Cambering device for profiled sail

Abstract

A cambering device (1) for a profiled sail (V) comprising: - a semi-rigid, elastically deformable structure (2), including: - two length sections extending one in front of the other, forming respectively a first length section (20) integral with a first surface of the profiled sail and a second length section (21) integral with a second surface of the profiled sail (V), - a U-shaped connecting section (22) linking the two length sections, terminating at the trailing edge of the sail with two free ends (23, 24), - a strut system (3) configured to work in compression and tension, to maintain a gap between the two length sections (20, 21), - actuation means (4) linking the two free ends (23, 24) of the semi-rigid structure. Abstract figure: Figure 4

Description

Description Title of the invention: Cambering device for profiled sail

[0001] — This disclosure relates to a cambering device for profiled sail, as well that an assembly (in particular a rigging) comprising a streamlined sail and a plurality of bending devices according to this disclosure. technical field

[0002] — This disclosure falls within the domain of rigging, and more particularly of streamlined sails, also called "wing sails" or "thick sails" by the man of the craft, and more specifically the mechanisms, internal to sailing that allow change the sail profile Previous technique

[0003] — A frame device for profiled sails is known from document EP2718179B1, arranged internally within the thick sail and allowing its profile to be modified for the na- vigilance.

[0004] — Notably, this device comprises several adjustable frame elements in relation to each other, and of which at least one frame element presents a first contour assigned to a first surface of the profiled sail and a second contour assigned to a second profiled sail area. The frame device is adjustable, according to at least two operating positions allowing the profile of the Sail for navigation. The different positions of the frame elements are obtained. by means of ropes, visible in figure 4 of document EP2718179B1, which allow each to move the device into one of the two operating positions operation.

[0005] According to the inventor's findings, such a rigging, however, presents the incons- following venients: - significant fragility: the rigid frame elements are "hard" components internal to the streamlined sail, which are inherently fragile, but still susceptible to damage the sail, especially during maneuvers; - an inaccuracy in the control: the control cords allow for an ac- remote adjustment of the position of the frame elements according to the two positions operating principles, but undergo a variation in the length of their path during the deformation of the assembly under wind pressure, which causes a imprecision in the order; - a risk of entanglement: these control ropes, which extend along the height The rigging, depending on the direction of the mast, presents a risk of entanglement. important, between themselves, or with other elements of the rigging, for example when the sail is lowered. Summary This disclosure improves the situation, in whole or in part. A cambering device for profiled sails is proposed, comprising: - a semi-rigid, elastically deformable structure, including: -- two sections of length, extending one in front of the other, forming respectively a first section of length attached to a first surface of the profiled sail, and a second section of length attached to a second surface of the profiled sail, -- a U-shaped connecting section, linking together by extending 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 with two free ends, - a spacer system, comprising at least one spacer connecting the first length section and the second length section, configured to work in compression and tension, to maintain a gap between the two length sections, - actuation means linking together, on the one hand, the two free ends of the semi-rigid structure, and on the other hand, the U-shaped connecting section, configured to camber 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, and generating an offset between the two free ends. The actuator(s) of the actuation means is / are preferably internal to the profiled sail, integrated into the semi-rigid structure, and in particular internal to the semi-rigid structure. According to one embodiment, the semi-rigid structure has a profile having a plane of symmetry, in a rest position of the semi-rigid structure, elastic in which the first section of length and the second section of length each have a convex profile, and in which, in at least one cambered position of the semi-rigid structure under the action of the actuation means, said first section of length has a concave profile when said second section of length has a convex profile, or said second section of length has a concave profile when said first section of length has a convex profile. According to one embodiment, the actuation means are configured to selectively camber the semi-rigid structure: - in a first cambered position in which said first length section has a concave profile when said second length section is convex profile. - in a second cambered position in which said second length section has a concave profile when said first length section has a convex profile. According to one embodiment, the actuation means comprise at least one actuator, extending along one of the two length sections of the structure, first length section (or second length section), connected to the free end of the length section by a flexible tendon, external to the semi-rigid structure, via a right-angle drive integral with the U-shaped connecting section, and by an internal tendon which runs along the length section to a guide before connecting to the free end of the other length section, second length section (or first length section), said actuator being configured to retract in an active state and pull on the two free ends connected by the external tendon and the internal tendon, on the one hand, and on the right-angle drive of the connecting section, on the other hand, until the offset is created,The free end connected by the inner tendon advances towards the leading edge relative to the free end connected by the outer tendon, causing the semi-rigid structure to camber. The stressed outer tendon moves away from the length section, first length section (or second length section), immediately adjacent to the outer tendon, which then takes on a concave profile, while the other length section, second length section or first length section, takes on a convex profile. According to one embodiment, the actuation means include: - a first actuator configured to camber the structure into said first cambered position, extending along the first length section connected to the free end of the length section by an external, flexible tendon to the semi-rigid structure, via a first right-angle link attached to the U-shaped connecting section, and by an internal tendon which runs along the first length section to a guide of said first length section before connecting the free end of said second length section, the first actuator being configured to retract and pull on the two free ends connected by the external and internal tendons, on the one hand, and on the first right-angle link, on the other hand, until the offset is created, the free end connected by the internal tendon advancing towards the leading edge relative to the free end connected by the external tendon, causing the camber of the semi-rigid structure,the stressed external tendon moving away from the first lengthwise section which takes on a concave profile, the second lengthwise section taking on a convex profile in said first arched position, - a second actuator configured to camber the structure into said second cambered position, extending along the second length section connected to the free end of the length section by an external, flexible tendon to the semi-rigid structure, via a second right-angle drive integral with the U-shaped connecting section, and by an internal tendon which runs along the second length section to a guide of said second length section before connecting the free end of said first length section, the second actuator being configured to retract and pull on the two free ends connected by the external and internal tendons, on the one hand, and on the second right-angle drive, on the other hand, until the offset is created, the free end connected by the internal tendon advancing towards the leading edge relative to the free end connected by the external tendon causing the semi-rigid structure to camber, the stressed external tendon moving away from the second length section which takes on a concave profile,whereas the said first section of length takes on a convex profile in the said second cambered position. According to one embodiment, the bending device includes a control means configured to selectively: - activate the first actuator while keeping the second actuator inactive to induce the aforementioned first arched position, - activate the second actuator while keeping the first actuator inactive to cause said second arched position. According to one embodiment, said at least one actuator, where applicable first actuator and second actuator, is an artificial muscle, contracting when supplied with pressure by a fluid, and relaxing when the fluid pressure decreases. According to one embodiment, the bending device includes a flexible linking system, joining the first length section and the second length section, in an intermediate position between the two free ends and said spacer system; said flexible linking system working in tension to maintain a spacing between the two length sections.This flexible link system may comprise two flexible links, including a first flexible link fixed at both ends to the first length section, and a second flexible link fixed at both ends to the second length section, the two flexible links, first flexible link and second flexible link being intertwined at a contact zone between the two flexible links, the contact zone between the two flexible links being configured to slide along the flexible links during bending and offsetting of the free ends; under the effect of the actuation means. According to one embodiment, the spacer system may include a first spacer, connecting the first length section and the second length section, and a second spacer, connecting the first section of length and the second section of length, in a manner parallel to the said first spacer. According to one embodiment, the strut or each strut of the strut system is pivotally articulated at its ends, respectively at the first length section along an axis perpendicular to the plane of the semi-rigid structure and at the second length section along an axis perpendicular to the plane of the semi-rigid structure, the strut or each strut being configured to pivot relative to the two length sections, first length section and second length section, during the bending and offsetting of the free ends; under the effect of the actuation means. For this purpose, the bending device may include articulated fittings, comprising a first part fixed to the first length section (or the second length section), and a second part receiving one end of the spacer, the second part being articulated to the first part along a pivot axis substantially perpendicular to the plane of the semi-rigid structure to pivot relative to the two length sections during the bending and offsetting of the free ends; under the effect of the actuation means. According to one embodiment, the spacer system includes a telescopic spacer connecting the first length section and the second length section, configured to extend and retract within a limited stroke, working in compression in a retracted position of lesser spacing, and working in tension in a deployed position with greater spacing. The semi-rigid structure comprising the connecting section and the two length sections, including the first and second length sections, may be formed by a single, continuous semi-rigid element, held curved by the strut system; and, where applicable, said connecting system, flexible. The single-piece element may be a rod or a blade, curved to form the first connecting section, the second connecting section, and the U-shaped connecting section. According to one embodiment, said cambering device may include means for fixing two edges of the profiled sail, at the trailing edge, including for each free end, a first support integral with the free end, having a bearing surface, and a second support mounted removable, and having a counter-support surface, as well as clamping means between the first support and the second support configured to pinch an edge of the sail between the bearing surface and the counter-support surface of the first and second support. According to another aspect, a set is proposed, for example rigging, comprising a profiled sail and a plurality of cambering devices as disclosed herein, and in which the semi-rigid structure of each cambering device comprises the first section of length attached to a first surface of the profiled sail, and the second section of length attached to a second surface of the profiled sail, as well as the U-shaped connecting section, linking them together by extending the first section of length and the second section of length at the level of the leading edge of the profiled sail, the two sections of length ending at the level of the trailing edge of the sail with two free ends. According to one embodiment, the profiled sail is supported by a mast extending internally within the semi-rigid structures of the cambering devices, in the space between the first length section and the second length section. When the strut system comprises the first strut, connecting the first and second length sections, and the second strut, connecting the first and second length sections, parallel to the first strut, the mast can extend internally within each semi-rigid structure at the level of the space defined between the first and second struts of the strut system. Alternatively, the spacer system may include a single spacer connecting the first length section and the second length section, and in particular positioned in front of or behind the mast. The said assembly may include a halyard (rope) for hoisting the profiled sail and the cambering devices along the mast, and for lowering the sail with its cambering devices when the halyard is released. This disclosure further relates to a sailing vehicle comprising an assembly including rigging as detailed in this disclosure. This disclosure further relates to a wind turbine comprising an assembly including rigging as detailed in this disclosure. Brief description of the drawings Other features, details, and advantages will become apparent upon reading the detailed description below and analyzing the attached drawings, including: Fig. 1 [Fig. 1] shows a schematic view of a rig with a profiled sail and a plurality of cambering devices in their rest position. The cambering devices are configured to camber the profiled sail selectively in a first and second direction. The profiled sail is supported by a mast extending internally within the semi-rigid structures of the cambering devices. Fig. 1a [fig.1a] is a schematic view of the section of the profiled sail, shown in solid lines in the rest position of the cambering device, and in dashed lines in two positions distinct curves, in one direction and then the other relative to the resting position. Fig. 2 [fig.2] shows an embodiment of the cambering device (flexible tendon and pneumatic muscles of the actuation means not shown) including the semi-rigid structure, in its rest position, formed of a curved rod forming the link section, the first length section and the second length section, as well as a first angle drive and a second angle drive, both each comprising a pulley, the spacer system including the first spacer and the second spacer, the flexible link system, including the first flexible link and the second flexible link intertwined 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 solid 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 semi-rigid elastic structure under the action of actuation means (not shown). Fig. 4 [fig.4] is a view of the cambering device of figure 3, the actuation means fully illustrated, including the first actuator in the form of a pneumatic muscle running along the first length section in a deployed (non-activated) state, connected to the free end of the first section by an external tensioner via a first right-angle drive, and connected to the free end of the second section by an internal tensioner, the actuation 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 external tendon via a second right-angle drive, and connected to the free end of the first length section by an internal 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 right-angle drive attached to the U-shaped connecting section, on the other hand.Fig. 5. [fig.5] is a detailed view of the strut system of the semi-rigid structure, including the first strut and the second strut. Fig. 6 [fig.6] is a detail view of the hinged fitting connecting each of the spacers to the first (or second) length section. Fig. 7 [fig.7] is a view of the flexible link system, including the first flexible link so- secured at both ends to the first length section, and the second flexible link secured at both ends to the second length section, the first flexible link and the second flexible link being intertwined, working in tension to maintain a gap between the first length section and the second length section. Fig. 8 [fig.8] is a detailed view of the guide, attached to the first length section (or the second length section) and ensuring guidance of the inner tendon close to the free end. Fig. 9 [fig.9] is a detailed view of the fastening means attached to the free end of the first length section (or the second length section) comprising the first support attached to the first length section (or the second length section) having a bearing surface, a second support comprising a counter-support surface, the means being configured to pinch the edge of the profiled sail between the bearing surface and the counter-support surface, under the effect of clamping means of the fastening means. Fig. 10 [Fig. 10] are two detailed views of a strut system comprising a telescopic strut, respectively in a deployed position of the telescopic strut configured to work in tension (left view) and in a retracted position configured to work in compression (right view). Description of embodiments The drawings and description below contain, for the most part, elements of a definite nature. They may therefore not only serve to better explain this disclosure, but also contribute to its definition, if necessary. This disclosure also relates to a cambering device | for V-shaped sails comprising: - a semi-rigid structure 2, elastically deformable, including: -- two sections of length, extending one in front of the other, forming respectively a first section of length 20 attached to a first surface S1 of the profiled sail V, and a second section of length 21 attached to a second surface S2 of the profiled sail V, -- a U-shaped connecting section 22, linking together by extending the first section of length 20 and the second section of length 21 at the leading edge BA of the profiled sail, the two sections of length ending at the trailing edge BF of the sail with two free ends 23,24, - a spacer system 3, comprising at least one spacer connecting the first section of length 20 and the second section of length 21, configured to work in compression and tension, to maintain a gap between the two sections of length 20,21, - actuation 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 camber 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 d between the two free ends 23,24. As illustrated for guidance in Figure 1, a profiled sail can be provided with several cambering devices conforming to this disclosure, internal to the profiled sail. The cambering devices are distributed along the height of the profiled sail. The semi-rigid structure 2 of each cambering device 1 comprises the first section of length 20 attached to a first surface SI of the profiled sail V, and the second section of length 21 attached to a second surface S2 of the profiled sail V, as well as the U-shaped connecting section 22, linking them by extending the first section of length 20 and the second section of length 21 at the leading edge BA of the profiled sail, the two sections of length terminating at the trailing edge BF of the sail with two free ends 23, 24. The streamlined, flexible sail extends from one of the free ends 23, 24, to the other, passing in front of the connecting section 22; a U-shape forms the leading edge BA. The streamlined sail can be attached by two sail edges to the free ends 23, 24 using fastening means, in particular by pinching the sail edges. Along the length of the two sections, the first section 20 and the second section 21, removable fasteners, such as loop / hook bands, can be provided to secure the sail along the sections 20 and 21. Control means are configured to jointly control, in the same direction, the various actuation 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 assume a (in particular, first) cambered position in which the first section of length 20 takes on a concave profile when the second section of length takes on a convex profile and / or a (in particular, second) cambered position in which said second section of length 21 has a concave profile when said first section of length 20 has a convex profile. This disclosure also relates to an assembly such as a rig comprising a V-shaped sail and a plurality of cambering devices 1 according to this disclosure. The semi-rigid structure 2 of each cambering device 1, comprises the first section of length 20 attached to a first surface S1 of the profiled sail V, and the second section of length 21 attached to a second surface S2 of the profiled sail V, as well as the U-shaped connecting section 22, linking together by extending the first section of length 20 and the second section of length 21 at the leading edge BA of the profiled sail, the two sections of length ending at the trailing edge BF of the sail by two free ends 23,24. The assembly, including the rigging, may include a mast M, the said profiled sail V being carried by the mast M extending internally within the semi-rigid structures 2 of the cambering devices 1, in the inter-space between the said first section of length 20 and the said second section of length 21. It should also be noted that a particular assembly, including a rigging according to the present disclosure, advantageously allows the sail to be lowered along the mast M, the cambering devices (with the possible exception of the one forming the boom); attached to the profiled sail, descending with the profiled sail along the mast, in particular when the halyard is released (in the opposite direction to that of hoisting the profiled sail). The present disclosure also relates to a vehicle including such rigging: and in particular a sailing ship or boat, or even a land yacht. The camber position can be adjusted during maneuvers, for example by moving from the first camber position Pc1 to the second camber position Pc2 of the cambering devices (of reverse concavity) during tack maneuvers, whether they are tacking or gybing maneuvers. The actuators used for the actuator means can be progressive (rather than on / off) and take several positions, allowing for greater or lesser camber of the first and second sail surfaces, in either direction. It is possible to adjust the concavity of the sail surface in contact with the wind to maximize the force required to propel the vehicle forward, depending on the wind conditions. The lowest cambering device can simultaneously act as a boom, hinged to the mast, allowing the sail to be oriented. The boom is oriented according to the wind conditions and the ship's direction of travel. The semi-rigid structure 2 comprising the connecting section 22 and the two length sections, can be constituted by a single semi-rigid element, kept curved by the spacer system 3; and where applicable said flexible connecting system 5, which is described below. For example, said single-piece element is a rod, in particular straight 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 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 can be made up 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). Alternatively, the different sections of the semi-rigid structure 2, including the first section of length 20 and the second section of length 21 and the connecting section 22, can be made up of several structural elements assembled together. According to one embodiment, the strut system 3 comprises a first strut 30, connecting the first section of length 20 and the second section of length 21, and a second strut 31, connecting the first section of length 20 and the second section of length 21, for example parallel to said first strut 30. It is noted that the mast M of the rigging can extend into an interspace between the first strut 30 and the second strut 31. Each strut 30, 31 of the strut system 3 can be pivoted at its ends, respectively to the first section of length 20 along a (first) axis perpendicular to the plane of the semi-rigid structure and to the second section of length 21 along a (second) axis perpendicular to the plane of the semi-rigid structure. Each strut 30, 31 is then advantageously configured to pivot relative to the two sections of length, first section of length 20 and second section of length 21, during the bending and offsetting of the free ends 23, 24; under the effect of the actuation means 4. For this purpose, articulated fittings 32, comprising a first part 33 attached to the first section of length 20 (or the second section of length 21), and a second part 34 receiving one end of the spacer 30; 31, can be used. As shown in Figures 5 and 6 by way of example, the second part 34 is articulated to the first part 33 along a pivot axis substantially perpendicular to the plane of the semi-rigid structure 2 so as to pivot relative to the two sections of length during the bending and offsetting of the free ends 23, 24; under the effect of the actuation means 4. According to one embodiment, the spacer system comprises a telescopic spacer 35, connecting in particular the first section of length 20 and the second section of length 21, configured to extend and retract within a limited stroke. This telescopic spacer 35 works in compression in a retracted position P1 with a smaller gap, and works in tension in an extended position P2 with a larger gap. Such a telescopic spacer is illustrated in the views of Figure 10, as by way of non-limiting example, respectively in its deployed position P2 (left) and in its retracted position P1 (right). This telescopic spacer may comprise two telescopic sections, namely a first telescopic section 350 and a second telescopic section 351, configured to slide into one another to move from the retracted position P1 to the deployed position P2 of the telescopic spacer 35. The end of travel in the retracted position Pl (compression work) can be obtained by bringing sections 350 and 351 together, for example with the fitting 32. The end of travel in the deployed position P2 (extension work) can be obtained by a flexible link 36, connecting the two telescopic sections 350, 351 of the spacer, configured in the tensioned state in the deployed position P2, and in the relaxed state in the retracted position P1 of the telescopic spacer 35. For example, the flexible link 36 connects the second parts 34 of two fittings 32, receiving respectively one end of the first telescopic section 350, and one end of a second telescopic section. Such a telescopic spacer can be used at the head of the sail (i.e. near the leading edge) and especially when the reduction of the profile chord implies a thickness less than the maximum diameter of the mast. The bending device 1 may have a flexible linking system 5, joining together the first section of length 20 and the second section of length 21. This flexible linking system is arranged in an intermediate position of the structure between the two free ends 23,34 and said spacer system 3; said flexible linking system 5, working in tension to maintain a spacing between the two sections of length. It should also be noted that the spacer system 3 and the flexible link system 5 both extend internally to the semi-rigid structure 2, in the inter-space 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. The flexible link system 5 comprises two flexible links, including a first flexible link 50 attached at both ends to the first section of length 20, and a second flexible link 51 attached at both ends to the second section of length 21. The two flexible links, first flexible link 50 and second flexible link 51, are intertwined 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 displacement of the free ends 23, 24, under the effect of the actuation means 4. Thus, whether it is the spacer system, when the spacer or each spacer is hinged at its ends to the two length sections (first length section) 20 or second section of length 21), or the flexible link system with the possibility of sliding the contact area between the two flexible links, these two systems promote the offset between free ends 23 24, when the actuation means 4 are activated. The semi-rigid structure 2 may have a profile with 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 Figure 2, the plane of symmetry of the semi-rigid structure 2 in its rest position extends along 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 U-shaped connecting section 22. In at least one cambered position Pc1 and / or Pc2 of the semi-rigid structure 2 under the action of the actuation means 4, said first section of length 20 is of concave profile when said second section of length 21 is of convex profile, or said second section of length 21 is of concave profile when said first section of length 20 is of convex profile. According to one embodiment, the actuation means 4 are configured to selectively camber the semi-rigid structure: - in a first cambered position Pcl 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 cambered position Pc2 in which said second section of length 21 is concave in profile when said first section of length 20 is convex in profile. The actuation means 4 may include 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 drive 43 integral with the U-shaped connecting section, and by an internal tendon 44 which runs along the length section to a guide 45, before connecting the free end 24 or 23 of the other length section, second length section 21 or first length section 20. The said at least angle return 43 is located on the side of the plane of symmetry (and not on the latter) of the semi-rigid structure 2 whose length section profile (first length section or second length section) we want to change from the convex profile to the concave profile. When the actuation means allow both positions to be obtained Cambered Pcl and Pc2, two angle drives arranged on either side of the plane of symmetry allow the semi-rigid structure to be cambered in these two cambered positions respectively: - a first angle return 431, integral with the connecting section 22, disposed on the side of the first section of length 20 (with respect to the plane of symmetry) is stressed to allow the change of profile of the first section of length 20 (and therefore the first surface SI of the profiled sail) from the convex profile in the rest position Pr of the semi-rigid structure 2 to the said first cambered position Pcl where the first section of length 20 takes the concave profile; - a second angle return 432, attached to the connecting section; located on the side of the second section of length 21 (relative to the plane of symmetry), is used to enable 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 the said second cambered position Pc2 where the second section of length 21 takes the concave profile. The 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 external tendon 42 and the internal tendon 44, on the one hand, and on the angle return 43 of the connecting section 22, on the other hand, until the creation of the offset d, the free end connected by the internal tendon 44 advancing towards the leading edge BA relative to the free end connected by the external tendon 42 causing the camber of the semi-rigid structure, the stressed external tendon 42 moving away from the length section, first length section (or second length section, immediately adjacent to the external tendon 42), which then takes on a concave profile, and while the other length section, second length section or first length section, takes on a convex profile. The offset of the free ends 23,24 allows the change of 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. The change in profile of the first section of length 20 is initiated, in particular from the convex profile in the rest position Pr to a concave profile in the first cambered position Pc1, 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. Therefore, the concavity of the first section of length 20 can be accentuated by the actuation means 4, by the traction of the external tendon 42 connecting the first angle return 431 and the free end 23 (like the string of a bow). The change in profile of the second section of length 21 is initiated, in particular from the convex profile in the rest position Pr to a concave profile in the first cambered position Pc2, by shifting 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. Therefore, the concavity of the second section of length 21 can be accentuated by the actuation means 4, by the traction of the external tendon 42 connecting the second angle drive 432 and the free end 24 (like the string of a bow). The external tendon 42 means the fact that the flexible tendon passes outside the semi-rigid structure 2, and of the sail between the angle drive 43 — first angle drive 431 or second angle drive 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 drive and the actuator (first actuator 40 or second actuator 41). The external tendon 42 between the angle drive (first angle drive 431 or second angle drive 432) and the free end (free end 23 or 24) is still external to the profiled sail, in particular external to the first sail surface S1 between the first angle drive 431 and the free end 23 and external to the second sail surface S2 between the second angle drive 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 external tendon 42 at the level of the first angle drive 431 (respectively the second angle drive 432). When the first sail surface S1 takes on a concave surface under the action of the first section of length 20, the external tendon 42 also moves away from this first profiled sail surface S1. When the second sail surface S2 takes on a concave surface under the action of the first section of length 22, the external tendon 42 also moves away from this first profiled sail surface S2. According to one embodiment, the actuation means include: - a first actuator 40 configured to camber the semi-rigid structure into said first cambered position Pc1, extending along the first section of length 20 connected to the free end 23 of the first section of length by an external, flexible tendon 42, to the semi-rigid structure 2, via a first right-angle drive 431 integral with the U-shaped connecting section 22, and by an internal tendon 44 which runs along the first section of length 20 to a guide 45 of said first section of length 20 before connecting to the free end 24 of said second section of length 21, the first actuator 40 being configured 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 first angle drive 431, on the other hand, until the creation of the offset d, the end connected 24 by the internal tendon 44 advancing towards the leading edge BA relative to the free end 23 connected by the external tendon 42 causing the camber of the semi-rigid structure, the stressed external tendon 42 moving away from the first section of length 20 which takes a concave profile, the second section of length 21 taking a convex profile in said first cambered position Pcl, - a second actuator 41 configured to camber the semi-rigid structure into said second cambered position Pc2, extending along the second length section 21 connected to the free end 24 of the second length section by an external tendon 42, flexible to the semi-rigid structure 2, via a second right-angle drive 432 integral with the U-shaped connecting section 22, and by an internal tendon 44 which runs along the second length section 21 to a guide 45 of said second length section 21 before connecting to the free end 23 of said first length section 20, the second actuator 41 being configured 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 right-angle drive 432, on the other hand, until the offset d is created,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 camber of the semi-rigid structure 2, the stressed outer tendon 42 moving away from the second section of length 21 which takes on a concave profile, while the said first section of length 20 takes on a convex profile in the said second cambered position Pc2. , According to one embodiment, the bending device includes a control means configured to selectively: - activate the first actuator 40 while keeping the second actuator 41 inactive to induce said first cambered position Pc1, - activate the second actuator 41 while keeping the first actuator 40 not activated to cause said second cambered position Pc2. The control means can still allow adjustment of the concavity depth setting when the actuator, first actuator 40 and / or second actuator 41 is a progressive actuator. Said at least one actuator, where applicable 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 has a casing that internally houses a fed balloon or discharged of fluid. The flexible sleeve retracts in length when its cross-section increases due to the increase in the volume of the supplied balloon or fluid (muscle contraction), and extends in length when its cross-section decreases as the balloon is discharged of fluid (decrease in fluid pressure). The actuator's retraction can be gradual by controlling the amount of fluid supplied to the balloon. Such pneumatic actuation systems are commonly called "artificial muscles," consisting of inflatable tubes inserted into protective braids forming a sheath. 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," vol. 320, pp. 105-114, 1995. Such an actuator has the following advantages: - to avoid requiring the electrification of the streamlined sail, - to be a flexible component; unlikely to be aggressive to the surfaces of the profiled sail, avoiding the risk of tearing. This flexible actuator can extend: - with regard to the first actuator 40 along the first section of length 20, between the two spacers, first spacer 30 and second spacer 31, - regarding the second actuator 41 along the second section of length 21, between the two spacers, first spacer 30 and second spacer 31. When the two struts receive the mast M between them, this positioning of the flexible actuators is advantageous because these actuators, being flexible, provide, in addition to their primary function as actuators, a protective buffer for the semi-rigid structure. For example, during tacks, jibes, or gybes, the inner mast may shift its support from the first section, length 20, to the second section, length 21 (or vice versa), during changes in the sail's orientation and profile. The flexible actuators then advantageously dampen and protect the length sections from the shocks resulting from these changes in support. An example of a guide 45 is illustrated in Figure 8; the actuator—first actuator 40 or second actuator 41—is fixed, on the one hand, at one of its longitudinal ends to the external tendon 42, which extends between the actuator and the right-angle drive 43—first right-angle drive 431 or second right-angle drive 432—along the length section 20 or 21, before passing outwards; and on the other hand, to the internal tendon, which runs to the guide 45 fixed on the same side of the plane of symmetry as the right-angle drive—first right-angle drive or second right-angle drive—cooperating with the actuator, before connecting the free end of the length section to the length section located opposite the actuator, namely the second length section or the first length section. length. In figure 8, the guide 45 consists of a simple loop formed by a loop. Finally, figure 9 illustrates an example of means of fixing 6 two edges of the V-profile sail, at the trailing edge BF. These fastening means 6 may include, for each free end 23, 34, a first support 60 fixed to the free end 23 or 24, having a bearing surface, and a second removable support 61, having a counter-support surface, as well as clamping means between the first support 60 and the second support 61 configured to clamp a sail edge between the bearing surface and the counter-support surface of the first and second supports. The clamping means may be screw systems. Industrial application These technical solutions can be applied particularly in the maritime field of sailing ships, as an improved rigging solution. Since cambering devices consist of a semi-rigid elastically deformable structure, or even, where appropriate, flexible actuator(s), they are particularly suitable for a marine environment, where rigging elements may be subjected to shocks, under the action of wind or unforeseen maneuvering events. Since the actuators—particularly the first and second actuators—are integrated within the semi-rigid structure itself, and specifically within the plane of the semi-rigid structure, the length of the flexible links—internal and external tendons—that control the structure's camber is minimized. Control accuracy is improved by avoiding the use of remote actuators located away from the cambering systems. Such remote actuators require control links of substantial length, which impair control accuracy, and are prone to elongation under stress. Furthermore, these links present a significant risk of entanglement with other parts of the rigging. Notably, this disclosure also has an application in the wind energy sector. This disclosure also relates to a wind turbine comprising a profiled sail equipped with one or more cambering devices (1) as defined in this disclosure. List of reference signs - 1: Bending device, - 2 Semi-rigid structure - 20.21: First length section and second length section, - 22. U-shaped connecting section - 23.34: Free extremities, - 3. Spacer system, - 30, 31. First spacer and second spacer, - 32. Connection, - 33, 34. First part and second part (connection), - 35. Telescopic spacer - 350, 351. First telescopic section and second telescopic section, - 36. Flexible link (with limit switch function in extension) - 4 Means of actuation, - 40,41. Actuators, first and second; - 42 External tendon(s) - 43. Angle drives, in particular first angle drive 431, and second angle drive 432 - 44. Tendon, internal, flexible, - 45. Guides -5. Flexible connection system - 50. First flexible link, - 51. Second flexible link - BA. Leading edge - BF Trailing edge - V. Streamlined sail - d: offset between the two free ends - ZC. Contact zone between the two flexible links - Pr. Resting position, - Pcl. First camber position, - PC2, Second camber position, - P1,P2. Retracted and deployed position (telescopic spacer).

Claims

Demands

1. Bending device (1) for profiled sail (V) comprising: - a semi-rigid structure (2), elastically deformable, including: -- two sections of length, extending one in front of the other, forming respectively a first section of length (20) attached to a first surface (S1) of the profiled sail (V), and a second section of length (21) attached to a second surface (S2) of the sail streamlined (V), -- a U-shaped connecting section (22), linking them together by extending them the first section of length (20) and the second section of length (21) at the leading edge (LA) of the streamlined sail, the two length sections ending at the trailing edge (BF) of the sail with two free ends (23,24), - a spacer system (3), comprising at least one spacer connecting the first section of length (20) and the second section length (21), configured to work in compression and in tension, to maintain a gap between the two sections of length (20,21), - actuation means (4) linking 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 camber the first section length and the second section length of the structure semi-rigid by tensioning the two free ends (23,34) with the U-shaped connecting section (22) of the semi-rigid structure (2), and the generation of an offset (d) between the two free ends (23,24).

2. Bending device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the structure semi-rigid (2) has a profile with a plane of symmetry, in a rest position (Pr) of the semi-rigid structure (2) in which the first section of length (20) and second section of length (21) have a convex profile, and in which at least one cambered position (Pc1; Pc2) of the semi-rigid structure (2) under the action actuation means (4), said first section of length (20) is of concave profile when said second section of length (21) is convex in profile, or the said second section of length (21) is of concave profile when said first section of length (20) has a convex profile.

3. Bending device {1) according to claim | or 2, wherein the actuation means (4) are configured to camber the structure selectively semi-rigid: - in a first arched position (Pc1) in which said first section of length (20) is of concave profile when said the second section of length (21) has a convex profile, - in a second arched position (Pc2) in which said second section of length (21) is of concave profile when said the first section of length (20) has a convex profile.

4. Bending device (1) according to any one of claims | to 3, in which the actuation means (4) include at least one actuator (40, 41), extending along one of the two length sections of the structure, first section of length (20) or second section of length (21), connected to the free end (23 or 24) of the section of length by an external tendon (42), flexible, external to the structure semi-rigid (2), via a right-angle drive (43,) integral with the section of U-shaped connection, and by an internal tendon (44) which runs along the section of length up to a guide (45) before connecting the end free (24 or 23) of the other length section, second section of length (21) or first section of length (20), said actuator (40; 41) being configured to retract into an active state 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 angle return (43) of the connecting section (22), on the other hand, up to the creation of the offset (d), the free end connected by the internal tendon (44) advancing towards the leading edge (BA) relative to the free end connected by the tendon exterior (42) by causing the semi-rigid structure to camber, the external tendon (42) under stress, moving away from the length section, first length section or second length section, immediately directly adjacent to the external tendon (42), which then takes on a profile concave, and while the other section of length, second section of length or first section of length, takes on a convex profile.

5. Cambering device (1) according to claims 3 and 4, wherein the Means of actuation include: - a first actuator (40) configured to camber the structure in said first curved position (Pc1), extending along the first section of length (20) connected to the free end (23) of the section of length by an external tendon (42), flexible, with a semi-rigid structure (2), via a first angle transfer (431) integral with the connecting section (22), in a U-shape, and by an internal tendon (44) which runs along the first section of length (20) up to a guide (5) of said first section of length (20) before connecting the free end (24) of said second section of length (21), the first actuator (40) being configured to retract and pull on both free ends (23, 24) connected by the external tendon (42) and the internal tendon (44), on the one hand, and on the first angle reference (431), on the other hand, up to the creation of the offset (d), the end connected (24) by the inner tendon (44) advancing towards the leading edge (BA) relative to the end free (23) connected by the external tendon (42) causing the arching of the semi-rigid structure, the stressed external tendon (42) moves away from the first section of length (20) which takes on a concave profile, the second section length (21) taking a convex profile in said first arched position (Pc1), - a second actuator (41) configured to camber the structure in said second curved position (Pc2), extending along the second section of length (21) connected to the free end (24) of the section length by a tendon (42), external, flexible to the structure semi-rigid (2), via a second right-angle drive (432) fixed to the U-shaped connecting section, and by an internal tendon (44) which runs along from the second length section (21) up to a guide (45) of said second section of length (21) before connecting the free end (23) of the said first section of length (20), the second actuator (41) being configured to retract and pull on both free ends (23, 24) connected by the external tendon (42) and the internal tendon (44), on the one hand, and on the second right-angle reference (432), on the other hand, up to the creation of the offset (d), the free end (23) connected by the tendon interior (44) extending towards the leading edge (BA) relative to the free end (24) connected by the external tendon (42) causing the camber of the semi-rigid structure (2), the external tendon (42) stressed 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 cambered position (Pc2).

6. Cambering device (1) according to claim 5 comprising a means piloting configured to selectively: - activate the first actuator (40) while holding the second actuator tioner (41) not activated to cause said first position arched (Pc1), - activate the second actuator (41) while holding the first actuator tioner (40) not activated to cause said second position arched (PC2)

7. Bending device (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, in which said at least one actuator, where applicable first ac- The second actuator (40) and second actuator (41) is an artificial muscle, se contracting when pressurized by a fluid, and relaxing when the fluid pressure decreases.

8. Bending device {1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7 having a flexible linking system (5), joining together the first section of length (20) and the second section of length (21), in a intermediate position between the two free ends (23,34) and said spacer system (3); said flexible, working linking system (5) under tension to maintain a gap between the two sections of length.

9. Bending device (1) according to claim 8, wherein the system flexible link (5); comprises two flexible links, including one first flexible link (50) secured at both ends to the first section of length (20), and a second flexible link (51) secured by its two ends to the second length section (21), the two links flexible, first flexible link (50) and second flexible link (51) being in- interlaced at a contact zone (Zc) between the two links flexible, the contact zone (CZ) between the two flexible links being configured to slide along flexible links (50,51) during the camber and offset of the free ends (23,24); under the effect of actuation means (4).

10. A bending device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, the system spacer (3) includes a first spacer (30), connecting between they the first section of length (20) and the second section of length (21), as well as a second spacer (31), connecting them the first section of length (20) and the second section of length (21), in parallel with said first spacer (30).

11. | Bending device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the or each spacer (30,31) of the spacer system (3) is articulated in pivot at its ends, respectively at the first section of length (20) along an axis perpendicular to the plane of the semi-rigid structure and to the second section of length (21) along an axis perpendicular to the plan of the semi-rigid structure, the or each spacer (30,31) being configured to pivot relative to the two length sections, first section of length (20) and second section of length (21) during the cambering and offsetting of the free ends (23,24); under the effect of the means of actuation (4).

12. A bending device according to claim 11, comprising fittings (32) articulated, comprising a first part (33) integral with the first section of length (20) or of the second section of length (21), and 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 sections length during the cambering and offsetting of the free ends (23,24); under the effect of the means of actuation (4).

13. A bending device according to any one of claims 1 to 12 in which the The spacer system includes a telescopic spacer (35), connecting the first section of length (20) and the second section of length (21), configured to extend and retract within a limited stroke and work in compression in a retracted position (P1) of less spacing, and working in traction in a deployed position (P2) ruled out.

14. A bending device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the semi-rigid structure (12) comprising the connecting section (22) and the two length sections, including the first length section (20) and the second section of length (21) is constituted by a semi-rigid, one-piece element, held curved by the system spacer (3); and, where applicable, said flexible connecting system (5).

15. Bending device according to claim 14 wherein said element a single piece is a rod, or a blade, curved to form the first connecting section (20), second connecting section (21) and the U-shaped connecting section (22).

16. Bending device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 15 including means for attaching (6) two edges of the sail streamlined (V), at the trailing edge (BF), including for each free end (23,24), a first support (60) fixed to the end free (23 or 24), presenting a bearing surface, and a second support (61) removablely mounted, and has a counter-support surface, as well as clamping means between the first support (60) and the second support (61) configured to pinch a sail edge between the surface support and counter-support surface of the first support and second support

17. Assembly, for example rigging, comprising a streamlined sail (V) and a plurality of cambering devices (1) according to any one of the re- claims 1 to 16 and in which the semi-rigid structure (2) of each bending device (1), includes the first section of length (20) attached to a first surface {S!} of the profiled sail (V), and the second section of length (21) attached to a second surface (S2) of the profiled sail (V), as well as the U-shaped connecting section (22), connecting them by extending the first section of length (20) and the second section of length (21) at the edge attack (BA) of the profiled sail, the two sections of length ending at the trailing edge (BE) of the sail by two ex- free terminals (23,24).

18. Together according to claim 17, said profiled sail (V) is carried by a mast (M) extending internally to the semi-rigid structures (2) of the cambering devices (1), in the inter-space between said first section of length (20) and said second section of length (21).

19. | Assembly according to claim 18, wherein the devices cambers (1) conform to claim 10, the system of spacer (30) including the first spacer (30), connecting between they the first section of length (20) and the second section of length (21), as well as the second spacer (31), connecting them together the first section of length (20) and second section of length (21), parallel to the said first spacer. (30) and in which said mast (M) extends internally to each semi-rigid structure (2) at level of the inter-space defined between the first spacer (30) and the second spacer (31) of the spacer system (3).

20. A sailing vehicle comprising an assembly according to one of the claims indications 17 to 19.

21. Wind turbine comprising an assembly according to any one of claims 17 to 19.