Sail propulsion element comprising a central inflatable cavity and first and second lateral inflatable cavities that inflate independently

Abstract

This sail propulsion element (6) comprises: - a mast (8); - a central inflatable sail (10) internally delimiting a central inflatable cavity; - a head (12); - a sail receptacle (14); - a first lateral inflatable sail (16) internally delimiting a first lateral inflatable cavity; and - a second lateral inflatable sail (18) internally delimiting a second lateral inflatable cavity. The first and second lateral inflatable cavities are arranged laterally on either side of the central inflatable cavity, the first and second lateral inflatable cavities being inflatable independently of each other and independently of the central inflatable cavity. Figure for the abbreviation: Fig 2

Description

Title of the invention: Sail propulsion element comprising a central inflatable cavity and independently inflatable first and second lateral inflatable cavities technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a wind-powered vehicle and is in the field of wind propulsion or hybrid wind propulsion.

[0002] In particular, the invention relates to a sail propulsion element. Previous techniques

[0003] Prior art is known a wind propulsion element intended to equip a wind-powered vehicle and described in document WO 2822 / 248812.

[0004] The sail propulsion element described in this document comprises a mast, an inflatable sail having a plurality of cells spaced by ribs made of a flexible material allowing air to pass through, at least one air duct disposed between the inside and outside of the inflatable sail, at least one means of injecting air into the inflatable sail, a headboard and a sail receptacle.

[0005] The inflatable sail described in document WO 2822 / 248812 has a profile which remains permanently symmetrical when inflated, regardless of the movement of the wind-powered vehicle, the orientation of the inflatable sail, and the direction and intensity of the wind.

[0006] Depending on the wind direction, a symmetrical inflatable sail does not generate the best propulsive force.

[0007] The invention aims to increase the propulsive force generated by a sail propulsion element equipped with an inflatable sail, in particular when the wind arrives from a direction forming an angle with the chord line of the inflatable sail, the chord line being the direction from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the inflatable sail. Description of the invention

[0008] The invention relates to a sail propulsion element comprising:

[0009] a mast;

[0010] an inflatable wing comprising a central inflatable sail internally delimiting a central inflatable cavity, and provided with various curves forming bulges, the inflatable wing comprising an upper part, a lower part, a leading edge and a trailing edge;

[0011] a headrest arranged on the upper part of the inflatable wing; and

[0012] a sail receptacle disposed on the lower part of the inflatable wing.

[0013] The inflatable wing further comprises:

[0014] a first lateral inflatable sail internally delimiting a first lateral inflatable cavity; and

[0015] a second inflatable lateral sail internally delimiting a second inflatable lateral cavity.

[0016] The first and second lateral inflatable cavities are arranged laterally at least partly on either side of the central inflatable cavity.

[0017] The first and second lateral inflatable cavities are inflatable independently of each other and independently of the central inflatable cavity.

[0018] The first and second lateral inflatable cavities, which are independently inflatable, allow an asymmetrical profile to be given to the sail propulsion element and improve its performance according to the direction and sense of the wind.

[0019] The term "the first and second lateral inflatable cavities are arranged laterally at least partly on either side of the central inflatable cavity" means that at least part of the first lateral inflatable cavity extends along at least part of the central inflatable cavity on a first lateral side of the inflatable wing and that at least part of the second lateral inflatable cavity extends along at least part of the central inflatable cavity on a second lateral side of the inflatable wing which is opposite the first lateral side with respect to the central inflatable cavity.

[0020] The leading edge is the front part of an airfoil. The leading edge contains the stagnation point where the flow of an incident fluid splits into two.

[0021] The trailing edge is the rear part of the aerodynamic profile considered in the direction of the fluid flow.

[0022] The headrest follows at least part of the upper contour of the inflatable sails.

[0023] The sail receptacle is suitable for receiving deflated inflatable sails. It can integrate other functions such as absorbing tension forces provided by the inflatable sails, housing actuators, sensors, or a control unit for the inflatable sails.

[0024] The mast can be telescopic or non-extendable.

[0025] When the mast is telescopic, it consists of different elements capable of sliding successively relative to each other to deploy or retract.

[0026] When the mast is telescopic, the head is fixed to the upper element of the telescopic mast and is able to maintain a degree of freedom in rotation around a longitudinal axis of the mast, the upper element of the mast being able to rotate around the longitudinal axis or the head being able to rotate around the mast.

[0027] When the mast is inextensible, the head is movable along the mast.

[0028] The telescopic or non-extendable mast may be free to rotate relative to said hull. Alternatively, the mast may be fixed, at least in rotation, relative to said hull.

[0029] The inflatable sails are attached to the headrest so as to go down or up at the same time as the headrest.

[0030] The head has sufficient rigidity to transmit various physical forces from the inflatable sails to the mast and to support the weight of the inflatable sails.

[0031] The control unit can be configured to control the angle of the inflatable sails relative to the wind.

[0032] The control unit may also be capable of controlling the raising and lowering of inflatable sails.

[0033] Advantageously, the central inflatable sail comprises at least one central canvas forming the central inflatable cavity.

[0034] The central inflatable sail may comprise two central sails connected to each other around their perimeter and forming the central inflatable cavity.

[0035] Advantageously, the first inflatable side sail comprises a first side sail extending between the trailing edge and the leading edge of said inflatable sail, the second inflatable side sail comprising a second side sail extending between the trailing edge and the leading edge of said inflatable sail.

[0036] According to a first conception, said central inflatable sail extends from the leading edge to the trailing edge of said inflatable wing

[0037] According to a second alternative design, said central inflatable sail extends from the leading edge to the trailing edge of said inflatable wing while remaining at a distance from said trailing edge, in particular said central inflatable sail extending from the leading edge to the trailing edge over a length between 50% and 80% of the wing length which is taken between the leading and trailing edges of said inflatable wing.

[0038] According to a first variant of the first and second designs, said first and second inflatable side sails extend from the leading edge to the trailing edge of said inflatable wing.

[0039] According to a second alternative variant of the first and second designs, said first and second inflatable side sails extend from the trailing edge to the leading edge of said inflatable wing while remaining at a distance from said leading edge, in particular said first and second inflatable side sails extending from said trailing edge to said leading edge over a length between 60% and 80% of the wing length.

[0040] Advantageously, according to the first variant, the first inflatable side sail comprises the first side sail extending from the trailing edge to the leading edge of said inflatable wing, the second inflatable side sail comprising the second side sail extending from the trailing edge to the leading edge of said inflatable wing, the ends of the first and second side sails which are located on the trailing edge side of said inflatable wing being fixed with respect to said trailing edge, the ends of the first and second side sails which are located on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing being joined to each other.

[0041] Advantageously, the joined ends of the first and second side panels which are located on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing are fixed with respect to said leading edge.

[0042] Alternatively, the joined ends of the first and second side panels which are located on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing are movable relative to said leading edge, in particular between at least a first lateral position in which the volume of the first lateral inflatable cavity is strictly greater than the volume of the second lateral inflatable cavity, and a second lateral position in which the volume of the first lateral inflatable cavity is strictly less than the volume of the second lateral inflatable cavity.

[0043] The joined ends of the first and second side canvases, which are movable relative to said leading edge, allow the second side canvas to be pressed against the central inflatable sail when the first side inflatable cavity is inflated and the second side inflatable cavity is deflated, and the first side canvas to be pressed against the central inflatable sail when the second side inflatable cavity is inflated and the first side inflatable cavity is deflated.

[0044] Advantageously, according to the second variant, the first inflatable side sail comprises the first side sail extending from the trailing edge towards the leading edge of said inflatable wing, the second inflatable side sail comprising the second side sail extending from the trailing edge towards the leading edge of said inflatable wing, the ends of the first and second side sails which are located on the trailing edge side of said inflatable wing being fixed with respect to said trailing edge, the ends of the first and second side sails which are located on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing are joined to the central inflatable sail respectively on a first and a second side of the inflatable wing.

[0045] According to a first particular design, the sail propulsion element comprises at least a first air injection inlet in the first lateral inflatable cavity formed on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing, and at less a second air injection port in the second lateral inflatable cavity formed on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing.

[0046] Said first and second air injection openings are adapted to allow air to enter the first and second lateral inflatable cavities respectively, depending on the direction and sense of the wind. Thus, the first and second lateral inflatable cavities are adapted to inflate independently of each other depending on the direction and sense of the wind.

[0047] Advantageously, the sail propulsion element comprises a plurality of first air injection openings in the first lateral inflatable cavity, each formed on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing, and a plurality of second air injection openings in the second lateral inflatable cavity, each formed on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing, said first and second air injection openings being arranged alternately along the longitudinal direction of the mast.

[0048] Said first and second air injection vents are adapted to allow air to enter the first and second lateral inflatable cavities respectively, depending on the wind direction and orientation. Said first and second air injection vents, alternating along the longitudinal direction of the mast, allow for a homogeneous injection of air along said longitudinal direction, depending on the wind direction and orientation.

[0049] Advantageously, said or each first air injection opening is formed on the surface of the first side panel, said or each second air injection opening being formed on the surface of the second side panel.

[0050] According to a first variant of the first particular design, the sail propulsion element comprises at least a first external conduit which extends said first air injection mouth towards the leading edge of said inflatable wing while remaining at a distance from said leading edge, and at least a second external conduit which extends said second air injection mouth towards the leading edge of said inflatable wing while remaining at a distance from said leading edge.

[0051] Each first and second external conduit remaining at a distance from said leading edge allows the injection of air respectively into the first and second lateral inflatable cavities when the wind is directed along the chord line of the inflatable sail from the leading edge.

[0052] Each first conduit which extends the first associated air injection mouth in the direction of said leading edge permits the injection of air into the first lateral inflatable cavity when the wind comes from the side of the second lateral inflatable sail, and prevents the injection of air into the first lateral inflatable cavity when the wind comes from the side of the first lateral inflatable sail.

[0053] Similarly, each second conduit which extends the second associated air injection mouth towards said leading edge allows air to be injected into the second lateral inflatable cavity when the wind is coming from the side of the first lateral inflatable sail, and prevents air from being injected into the second lateral inflatable cavity when the wind is coming from the side of the second lateral inflatable sail.

[0054] According to a second variant of the first particular design, the sail propulsion element comprises at least a first external conduit which extends said first air injection mouth towards the leading edge of said inflatable wing and beyond said leading edge, and at least a second external conduit which extends said second air injection mouth towards the leading edge of said inflatable wing and beyond said leading edge.

[0055] Unlike the first variant of the first particular design, each first and second external conduit going beyond said leading edge prevents the injection of air into the first and second lateral inflatable cavities when the wind is directed along the chord line of the inflatable sail from the leading edge.

[0056] Furthermore, a tangential wind to each first duct extending the first associated air injection opening towards and beyond said leading edge promotes the extraction of air from the first lateral inflatable cavity. Similarly, a tangential wind to each second duct extending the second associated air injection opening towards and beyond said leading edge promotes the extraction of air from the second lateral inflatable cavity.

[0057] According to one variant, the sail propulsion element further comprises at least one additional first lateral sail forming in the first inflatable lateral cavity a first lateral compartment in fluidic communication with said or each first air injection opening, and at least one additional second lateral sail forming in the second inflatable lateral cavity a second lateral compartment in fluidic communication with said or each second air injection opening.

[0058] Thus, the said first and second lateral compartments respectively arranged in the first and second lateral inflatable cavities are capable of inflating independently of each other.

[0059] According to one variant, the first inflatable side sail consists of the first side sail, the second inflatable side sail consists of the second side sail.

[0060] Thus, friction between the different fabrics is reduced to a minimum.

[0061] According to a second particular design, the sail propulsion element further comprises a first lateral air injection device in the first lateral inflatable cavity, and a second lateral air injection device in the second lateral inflatable cavity.

[0062] The sealing of the first and second inflatable side cavities can be achieved by assembling fabrics, in particular by using first and second waterproof side fabrics or a plurality of first and second side fabrics.

[0063] Optionally, the sail propulsion element further comprises a first internal air chamber housed in the first lateral inflatable cavity, the first lateral air injection device being capable of injecting air into the first internal air chamber, and further comprising a second internal air chamber housed in the second lateral inflatable cavity, the second lateral air injection device being capable of injecting air into the second internal air chamber.

[0064] Optionally, the sail propulsion element further comprises at least one first air scoop in the first lateral inflatable cavity which is formed in the wing receptacle on a first lateral side, and at least one second air scoop in the second lateral inflatable cavity which is formed in the wing receptacle on a second lateral side, said first air scoop being movable between a position for inflation of the first lateral inflatable cavity in which said first air scoop is open towards the leading edge of said inflatable wing and a position for deflation of the first lateral inflatable cavity in which said first air scoop is open towards the trailing edge of said inflatable wing,said second air scoop being movable between a position for inflating the second lateral inflatable cavity in which said second air scoop is open towards the leading edge of said inflatable wing and a position for deflating the second lateral inflatable cavity in which said second air scoop is open towards the trailing edge of said inflatable wing.

[0065] The first lateral air injection device may include a fan, in particular a reversible one. The second lateral air injection device may include a fan, in particular a reversible one.

[0066] Advantageously, the sail propulsion element includes a first pressure-sensing means arranged in the first lateral inflatable cavity, and a second pressure-sensing means arranged in the second lateral inflatable cavity.

[0067] The control unit may be capable of controlling the operation of the first and second lateral air injection devices according to signals from the first and second pressure detector means.

[0068] Advantageously, the sail propulsion element includes at least one means for detecting the direction and sense of the wind.

[0069] The control unit may be capable of controlling the operation of the first and second lateral air injection devices according to signals from said wind direction and sense detection means.

[0070] According to one variant, the sail propulsion element comprises a first plurality of wires connecting each of said permeable partitions to the first lateral fabric, and a second plurality of wires connecting each of said permeable partitions to the second lateral fabric, in particular the wires of the first plurality of wires and the wires of the second plurality of wires forming respectively a permeable partition of density less than or equal to 30 g.m2.

[0071] The first and second plurality of threads respectively allow the first and second side canvases to retain their streamlined and curved shape when the first and second side cavities are inflated, and allow the first and second side canvases to lie flat against the central inflatable sail with fewer creases when the first and second side cavities are deflated.

[0072] Preferably, the first inflatable lateral cavity is delimited by the first lateral canvas and by the central inflatable sail, the second inflatable lateral cavity being delimited by the second lateral canvas and by the central inflatable sail.

[0073] The present invention also relates to a wind-powered or hybrid-powered vehicle comprising a hull, at least one wind propulsion element as defined above, the mast of said wind propulsion element being fixed to the hull, the inflatable sail of said wind propulsion element being free to rotate. Brief description of the drawings

[0074] The present invention will be better understood upon study of the detailed description of embodiments, taken by way of non-limiting examples and illustrated by the accompanying drawings in which:

[0075] [Fig-1] is a front view of a wind-propelled vehicle according to a first example of the implementation of the invention;

[0076] [Fig.2], [Fig.3], [Fig.4] are cross-sectional views of [Fig.1] when the wind arrives along the rope line of the central inflatable cavity, from the side of the second lateral inflatable cavity and from the side of the first lateral inflatable cavity;

[0077] [Fig.5], [Fig.6], [Fig.7] are views corresponding to figures 2, 3 and 4 according to a second example of the realization of the invention;

[0078] [Fig.8] is a perspective representation of a sail propulsion element according to a third example of the realization of the invention;

[0079] [Fig.9] is a cross-sectional view of [Fig.8] when the wind arrives according rope line of the central inflatable cavity;

[0080] [Fig. 10], [Fig. 11] are views corresponding to figures 8 and 9 according to a fourth embodiment of the invention;

[0081] [Fig. 12] is a view corresponding to [Fig.9] according to a variant of the third embodiment of the invention;

[0082] [Fig. 13], [Fig. 14], [Fig. 15] are views corresponding to Figures 2, 3 and 4 according to a variant of the first embodiment of the invention; and

[0083] [Fig. 16] and [Fig. 17] are perspective representations of a sail propulsion element according to a fifth embodiment of the invention; and

[0084] [Fig. 18] illustrates a variant of the third, fourth and fifth embodiments of the invention. Detailed description

[0085] Fig. 1 illustrates a wind-powered vehicle 2, for example a sailboat or ship, comprising a hull 4 and a wind propulsion element 6.

[0086] The sail propulsion element 6 comprises a self-supporting mast 8 made integral to the hull 4 by a support (not shown), an inflatable wing equipped with a central inflatable sail 10, a head 12, and a sail receptacle 14. The inflatable wing is further equipped with a first lateral inflatable sail 16 and a second lateral inflatable sail 18. The central inflatable sail 10, and the first and second lateral inflatable sails 16, 18 of the inflatable wing form the sail area of ​​the sail propulsion element 6.

[0087] The inflatable wing comprises an upper part, a lower part, a leading edge and a trailing edge.

[0088] The central inflatable sail 10 internally delimits a central inflatable cavity. The central inflatable sail 10 here comprises two central sails 20 connected to each other around their perimeter so that the mast 8 extends longitudinally between the two central sails 20.

[0089] The central inflatable sail 10 extends from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the inflatable wing. More precisely, the two interconnected central sails 20 each extend from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the inflatable wing. The head 12 is located on the upper part of the inflatable wing, while the sail receptacle 14 is located on the lower part of the inflatable wing. The head 12 is supported by the mast 8. The head 12 is attached to the upper end of the mast 8. The sail receptacle 14 is attached to the support.

[0090] The wing receptacle 14 is fixed to the support. The head 12 is movable relative to the wing receptacle 14, which is fixed.

[0091] The mast 8 is telescopic and made up of different elements that slide successively along one another to extend or retract. The head 12 is fixed to the last element of the mast 8. Alternatively, the mast 8 could be fixed, with the head 12 then moving along the mast 8. In another alternative, it could also be possible to combine a telescopic mast 8 and a head 12 that slides along this telescopic mast 8.

[0092] The wing receptacle 14 extends from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the inflatable wing. The wing receptacle 14 is intended to receive all or part of the wing when it is deflated, and therefore the central inflatable wing 10 and the first and second lateral inflatable wings 16, 18 when they are deflated.

[0093] The first and second inflatable side sails 16, 18 extend here from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the inflatable wing.

[0094] More specifically, the first inflatable side sail 16 internally delimits a first inflatable side cavity disposed on a first lateral side of the central inflatable sail 10. The first inflatable side sail 16 includes a first lateral fabric 22 extending from the trailing edge to the leading edge of the inflatable wing.

[0095] Similarly, the second inflatable side sail 18 internally delimits a second inflatable side cavity disposed on a second lateral side of the central inflatable sail 10, the second lateral side being opposite the first lateral side with respect to the mast 8. The second inflatable side sail 18 comprises a second lateral fabric 24 extending from the trailing edge to the leading edge of the inflatable wing.

[0096] The first and second lateral inflatable cavities are inflatable independently of each other and independently of the central inflatable cavity.

[0097] The first inflatable lateral cavity is delimited by the first lateral canvas 22 and by the central inflatable sail 10, in particular by one of the two central canvases 20.

[0098] The second inflatable lateral cavity is delimited by the second lateral canvas 24 and by the central inflatable sail 10, in particular by the other of the two central canvases 20.

[0099] The ends of the first and second side panels 22, 24 which are located on the trailing edge side of the inflatable wing are fixed relative to the trailing edge, in particular these ends are sewn to the central panels 20.

[0100] The ends of the first and second side panels 22, 24 which are located on the leading edge side of the inflatable wing are joined, in particular sewn, to each other by a joining element 25, in particular a seam.

[0101] The sail of the wind propulsion element 6 is made free in rotation relative to the hull 4 of the wind-propelled vehicle 2 by any suitable means. In particular, the sail propulsion element 6 includes a control unit (not shown) capable of changing the orientation of the sail relative to the hull 4 of the sail-powered vehicle 2 in order to optimize or regulate the aerodynamic thrust generated by the sail.

[0102] Each of the two central webs 20 is, for example, made of a coated material, in particular a textile, that meets requirements for mechanical resistance, watertightness, and fire protection. The central webs 20 may not be protected against UV radiation when the first and second side webs 22, 24 block UV radiation.

[0103] Each of the first and second side panels 22, 24 is, for example, made of a coated material, in particular textile, enabling it to meet conditions of mechanical resistance, sealing, and protection against fire and UV radiation.

[0104] The two central sails 20, connected together, form a closed central inflatable cavity. The central inflatable sail 10 comprises a plurality of partitions 26 made of a flexible material, each extending within the central inflatable cavity from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the inflatable wing. The partitions 26 delimit a plurality of cells 28 within the central inflatable cavity, along the wingspan of the central inflatable sail 10. The partitions 26 are attached to the central inflatable sail 10, for example by sewing, welding, or gluing, and give the central inflatable sail 10 different curves forming bulges. The partitions 26 are made of a permeable material so as to allow air to circulate through the partition 26 in question.

[0105] The central inflatable sail 10 has a profile which remains permanently symmetrical when inflated, regardless of the movement of the wind-powered vehicle 2, the orientation of the central inflatable sail 10, and the direction and intensity of the wind.

[0106] With reference to figures 2 to 4, the first side panel 22 forms a first closed lateral inflatable cavity, the second side panel 24 forms a second closed lateral inflatable cavity.

[0107] The ends of the first and second side panels 22, 24 which are located on the leading edge side of the inflatable wing are fixed relative to the leading edge, in particular these ends are sewn to the central panels 20.

[0108] The sail propulsion element 6 further comprises a first internal air chamber 30 housed in the first lateral inflatable cavity and a second internal air chamber 32 housed in the second lateral inflatable cavity. The first and second internal air chambers 30, 32 are formed of a flexible, airtight material.

[0109] The sail propulsion element 6 includes a first lateral air injection device 34, in particular reversible, for example a reversible fan, mounted on the wing receptacle 14 and in fluidic communication with the first internal air chamber 30. The first lateral air injection device 34 is capable of injecting air into the first internal air chamber 30. When the first lateral air injection device 34 is reversible, it is capable of extracting air from the first internal air chamber 30.

[0110] The sail propulsion element 6 includes a second lateral air injection device 36, in particular reversible, for example a reversible fan, mounted on the sail receptacle 14 and in fluidic communication with the second internal air chamber 32. The second lateral air injection device 36 is capable of injecting air into the second internal air chamber 32. When the second lateral air injection device 36 is reversible, it is capable of extracting air from the second internal air chamber 32.

[0111] The sail propulsion element 6 further comprises at least one central air injection device (not shown), in particular reversible, for example a reversible fan, mounted on the sail receptacle 14 and in fluidic communication with the central inflatable cavity. The central air injection device is capable of injecting air into the central inflatable cavity. When the central air injection device is reversible, it is capable of extracting air from the central inflatable cavity.

[0112] The sail propulsion element 6 comprises at least a first lateral pressure sensing means (not shown) disposed in the first lateral inflatable cavity and capable of measuring the air pressure in the first lateral inflatable cavity, and a second lateral pressure sensing means (not shown) disposed in the second lateral inflatable cavity and capable of measuring the air pressure in the second lateral inflatable cavity.

[0113] The control unit is capable of controlling the operation of the first and second lateral air injection devices 34, 36 according to signals from the first and second lateral pressure-sensing means.

[0114] In Figures 2 to 4, the direction and sense of the wind are represented by an arrow.

[0115] When the wind arrives along the chord line of the central inflatable sail 10 From the leading edge of the inflatable wing, as illustrated in [Fig. 2], the first and second lateral air injection devices 34, 36 are controlled so that the first and second lateral inflatable cavities, in particular the first and second air chambers 30, 32, are inflated and the sail of the wind propulsion element 6 has a symmetrical profile. Alternatively, it is possible to control the first and second lateral air injection devices 34, 36 so that the first and second lateral inflatable cavities, in particular the first and second air chambers 30, 32, are deflated when the wind arrives along the chord line of The central inflatable sail 10. This alternative allows for a thinner sail profile for the sail propulsion element 6 in order to reduce sail drag when raising and lowering the sail propulsion element 6. Indeed, it is preferable to orient the sail so that the leading edge of the inflatable wing faces the wind when raising and lowering the sail propulsion element 6.

[0116] When the wind arrives from the second lateral side, as illustrated in [Fig. 3], the first lateral air injection device 34 is activated so that the first lateral inflatable cavity, in particular the first air chamber 30, is inflated, and the second lateral air injection device 36 is activated so that the second lateral inflatable cavity, in particular the second air chamber 32, is deflated. In this situation, the sail of the sail propulsion element 6 has an asymmetrical profile and the aerodynamic performance of the sail is improved.

[0117] When the wind arrives from the first lateral side, as illustrated in [Fig. 4], the first lateral air injection device 34 is activated so that the first lateral inflatable cavity, in particular the first air chamber 30, is deflated, and the second lateral air injection device 36 is activated so that the second lateral inflatable cavity, in particular the second air chamber 32, is inflated. In this situation, the sail of the sail propulsion element 6 has an asymmetrical profile and the aerodynamic performance of the sail is improved.

[0118] In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 2 to 4, the sail propulsion element 6 includes first and second internal air chambers 30, 32. Alternatively, the sealing of the first and second inflatable lateral cavities can be achieved by assembling fabrics, in particular by using first and second waterproof side canvases 22, 24 or a plurality of first and second side canvases 22, 24.

[0119] The second embodiment illustrated in Figures 5 to 7 differs from the first embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 4 in that the joined ends of the first and second side panels 22, 24 which are located on the leading edge side of the inflatable wing are movable relative to the leading edge of the inflatable wing.

[0120] When the wind arrives along the chord line of the central inflatable sail 10 from the leading edge, as illustrated in [Fig. 5], the connecting element 25 is in a central position in contact with the leading edge of the inflatable wing. In the central position, the volume of the first internal air chamber 30 is equal to the volume of the second internal air chamber 32.

[0121] When the wind arrives from the second lateral side, as illustrated in [Fig. 6], the connecting element 25 is in a first lateral position offset towards the first lateral side relative to the central position of the connecting element 25. In the first lateral position of the connecting element 25, the volume of the first The internal air chamber 30 is strictly greater than the volume of the second internal air chamber 32. The connecting element 25 being offset towards the first lateral side relative to the central position of the connecting element 25, the second lateral canvas 24 is pressed more firmly against the central inflatable cavity 10 than in the first embodiment.

[0122] When the wind arrives from the first lateral side, as illustrated in [Fig.7], the connecting element 25 is in a second lateral position offset towards the second lateral side relative to the central position of the connecting element 25. In the second lateral position of the connecting element 25, the volume of the first internal air chamber 30 is strictly less than the volume of the second internal air chamber 32. Since the connecting element 25 is offset towards the second lateral side relative to the central position of the connecting element 25, the first lateral fabric 22 is pressed more firmly against the central inflatable cavity 10 than in the first embodiment.

[0123] The third embodiment illustrated in Figures 8 and 9 differs from the first embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 4 in that the sail propulsion element 6 is devoid of the first and second air chambers, the first and second lateral air injection devices and in that the first and second lateral inflatable cavities are open to the outside of the sail propulsion element 6.

[0124] More specifically, the sail propulsion element 6 comprises a plurality of first air injection openings 38 in the first inflatable lateral cavity. Each first air injection opening 38 is formed on the leading edge side of the inflatable wing and on the surface of the first lateral fabric 22.

[0125] The sail propulsion element 6 also includes a plurality of second air injection inlets 40 in the second inflatable lateral cavity. Each second air injection inlet 40 is formed on the leading edge side of the inflatable wing and on the surface of the second lateral canopy 24.

[0126] The first and second air injection outlets 38, 40 are arranged alternately along the longitudinal direction of the mast 8.

[0127] The sail propulsion element 6 further comprises an additional first lateral sail 42 which forms a first lateral compartment in the first inflatable lateral cavity. Each first air injection port 38 is in fluidic communication with the first lateral compartment.

[0128] The sail propulsion element 6 further comprises a second additional lateral sail 44 which forms a second lateral compartment within the second inflatable lateral cavity. Each second air injection port 40 is in fluidic communication with the second lateral compartment.

[0129] The sail propulsion element 6 further comprises a plurality of first external conduits 46. Each first external conduit 46 extends a first air injection mouth 38 towards the leading edge of the inflatable wing while remaining at a distance from the leading edge.

[0130] The sail propulsion element 6 further comprises a plurality of second external conduits 48. Each second external conduit 48 extends a second air injection outlet 40 towards the leading edge of the inflatable wing while remaining at a distance from the leading edge.

[0131] When the wind arrives along the chord line of the central inflatable sail 10 from the leading edge, it simultaneously enters the first and second external conduits 46, 48, and is directed through the first and second air injection openings 38, 40 so as to inflate the first and second lateral compartments. Thus, the first and second lateral inflatable cavities are inflated and the sail of the wind propulsion element 6 has a symmetrical profile.

[0132] When the wind arrives from the second lateral side, it simultaneously enters the first external ducts 46 and is directed through the first air injection openings 38 so as to inflate the first lateral compartment. In this situation, the sail of the wind propulsion element 6 has an asymmetrical profile and the aerodynamic performance of the sail is improved.

[0133] When the wind arrives from the first lateral side, it simultaneously enters the second external ducts 48 and is directed through the second air injection outlets 40 so as to inflate the second lateral compartment. In this situation, the sail of the wind propulsion element 6 has an asymmetrical profile and the aerodynamic performance of the sail is improved.

[0134] The fourth embodiment illustrated in Figures 10 and 11 differs from the third embodiment illustrated in Figures 8 and 10 in that each first external duct 46 extends from a first air injection port 38 towards the leading edge of the inflatable wing and beyond the leading edge. Similarly, each second external duct 48 extends from a second air injection port 40 towards the leading edge of the inflatable wing and beyond the leading edge.

[0135] When the wind arrives along the chord line of the central inflatable sail 10 from the leading edge, it does not enter the first and second external conduits 46, 48, and the first and second lateral compartments are deflated. Thus, the first and second lateral inflatable cavities are deflated, and the sail of the wind propulsion element 6 has a symmetrical profile. This alternative allows for a thinner profile of the sail of the wind propulsion element 6 in order to to reduce the aerodynamic drag of the sail during the raising and lowering of the sail propulsion element 6.

[0136] When the wind arrives from the second lateral side, it simultaneously enters the first external ducts 46 and is directed through the first air injection vents 38 so as to inflate the first lateral compartment. The wind is also directed along the sail tangentially to the second external ducts 48 so as to expel air from the second lateral compartment. In this situation, the sail of the wind propulsion element 6 has an asymmetrical profile and the aerodynamic performance of the sail is improved.

[0137] When the wind arrives from the first lateral side, it simultaneously enters the second external ducts 48 and is directed through the second air injection vents 40 so as to inflate the second lateral compartment. The wind is also directed along the sail tangentially to the first external ducts 46 so as to expel the air from the first lateral compartment. In this situation, the sail of the wind propulsion element 6 has an asymmetrical profile and the aerodynamic performance of the sail is improved.

[0138] Fig. 12 is a view of a variant of the third embodiment illustrated in figures 8 and 9.

[0139] In this embodiment, the central inflatable sail 10 extends from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the inflatable wing, remaining at a distance from the trailing edge. More precisely, the central inflatable sail 10 extends from the leading edge to the trailing edge over a length between 50% and 80% of the wing length, which is measured between the leading and trailing edges of the inflatable wing. In particular, the two interconnected central sails 20 each extend from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the inflatable wing, remaining at a distance from the trailing edge, specifically over a length between 50% and 80% of the wing length.

[0140] The first and second side panels 22, 24 are in contact with each other along a portion of the inflatable wing extending from the trailing edge to the leading edge of the inflatable wing, specifically over a length between 20% and 50% of the wing's length. The first and second side panels 22, 24 are attached to each other, for example by sewing, welding, or gluing, along this portion of the inflatable wing.

[0141] The trailing edge of the inflatable wing is fully supported by the first and second side panels 22, 24.

[0142] The embodiment variant illustrated in [Fig. 12] is compatible with the fourth embodiment example illustrated in Figures 10 and 11.

[0143] Similarly, Figures 13 to 15 illustrate a variant of the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 4 in which the central inflatable sail 10 extends from the leading edge towards the trailing edge of the inflatable wing while remaining at a distance from the trailing edge.

[0144] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first and second inflatable side sails 16, 18 extend from the trailing edge to the leading edge of the inflatable wing while remaining at a distance from the leading edge. More precisely, the first and second inflatable side sails 16, 18 extend from the trailing edge to the leading edge over a length of between 60% and 80% of the wing length.

[0145] The end of the first side panel 22, which is located on the leading edge side of the inflatable wing, is joined, in particular sewn, to the central inflatable sail on the first side of the inflatable wing. Similarly, the end of the second side panel 24, which is located on the leading edge side of the inflatable wing, is joined, in particular sewn, to the central inflatable sail on the second side of the inflatable wing.

[0146] The fifth embodiment illustrated in Figures 16 and 17 differs from the variant embodiment illustrated in Figures 13 to 15 in that the sail propulsion element 6 is devoid of the first and second air chambers, the first and second lateral air injection devices and in that the first and second lateral inflatable cavities are open to the outside of the sail propulsion element 6.

[0147] The sail propulsion element 6 further includes a first air scoop in the first inflatable lateral cavity which is formed in the sail receptacle 14 on the first lateral side, and a second air scoop 50 in the second inflatable lateral cavity which is formed in the sail receptacle 14 on the second lateral side.

[0148] The first air scoop is movable between a position for inflating the first lateral inflatable cavity in which the first air scoop is open towards the leading edge of the inflatable wing and a position for deflating the first lateral inflatable cavity in which the first air scoop is open towards the trailing edge of the inflatable wing.

[0149] Similarly, the second air scoop 50 is movable between a position for inflating the second lateral inflatable cavity in which the second air scoop 50 is open towards the leading edge of the inflatable wing and a position for deflating the second lateral inflatable cavity in which the second air scoop 50 is open towards the trailing edge of the inflatable wing.

[0150] The deflation of the first or second lateral inflatable cavity is done with a Venturi effect suction by means of the first or second air scoop 50 in its position for deflation.

[0151] The first and second air scoops 50 are parts, in particular rigid, piloted, in particular by the control unit, at least between the positions for inflation and deflation.

[0152] [Fig. 18] illustrates a variant of the third, fourth, and fifth embodiments, in which the sail propulsion element 6 is devoid of the first and second additional side sails, so that the first inflatable side sail 16 consists of the first side sail 22 and so that the second inflatable side sail 18 consists of the second side sail 24. This variant is compatible with the variant of the third and fourth embodiments illustrated in [Fig. 12].

[0153] In this embodiment, the sail propulsion element 6 comprises a first plurality of wires 52 connecting each permeable partition 26 of the central inflatable sail 10 to the first side sail 22 and a second plurality of wires 54 connecting each permeable partition 26 to the second side sail 24. The wires 52 of the first plurality of wires 52 do not cross in the first side inflatable cavity when the first side inflatable cavity is inflated. The wires 54 of the second plurality of wires 54 do not cross in the second side inflatable cavity when the second side inflatable cavity is inflated. The wires 52 of the first plurality of wires 52 and the wires 54 of the second plurality of wires 54 respectively form a permeable partition with a density less than or equal to 30 g.m2.

Claims

Demands

1. A wind propulsion element (6) comprising: - a mast (8); - an inflatable wing having a central inflatable sail (10) internally delimiting a central inflatable cavity and having various curves forming bulges, the inflatable wing having an upper part, a lower part, a leading edge and a trailing edge; - a head (12) disposed on the upper part of the inflatable wing; and - a sail receptacle (14) disposed on the lower part of the inflatable wing; characterized in that the inflatable wing further comprises: - a first lateral inflatable sail (16) internally delimiting a first lateral inflatable cavity; and - a second lateral inflatable sail (18) internally delimiting a second lateral inflatable cavity;in which the first and second lateral inflatable cavities are arranged laterally at least partly on either side of the central inflatable cavity, the first and second lateral inflatable cavities being inflatable independently of each other and independently of the central inflatable cavity.

2. Sail propulsion element (6) according to claim 1, wherein said central inflatable sail (10) extends from the leading edge to the trailing edge of said inflatable wing

3. Sail propulsion element (6) according to claim 1, wherein said central inflatable sail (10) extends from the leading edge to the trailing edge of said inflatable wing while remaining at a distance from said trailing edge, in particular said central inflatable sail (10) extending from the leading edge to the trailing edge over a length between 50% and 80% of the wing length which is taken between the leading and trailing edges of said inflatable wing.

4. Sail propulsion element (6) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said first and second inflatable side sails (16, 18) extend from the leading edge to the trailing edge of said inflatable wing.

5. Sail propulsion element (6) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said first and second inflatable side sails (16, 18) extend from the trailing edge to the leading edge of said inflatable wing while remaining at a distance from said leading edge, in particular said first and second inflatable side sails (16, 18) extending from said trailing edge to said leading edge over a length between 60% and 80% of the wing length.

6. Sail propulsion element (6) according to claim 4, wherein the first inflatable side sail (16) comprises a first side sail (22) extending from the trailing edge to the leading edge of said inflatable wing, the second inflatable side sail (18) comprising a second side sail (24) extending from the trailing edge to the leading edge of said inflatable wing, the ends of the first and second side sails (22, 24) which are located on the trailing edge side of said inflatable wing being fixed with respect to said trailing edge, the ends of the first and second side sails (22, 24) which are located on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing being joined to each other.

7. Sail propulsion element (6) according to claim 6, wherein the joined ends of the first and second side sails (22, 24) which are located on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing are fixed relative to said leading edge.

8. Sail propulsion element according to claim 6, wherein the joined ends of the first and second side sails (22, 24) which are located on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing are movable relative to said leading edge, in particular between at least a first lateral position in which the volume of the first lateral inflatable cavity is strictly greater than the volume of the second lateral inflatable cavity, and a second lateral position in which the volume of the first lateral inflatable cavity is strictly less than the volume of the second lateral inflatable cavity.

9. Sail propulsion element (6) according to claim 5, wherein the first inflatable side sail (16) comprises a first side sail (22) extending from the trailing edge towards the leading edge of said inflatable wing, the second inflatable side sail (18) comprising a second side sail (24) extending from the trailing edge towards the leading edge of said inflatable wing, the ends of the first and second side sails (22, 24) which are located on the trailing edge side of said inflatable wing being fixed with respect to said trailing edge, the ends of the first and second side sails (22, 24) which are located on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing are joined to the central inflatable sail respectively on a first and a second side of the inflatable wing.

10. Sail propulsion element (6) according to claim 4 or according to claim 6 or 7, comprising at least a first air injection port (38) in the first lateral inflatable cavity formed on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing, and at least a second air injection port (40) in the second lateral inflatable cavity formed on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing.

11. Sail propulsion element according to claim 10, comprising a plurality of first air injection openings (38) in the first lateral inflatable cavity, each formed on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing, and a plurality of second air injection openings (40) in the second lateral inflatable cavity, each formed on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing, said first and second air injection openings (38, 40) being arranged alternately along the longitudinal direction of the mast (8).

12. Sail propulsion element according to claim 10 or 11 which depends at least on claim 6, wherein said or each first air injection mouth (38) is formed on the surface of the first side sail (22), said or each second air injection mouth (40) being formed on the surface of the second side sail (24).

13. A sail propulsion element according to any one of claims 10 to 12, comprising at least a first external duct (46) extending said first air injection opening (38) towards the leading edge of said inflatable wing while remaining at a distance from said leading edge, and at least a second external duct (48) extending said second air injection opening (40) in the direction of the leading edge of said inflatable wing while remaining at a distance from said leading edge.

14. Sail propulsion element according to any one of claims 10 to 12, comprising at least a first external conduit (46) extending said first air injection mouth (38) towards the leading edge of said inflatable wing and beyond said leading edge, and at least a second external conduit (48) extending said second air injection mouth (40) towards the leading edge of said inflatable wing and beyond said leading edge.

15. Sail propulsion element according to any one of claims 10 to 14 which depends at least on claim 6, further comprising at least one additional first side sail (42) forming in the first inflatable side cavity a first side compartment in fluidic communication with said or each first air injection mouth (38), and at least one additional second side sail (44) forming in the second inflatable side cavity a second side compartment in fluidic communication with said or each second air injection mouth (40).

16. Sail propulsion element according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising a first lateral air injection device (34) in the first lateral inflatable cavity, and a second lateral air injection device (36) in the second lateral inflatable cavity.

17. Sail propulsion element according to claim 16, further comprising a first internal air chamber (30) housed in the first lateral inflatable cavity, the first lateral air injection device (34) being capable of injecting air into the first internal air chamber (30), and further comprising a second internal air chamber (32) housed in the second lateral inflatable cavity, the second lateral air injection device (36) being capable of injecting air into the second internal air chamber (32).

18. Sail propulsion element (6) according to claim 5 or 9, comprising at least one first air scoop in the first lateral inflatable cavity formed in the sail receptacle (14) on a first lateral side, and at least one second air scoop (50) in the second lateral inflatable cavity formed

19.

20.

21. wing receptacle (14) on a second lateral side, said first air scoop being movable between a position for inflating the first lateral inflatable cavity in which said first air scoop is open towards the leading edge of said inflatable wing and a position for deflating the first lateral inflatable cavity in which said first air scoop is open towards the trailing edge of said inflatable wing, said second air scoop (50) being movable between a position for inflating the second lateral inflatable cavity in which said second air scoop (50) is open towards the leading edge of said inflatable wing and a position for deflating the second lateral inflatable cavity in which said second air scoop (50) is open towards the trailing edge of said inflatable wing. A sail propulsion element according to any one of claims 6 to 9, or according to any one of claims 10 to 14 which depends at least on claim 6, wherein the central inflatable sail (10) comprises a plurality of cells (28), each extending within said central inflatable cavity between the leading edge and the trailing edge of said inflatable wing, said cells (28) being delimited by permeable partitions (26), the sail propulsion element (6) comprising a first plurality of threads (52) connecting each of said permeable partitions (26) to the first side sail (22), and a second plurality of threads (54) connecting each of said permeable partitions (26) to the second side sail (24), in particular the threads (52) of the first plurality of threads (52) and the threads (54) of the second plurality of threads (54) forming respectively a permeable partition of density less than or equal to 30 g.m2. Sail propulsion element (6) according to any one of claims 6 to 9, or according to any one of claims 10 to 19 which depends at least on claim 6 or 9, wherein the first inflatable lateral cavity is delimited by the first lateral canvas (22) and by the central inflatable sail (10), the second inflatable lateral cavity being delimited by the second lateral canvas (24) and by the central inflatable sail (10). A wind-powered or hybrid-powered vehicle (2) comprising a hull (4), at least one wind propulsion element (6) according to any one of claims 1 to 20, the mast (8) of said wind propulsion element (6) being integral with the hull (4), the inflatable sail of said sail propulsion element (6) being free to rotate.

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