambering devices to be brought close to one another and so that the tightening device is configured so that a tension on the tightening link (9) causes the two structural cambering devices to be brought close to one another.

16. A sailboat comprising an assembly according to one of claims 1 to 15.

17. A method for reducing the surface area of the profiled sail exposed to the wind from an assembly according to one of claims 1 to 15 or belonging to a sailboat according to claim 16 from a top position of the profiled sail on the mast, the cambering devices (1) in positions separated from one another, and wherein reducing the surface area of the profiled sail exposed to the wind is performed by: - partially lowering the profiled sail into an intermediate position between said top position of the profiled sail and the bottom position, and by bringing at least the base cambering device (10) and said first intermediate cambering device (11) close to one another, and possibly at least two successive intermediate cambering devices (11 to 14), the structural cambering devices in positions close to one another in all or part, - placing the link of the fastening system between at least the base cambering device (10) and the first intermediate cambering device (11) brought close to one another, the cloth of the first section (SV1) of the sail, accumulated and held at least by the link (L1) joining the semi-rigid structure of the base cambering device (10) to the semi-rigid structure of the first intermediate cambering device (11), and possibly placing at least one additional link (L2) between the successive intermediate cambering devices (11, 12, 13, 14), the intermediate link holding the section of the sail accumulated between said intermediate cambering devices.