Wingsail structure for wind-assisted propulsion of ships

Abstract

The present invention relates to a wingsail structure (100) for a wind-assisted propulsion device (10) of a vessel (1) that can be stored in a small space. The wingsail structure (100) includes a rigid or semi-rigid main wingsail (110), a wingsail frame (101) including a flap (120) having an airfoil shape, and at least one upper connecting member (130) and a lower connecting member (140) connecting the main wingsail and the flap. The wingsail structure further includes a base part (20) arranged to be fixed to a body (3) of the vessel (1), and the wingsail frame is rotatable relative to the base part. The upper connecting member and the lower connecting member are configured to move the main wingsail and the flap to a first deployed standing position (I) and a second folded standing position (IIa, IIb). The wingsail structure further comprises a tilting device configured to move the wingsail frame (101) from the second folded and erected position (IIa; IIb) to a third tilted position (IIIa; IIIb).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a wingsail structure for a wind assisted propulsion device for a vessel, as well as a method of operating a wind assisted propulsion device as defined in the accompanying claims. [Background technology]

[0002] Sails have long been known as a means of ship propulsion. Traditionally, flexible sails have been attached to masts and used wind power to propel the ship. Modern commercial ships typically use fossil fuels and combustion engines to propel the ship. To reduce the overall consumption of fossil fuels, the use of wind propulsion has been proposed. For this purpose, rigid sails may be used. Power output is related to a number of interrelated factors, but wing area and other geometric aerodynamic characteristics are the primary performance indicators. The combination of the main wing and the flap allows for a geometrical setup that can generate a large propulsive force relative to the size of the wing compared to a wing without a flap. By adjusting the camber formed by the main wingsail and the flap, highly efficient wingsail devices and structures can be obtained that can generate a large propulsive force relative to the absolute size. When aerodynamic propulsion from the wingsail is undesirable or when propulsion needs to be limited, the stability, safety, and maneuverability of the vessel must be considered. This adds complexity and challenges to the use of rigid wingsails as a propulsion device for vessels. In addition to this, vessel performance is related to the strength and direction of the prevailing wind. For example, the statistical distribution of wind strengths shows that most of the time, wind speeds are fairly moderate. Therefore, the characteristics of the wing must be configured to allow the wingsail to take advantage of low wind speeds, while at the same time safely dealing with the more rare high wind speeds.

[0003] The use of rigid sails has been discussed in the prior art. For example, US Pat. No. 10,906,620 discloses a reefable double airfoil with shaped members for the front and rear flaps that are traversed by the foremast and can rotate about an axis defined thereby. In one variant, the flaps are constructed as rigid boxes nested telescopically in series. US Pat. No. 10,906,620 also discloses, as a variant, a double flap sail construction in which each flap is made by telescopically overlapping a series of generally rigid box-shaped members. However, telescopic nesting can lead to wear of the boxes, which can result in problems with the fit of the boxes when nesting them. If the boxes are damaged, it can be difficult to furl the sails, which can result in the structure being subjected to wind forces when propulsion by the wingsail is not desired.

[0004] Rigid sails are known, for example, from US Patent No. 4,561,374, which discloses a rigid sail assembly structure including a rigid mainsail section and a rigid jibsail section, both having complementary airfoil section configurations and rotatably displaceable as a unit through 360 degrees about the centerline of the vessel, and the jibsail section is independently arcuately displaceable within a range of angles relative to the mainsail section. However, this structure can be subject to wind forces when the vessel is at anchor or when propulsion by the wingsail is undesirable.

[0005] Another example of a rigid sail is shown in WO 2004 / 024556, which discloses an articulated rigid sail intended to ensure wind propulsion of a water or land vehicle. The rigid sail consists of a mast to which several modules are attached at vertical intervals and to which a rigid shell forming the sail is fixed. Each module, consisting of two articulated sections, allows the sail profile to be curved. However, this sail creates problems when the vessel is at anchor. The surface of the sail that allows the vessel to move forward while sailing continues to be subjected to wind forces when the vessel is at anchor, which can have adverse effects on the vessel.

[0006] Considering the known solutions, there is therefore a need for a sail structure that can be placed in a neutral, non-propulsive position in a robust and space-saving manner when propulsion is not desired, for example when the vessel is at anchor. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Pat. No. 1,090,620 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Pat. No. 4,561,374 [Patent Document 3] International Publication No. 2004 / 024556 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] Taking into account the drawbacks and limitations of the prior art solutions, it is an object of the present invention to provide a marine vessel with a wind-assisted propulsion arrangement which at least partially solves the problems of known solutions with regard to positioning the sail structure in a neutral, non-propulsion position in a robust and space-saving manner when propulsion is not desired.

[0009] However, storing large rigid wing structures in a small space has proven to be a challenge, as rigid sails cannot be retracted and telescopic solutions may not be strong enough in harsh weather conditions. It has therefore been recognised that there is a need for efficient and robust storage of rigid wingsails in a small space. It is therefore a further object of the present invention to enable storage of large rigid wing structures in a small space.

[0010] The above mentioned objects are achieved by the present invention as defined in the attached independent claims. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] According to a first aspect of the invention, the invention relates to a wingsail structure for a wind-assisted propulsion device of a vessel, comprising a wingsail frame. The wingsail frame comprises a main wingsail, a flap, and at least one upper connecting member and at least one lower connecting member connecting the main wingsail and the flap. The main wingsail is rigid or semi-rigid and has an airfoil shape with a leading edge, a trailing edge, an upper end, a lower end, and a sidewall extending therebetween. The flap is also a rigid or semi-rigid flap and has an airfoil shape with a leading edge, a trailing edge, an upper end, a lower end, and a sidewall extending therebetween. The flap may be smaller than the main wingsail. The wingsail structure further comprises a base arranged to be fixed to the vessel body. The base is associated with the wingsail frame, and the wingsail frame is rotatable relative to the base via a first vertical axis of rotation. The upper and lower connecting members are configured to move the main wingsail and / or flaps to a first, deployed standing position and to move the main wingsail and / or flaps toward each other to a second, folded standing position. The wingsail structure further includes a tilting device configured to move the wingsail frame from the second, folded standing position to a third, tilted position relative to the base.

[0012] The flaps and / or main wingsail can be in a folded position before tilting the wingsail frame, allowing for space-saving storage.

[0013] According to one aspect, the upper and lower connecting members are configured to provide a second axis of rotation for rotating the flap relative to the upper and lower connecting members. The upper and lower connecting members may be further configured to provide a third axis of rotation for rotating the main wingsail relative to the upper and lower connecting members. This may further improve the camber adjustment provided by the wingsail frame.

[0014] The upper and lower connecting members are connected to the upper and lower ends of the corresponding main wingsails, respectively, and the flaps and the lower connecting members are configured to provide a first axis of rotation for rotating the wingsail frame relative to the base, such that when the connecting members rotate relative to the base, the entire wingsail frame can rotate.

[0015] According to a further aspect, the upper and lower connecting members are configured to provide a fourth axis of rotation associated with the main wingsail for rotating the flap relative to the main wingsail. In this way, the flap can also rotate when pointing in the same direction as the main wingsail, thereby moving to the side of the main wingsail, whereby means are provided configured to move the flap to point in the same direction as the main wingsail or in the opposite direction. Thus, the lateral extent of the folded wingsail frame can be further reduced compared to the unfolded wingsail frame, thereby further limiting the space required for the wingsail frame when in the tilted or stowed position.

[0016] The upper and lower linking members may be connected to the upper and lower ends of the corresponding main wingsail and flaps, respectively, which may allow for easy access to, for example, react to the linking members.

[0017] The upper and lower linking members may be connected at locations spaced from their respective upper and lower ends such that they are directly connected to the respective main wingsail and flaps.

[0018] According to one embodiment, in the third inclined horizontal stowed position, the wingsail frame is arranged in a horizontal position with the side walls extending between the leading and trailing edges of the respective wings and flaps facing the body of the vessel, thus providing a robust stowed position.

[0019] According to another aspect, in the third inclined vertical stowed position, the wingsail frame is positioned in a vertical position with the leading or trailing edge of the main wingsail facing the body of the vessel and the trailing or leading edge of the flaps facing the body of the vessel.

[0020] The main wingsail and the flap may each be composed of one or more semi-rigid or rigid modules removably connected to each other to form an airfoil-shaped integral main wingsail or flap. The modular concept thus allows, for example, the wingsail frame to be assembled close to or on board the vessel to which it is to be attached.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the invention also relates to a wingsail frame including a main wingsail, a flap, and at least one upper connecting member and at least one lower connecting member connecting the main wingsail and the flap. The main wingsail is rigid or semi-rigid and has an aerofoil shape with a leading edge, a trailing edge, an upper end, a lower end, and sidewalls extending therebetween. The flap is also a rigid or semi-rigid flap and has an aerofoil shape with a leading edge, a trailing edge, an upper end, a lower end, and sidewalls extending therebetween. The flap may be smaller than the main wingsail. The upper connecting member and the lower connecting member are configured to bring the main wingsail and / or the flap to a first deployed standing position and to bring the main wingsail and / or the flap towards each other to a second folded standing position. The upper and lower connecting means are further configured to provide a second axis of rotation for rotating the flap relative to the upper and lower connecting members, and a third axis of rotation for rotating the main wingsail relative to the upper and lower connecting members. Furthermore, the upper and lower connecting members are connected to the upper and lower ends of the corresponding main wingsail, respectively, and the flap and lower connecting members are configured to provide a first axis of rotation for rotating the wingsail frame relative to the base. The flaps and / or the main wingsail can be in a folded position, which allows for space-saving storage and more flexible camber adjustment by the wingsail frame. The present invention further relates to a wingsail structure including a wingsail frame and a base connected to the body of the vessel.

[0022] According to a further embodiment, the invention also relates to a further wingsail frame comprising a main wingsail, a flap, and at least one upper connecting member and at least one lower connecting member connecting the main wingsail and the flap. The main wingsail is rigid or semi-rigid and has an airfoil shape with a leading edge, a trailing edge, an upper end, a lower end and side walls extending therebetween. The flap is also a rigid or semi-rigid flap and has an airfoil shape with a leading edge, a trailing edge, an upper end, a lower end and side walls extending therebetween. The flap may be smaller than the main wingsail. The upper connecting member and the lower connecting member are configured to bring the main wingsail and / or the flap to a first deployed standing position and to bring the main wingsail and / or the flap towards each other to a second folded standing position. The upper and lower connecting members are further configured to provide a fourth axis of rotation associated with the main wingsail for rotating the flap relative to the main wingsail. In this way, the flap can rotate even when pointing in the same direction as the main wingsail, thereby moving to the side of the main wingsail, thereby providing a means configured to move the flap to point in the same direction as the main wingsail or in the opposite direction. The present invention further relates to a wingsail structure including a wingsail frame and a foundation connected to the body of the vessel.

[0023] Furthermore, the invention relates to a wind-assisted propulsion device including at least one wingsail structure as described above, as well as to a watercraft including a wind-assisted propulsion device.

[0024] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for operating at least one wingsail structure as described above in a wind-assisted propulsion device, comprising: - controlling the rotation angle of the wingsail frame, the main wingsail, and / or the flaps in a first upright thrust position to provide camber; - folding the flaps toward the main wingsail to form a second folded upright position; - tilting the wingsail frame toward a body of the vessel to form a third tilted position; The present invention relates to a method for producing a semiconductor device comprising the steps of: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0025] Further features and advantages of the present invention will be explained with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0026] [Figure 1a] 1 shows a perspective view of a vessel equipped with a wind-assisted propulsion device; [Figure 1b] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a wingsail structure included in a wind-assisted propulsion device, shown in a deployed, erected, propulsive position (I). [Figure 2a] FIG. 1b shows the embodiment of FIG. 1b in a top view in the deployed, standing, propelled position (I). [Figure 2b] FIG. 2b shows the embodiment of FIG. 2a in a top view in a folded upright position (IIa). [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a vessel equipped with a wingsail arrangement of a wind-assisted propulsion device in a folded upright position (IIa). [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the wingsail structure of the wind-assisted propulsion device folded and tilted horizontally. [Figure 5a] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the wingsail structure of the wind-assisted propulsion device folded and tilted to a vertical position. [Figure 5b] The wingsail structure of Figure 5a is shown in more detail. [Figure 5c] FIG. 5b is a bottom view of the wingsail structure of FIG. 5a. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a wingsail structure included in a wind-assisted propulsion device, shown in a deployed propulsion position (I). [Figure 7a] FIG. 7 is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 6. [Figure 7b] FIG. 7 shows the embodiment of FIG. 6 viewed from above in a folded upright position (IIa). [Figure 7c] FIG. 7 shows the embodiment of FIG. 6 in a folded upright position (IIb) viewed from above. [Figure 8a] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a wingsail structure shown in a deployed, erected and propelled position (I). [Figure 8b] FIG. 8b shows the embodiment of FIG. 8a viewed from above. [Figure 8c] FIG. 8b shows the embodiment of FIG. 8a in a top view in a folded upright position (IIa). [Figure 9] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a vessel equipped with the wingsail structure of the wind-assisted propulsion device of FIG. 6, shown in a folded and erected position (IIa). [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the wingsail structure of the wind-assisted propulsion device in a folded and tilted horizontal position. [Figure 11a] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the wingsail structure of the wind-assisted propulsion device folded and tilted to a vertical position. [Figure 11b] The wingsail structure of Figure 11a is shown in more detail. [Figure 11c] FIG. 11a is a bottom view of the wingsail structure. [Figure 12] 1 shows a schematic diagram of the tilting and rotating devices of a wingsail frame. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0027] To harness the wind for ship propulsion, wingsails are formed so that, by themselves or together with the ship's engines, they can generate sufficient thrust to overcome the ship's resistance. In this application, a wingsail is generally defined as a rigid or semi-rigid structure, similar to an aircraft wing, that can be fixed vertically to a ship to provide propulsion by the action of the wind. Such rigid wingsails must be secured to provide safety when they cannot be used, for example, in bad weather, due to height restrictions on the selected route, during cargo operations, etc.

[0028] According to the present invention, a double wingsail configuration (hereinafter referred to as wingsail frame) is provided, which includes a main wingsail and a flap. By folding the flap over the main wingsail, a more compact wingsail position can be obtained. At the same time, in use, the flap can be rotated along one or more vertical rotation axes relative to the main wingsail, providing a camber that provides a propulsive force. By providing a flap that can be rotated relative to the main wingsail, the camber formed by the main wingsail and the flap can be adjusted to adjust the amount of force generated. Since the flap can be folded in the direction of the main wingsail, the projected area of ​​the main wingsail frame can be reduced, and the space required for the main wingsail frame on the ship is also reduced. When the main wingsail and the flap are folded, the force generated is also reduced. In this way, a minimum power configuration can be achieved in desirable conditions, which can be important for the safety, structural integrity, and maneuverability of the ship.

[0029] To prevent propulsion by the wingsail, the wingsail frame may be tilted horizontally towards the deck to a tilted position. By "tilted" position is meant a position in which the wingsail frame may be tilted towards a horizontal position and / or towards the deck of the vessel or a support on the deck. The wingsail frame may be stowed in this position, which is also referred to herein as the stowed position. In the tilted position, when the main wingsail and flaps are in the folded position, space on the vessel deck may be saved compared to when the main wingsail and flaps are in the unfolded position. This is also shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0030] To provide the tilted position, the wingsail frame is tilted with respect to a horizontal axis from a vertical standing position towards a horizontal position. The wingsail frame has a longitudinal axis that extends vertically with respect to the deck of the vessel when the wingsail frame is in the standing position. The wingsail frame is therefore tilted with respect to a horizontal axis of rotation that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and therefore essentially horizontal or transverse. In the tilted position, the longitudinal axis of the wingsail frame can therefore be essentially horizontal. However, it can be difficult to find an inclined wingsail, as it requires a lot of space on the vessel's deck. Therefore, to be able to install a wingsail arrangement including multiple wingsail structures on different types of vessels, it is important to minimize the space required as much as possible. The present invention further provides a solution that minimizes the space required when placing the wingsail in the tilted position.

[0031] According to the invention to minimize the space required, the wingsail and the flaps are moved from a first deployed standing position, in which the wingsail and the flaps provide propulsion for the vessel, to a second folded standing position. The folded standing position means that the main wingsail and / or the flaps rotate towards each other about one or more vertical axes, which in the standing position are essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the wingsail frame. When arranged opposite each other, the main wingsail and the flaps are in an at least partially overlapping position in a transverse plane, i.e. when viewed from the front of the wing structure. The wingsail frame is inclined with respect to a transverse or horizontal axis of rotation perpendicular to the vertical axis of rotation and inclined towards the deck of the vessel. The folding can be achieved, for example, by rotating the flaps so that they overlap the main wingsail. In this way, the wingsail frame can be stored in a neutral non-propulsive position. Furthermore, when the main wingsail and flaps are folded, the wingsail frame is subject to less lateral stretch than when it is in the propelled upright position. This is a major advantage due to the limited space on board a vessel. The wingsail frame is usually folded into the upright position before tilting, but this is not necessary. A further advantage is that wind lift is reduced, reducing stress on the components in high winds. The wingsail can be tilted on deck and stored in a flat or upright position.

[0032] The wingsail structure, including the wingsail frame and foundation, and the device including one or more wingsail structures, may be used on marine or watercraft used as transportation on water. The main wingsail and the flaps are made of substantially rigid or semi-rigid materials and have an airfoil shape. Both the main wingsail and the flaps have sidewalls, leading edges, trailing edges, top ends, and bottom ends. A "rigid" material means a combination of materials that cannot be folded and can support its own weight when applied to parallel edges of such materials. A "semi-rigid" material means a material that is partially rigid and has some flexibility, but can support its own weight when applied to parallel edges of such materials.

[0033] In this application, the term "aerofoil" refers to a profile of an airfoil that has an aerodynamic shape when viewed in cross section from forward to aft, i.e. from leading edge to trailing edge. An aerodynamic airfoil shape is advantageous because it allows air to pass more easily over the wing sail. The shape may be asymmetric in the aforementioned direction, but may also include a symmetrical cross section, or the shape may be a symmetrical airfoil. Airfoil shapes are defined, for example, according to the NACA standardization series, but the shapes are not limited thereto.

[0034] For a better understanding of the invention of this disclosure, the same will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are provided to illustrate examples of non-limiting embodiments of the invention.

[0035] With reference to Figure 1a, a vessel 1 is shown including a wind-assisted propulsion device 10 with three wingsail structures 100. Each wingsail structure 100 comprises a wingsail frame 101, shown diagrammatically by a dotted rectangle in Figure 1b. Both the main wingsail 110 and the flap 120 are rigid or semi-rigid, meaning that they have some flexibility. The wingsail structure is shown further from above in Figures 2a and 2b, to which reference is also made here.

[0036] The wingsail structure 100 further comprises a foundation 20 configured to be fixed to the body 3 of the vessel 1. The foundation 20 is associated with the wingsail frame 101 and supports the frame when the wingsail frame is in an upright vertical position, i.e. in the propelling position (I) or in the folded position (IIa, IIb). The foundation is associated with the wingsail frame when the wingsail frame is provided in an inclined position (IIIa, IIIb), in which the wingsail frame is inclined relative to the foundation which is directly or indirectly fixed to the body 3 of the vessel.

[0037] In the first deployed standing position (I) shown in Figure 1a, the wingsail frame is placed in a first standing propulsion position (I). The propulsion provided by the main wingsail and flaps can be altered by changing the camber, i.e. the curvature convexity of the shape of the main wingsail and flaps from the leading edge of the main wingsail to the trailing edge of the flaps. Figure 2a shows an example of the camber in the first propulsion standing position (I) from a top view.

[0038] Both the main wingsail 110 and the flap 120 have an airfoil shape. The main wingsail has a leading edge 117, a trailing edge 118 (FIG. 2a), an upper end 115, a lower end 116 (FIG. 1b), and sidewalls 211, 212 (FIG. 2a) extending therebetween. Similarly, the flap 120 has a leading edge 127 and a trailing edge 128 (FIG. 2a), a leading edge 117, a trailing edge 118 (FIG. 1b), and sidewalls 221, 222 (FIG. 2a) extending therebetween. The airfoil shape is generally tapered from the leading edge to the trailing edge.

[0039] The sidewalls 221, 222 are integrated to form an airfoil shape with the leading edge 127 and the trailing edge 128. The sidewalls 221, 222 and the upper end 115 and lower end 116 are formed of modules that are permanently or removably attached to one another, and together the modules form an airfoil shaped integrated wingsail or flap. The wingsail and flap profiles may be designed with different modular elements that can be combined to achieve different sized wingsails. The main wingsail and flaps may be constructed of any suitable material, such as, but not limited to, moldable polymeric materials, fiberglass materials, carbon fiber materials, and / or composite materials.

[0040] The wingsail frame 101 further comprises an upper connecting member 130 and a lower connecting member 140 configured to rotatably connect the main wingsail 110 and the flap 120 to each other. For example, they may include means for rotatably connecting the main wingsail and the flap, for example actuators and / or rotation axes connected to or included in one or both of the connecting members. Rotatably connected means that the main wingsail 110 and / or the flap 120 can be rotated towards each other about a vertical axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the wingsail frame. In Fig. 2a this is indicated by the arrow R, showing how the flap 120 rotates from a first deployed standing position (I) towards the main wingsail 110 about a second vertical rotation axis 112 to a second folded standing position (IIa) shown in Fig. 2b. In this variation, the second pivots 112 of the upper and lower connecting members 130, 140 are arranged to allow the trailing edge 128 of the flap 120 to rotate towards the leading edge 117 of the main wingsail 110. In this second folded position (IIa), the right sidewall 222 of the flap is folded towards the right sidewall 212 of the main wingsail 110. As shown in FIG. 2b, folding the flap towards the main wingsail can reduce the lateral length T of the wingsail frame 101 shown between FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b. The rigid or semi-rigid main wingsail 110, the flap 120, and the upper and lower connecting members 130, 140 form the frame 101 of the wingsail structure 100.

[0041] The wingsail frame may be connected to the base part 20, for example, via a shaft 22 (FIG. 1b) that defines a first axis of rotation 111 (FIG. 2a). The wingsail frame 101 can rotate relative to the base part 20 via this first axis of rotation. A non-limiting schematic example of a rotation device 200 suitable for rotating the wingsail frame 101 is shown in FIG. 12. FIG. 12 is a simplified schematic diagram of a wingsail frame without flaps, not to scale. The rotation device 200 is associated with a shaft 22, which is connected to the base part 20 via an associated tilting device 300, which will be described in more detail below. The shaft 22 is connected to the wingsail frame 101 via the lower end 140 of the main wingsail 110 and can pass through the lower end 140.

[0042] In the illustrated non-limiting example, the shaft 22 has its upper end 24 housed inside the main wingsail 110. The shaft end 24 is connected to a drive 210 for rotating the wingsail frame 101 about a longitudinal axis of rotation RW extending in a vertical direction V relative to the deck of the vessel body 3. The drive 210 may consist of an electric motor (not shown), a hydraulic actuator, or other suitable drive means including a manual crank arm. The shaft 22 is also connected to suitable upper and lower bearings 220 and 230 housed in a housing 240. The wingsail frame rotates around the shaft 22 by means of the drive and upper and lower bearings (e.g. rolling bearings).

[0043] In general, the main wing sail, the flaps, and the upper and lower connecting means may include suitable arrangements configured to provide rotational movement about the rotation axis, and may include, for example, shafts, bearings (e.g., roller bearings), actuators, and drive means. The rotation of the wing sail frame, the main wing sail, and / or the flaps may be controlled by incorporating electrically controllable means or the like on each rotation axis. A control unit may then be connected to the drive to regulate the rotation of the wing sail frame, the main wing sail, and / or the flaps. The rotation angle of the wing sail frame, the main wing sail, and / or the flaps is adjusted to the surrounding conditions. The rotation devices and respective vertical rotation axes of the main wing sail and the flaps may be arranged with stop means such that the rotation angle is limited to a certain angle. By limiting the rotation angle, uncontrolled rotation of parts of the wing sail frame may be avoided, for example, in case of changes in prevailing wind / weather conditions.

[0044] According to the present invention, folding the flaps 120 towards the main wingsail 110 and placing the wingsail frame 101 in a third inclined stowed position (IIIa), for example as shown in Figures 4, 5a, 10 and 11a, provides a space-saving inclined stowed position (IIIa, IIIb) for the wingsail frame 101. The inclined position is a substantially horizontal position with respect to the deck of the vessel, where the wingsail frame is positioned towards the deck.

[0045] 3, the wingsail structure 100 is shown in a second folded erected position (IIa). In the erected position, the longitudinal axis L of the wingsail structure (shown in relation to only one structure 100) is essentially parallel to a general vertical axis V perpendicular to the horizontal axis H of the vessel 1. The horizontal axis H may extend in substantially the same direction as the deck floor. The wingsail structure also extends in a depth direction D perpendicular to the plane formed by the two-dimensional longitudinal direction L and transverse direction T. The depth length may increase as the flaps are folded towards the main wingsail.

[0046] To achieve the tilted position shown in Figure 4, the wingsail frame 101, when the wingsail frame is in the standing position IIa, has a longitudinal axis L extending in the vertical direction V, but tilts about a transverse axis of rotation RT, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L and therefore approximately horizontal. The arrow RT indicates the direction of tilting relative to the axis of rotation RT and is shown in Figures 3 and 12. In the tilted position, the longitudinal axis L of the wingsail frame is essentially parallel or approximately parallel to the horizontal axis H. The tilting can be achieved by a tilting device 300 included in the wingsail structure 100.

[0047] A non-limiting schematic example of a tilting device 300 suitable for moving the wingsail frame 101 from the second standing position (II) to the third tilted stowed position (IIIa) is shown in Fig. 12. The tilting device 300 is associated with the base part 20 and the shaft 22, which is connected to the wingsail frame 101 via the main wingsail 110. The lower end 26 of the shaft 22 is connected to a tilting means 310 having a rotation axis RT, with respect to which the wingsail frame 101 can be tilted in the direction indicated by the arrow RT. The tilting means 310 is connected to the base part 20 via the rotation axis RT. The tilting means 310 further comprises a locking means 312 that prevents tilting and fixes the shaft 22, and thus the wingsail frame 101, in the standing position. The locking means is released when the wingsail frame 101 is tilted. The tilting device 300 further comprises a tilting drive 350 including a tilting cylinder 320 connected to the base 20. The tilting cylinder can be, for example, a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder. At a second end, the tilting cylinder is rotatably connected to a moment shaft 330, which is further connected to the shaft 22. When the wingsail frame is tilted, the locking means is released. By driving the extension of the cylinder 320, the moment shaft 330 presses the shaft 22 and rotates about the rotation axis RT. In this way, the wingsail frame 101 connected to the shaft 22 is tilted to a tilt position IIIa about the rotation axis RT, and the wingsail frame is stowed in a horizontal position, i.e. the side wall 211 or 212 of the main wingsail and the side wall 221 or 222 of the flap face the body of the vessel 3, as shown in Figs. 4 and 10. Alternatively, the tilting device may be arranged so that the leading edge 117 or trailing edge 118 of the main wingsail 110 and the leading edge 127 or trailing edge 128 of the flaps face the body of the vessel 3, tilting the wingsail frame into a vertical standing position, as shown in Figures 5b and 11b.This tilted vertical position IIIb is shown enlarged in Figures 5b and 11b, where in the bottom view of the wingsail frame 101 in Figures 5c and 11c, the longitudinal axis L of the wingsail frame 101 is approximately parallel to the horizontal length H of the body of the vessel 3. The transverse axis T of the wingsail frame 101 is parallel to the vertical axis V to the horizontal length of the body of the vessel 3. In this third vertical tilted position (IIIb), the wingsail structure 100 can have an even smaller footprint on the deck of the vessel, which is a major advantage. The vertical tilted position (IIIb) can also be obtained by rotating the tilted wingsail structure 101 from the horizontal tilted position (IIIa) shown in Figure 4 to the vertical tilted position (IIIb). Another variant is to arrange the wingsail structure with means that allow the wingsail frame to rotate about its longitudinal axis (l) during tilting. Alternatively, the wingsail frame may be rotated from a horizontal to a vertical stowed position when tilted, or vice versa.

[0048] It should be noted that in Figures 4, 5a-5c, 10, 11a-11c, which show the vertically tilted position (IIIb), the base part is separated from the shaft 22 by the means shown. However, it is clear that the base part 20 and the shaft 22 can be connected to each other even when tilted, for example via the tilting means 310, which is the case when using the tilting device 300 described above. Additionally or instead, other connection means or additional rotation means can be used.

[0049] 1a, 1b, 2a and 2b, an embodiment of a wingsail frame according to the present invention is shown in more detail with an upper connecting member 130 and a lower connecting member 140. Each of the upper connecting member 130 and the lower connecting member 140 in the illustrated embodiment is configured to provide a second axis of rotation 112 for rotating the flap 120 relative to the upper connecting member 130 and the lower connecting member 140. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper connecting member 130 and the lower connecting member 140 are further configured to provide a third axis of rotation 113 for rotating the main wingsail 110 relative to the upper connecting member 130 and the lower connecting member 140. Furthermore, the upper connecting member 130 and the lower connecting member 140 are connected to the upper ends 115, 125 and the lower ends 116, 126 of the main wingsail 110 and the flap 120, respectively. The lower connecting member is configured to provide a first axis of rotation 111 for rotating the wingsail frame 101 relative to the base 20. The first rotation axis 111 is offset from the third rotation axis 113 for rotating the main wingsail 110. The first rotation axis 111 is disposed between the third rotation axis 113 and the second rotation axis 112. The first rotation axis, the second rotation axis, and the third rotation axis each extend in the longitudinal (longitudinal) direction L of the wingsail frame 101. Known commercially available means for providing the rotation axes may be used, such as commercially available shafts, bearings, and the like. By having the first rotation axis 111, the second rotation axis 112, and the third rotation axis 113 as independent rotation axes, loads may be transferred from the wingsail profile to the vessel interface.

[0050] The upper and lower connecting members 130, 140 have substantially similar shapes and extend from a point near the third axis of rotation 113 located near the leading edge 117 of the main wingsail 110 to a point near the second axis of rotation 112 located near the leading edge 127 of the flap 120. The shape of the connecting members may resemble an airfoil shape or may have another shape that matches the lateral length T and depth D of the connecting members, thereby tapering in the direction from the main wingsail towards the flap. Providing three separate axes of rotation associated with the upper and lower connecting members provides a robust connection of the main wingsail and the flap while allowing for flexibility such as fine adjustment of camber provided by the wingsail frame.

[0051] Reference is now made to another embodiment of a wingsail frame, shown in figures 6 to 11c. Similar to figure 1a, a vessel 1 is shown equipped with a wind-assisted propulsion device 10 having three wingsail structures 100. Each wingsail structure 100 comprises a wingsail frame 101 and is shown in more detail from above in figures 7a, 7b and 7c. The main wingsail 110 and the flaps 120 are rigid or semi-rigid, meaning that they have a certain degree of flexibility, similar to the main wingsail and flaps already described in relation to figures 1a to 2b, and in this respect reference is made to the above description.

[0052] The wingsail frame 101 of the embodiment of Figures 6-10 differs from the wingsail frame 101 of Figures 1a-2b with respect to the shape and function of the upper and lower connecting members 130, 140 configured to rotatably connect the main wingsail 110 and the flap 120 to one another. In the embodiment of Figures 6-10c, the upper and lower connecting members 130, 140 are configured to provide a second axis of rotation 112 for rotating the flap 120 relative to the upper and lower connecting members 130, 140, as well as a fourth axis of rotation 114 for rotating the flap 120 relative to the main wingsail 110.

[0053] The fourth rotation axis 114 is associated with the main wingsail 110 and allows the flap 120 to rotate relative to the main wingsail 110. At the same time, the upper connecting member 130 and the lower connecting member 140 may not be configured to provide a first rotation axis 111 for rotating the wingsail frame relative to the base. Instead, the first rotation axis 111 is associated with the shaft 22 connected to the lower end 116 of the main wingsail 110 in association with the rotation device 200, as shown in, for example, Figures 5b, 5c, 11b, 11c, and 12. Thus, when the main wingsail 110 rotates about the first rotation axis, the entire wingsail frame rotates. In this embodiment, the connecting members 130, 140 may include link arms rotatable about the second rotation axis 112 and the fourth rotation axis 114.

[0054] FIG. 7a shows a top view of the wingsail structure 100 when the wingsail frame is positioned in a first deployed propulsion standing position (I). As can be seen, the main wingsail 110 and the flaps form a convex arc-shaped camber to provide the desired propulsion force. The flaps 120 may rotate from the first deployed standing position (I) towards the main wingsail 120 about the second vertical axis of rotation 112 as indicated by the arrow R in FIG. 7a to a second folded standing position (IIa) shown in FIG. 7b. In this second folded position (IIa), the right sidewall 222 of the flap 120 is folded towards the right sidewall 212 of the main wingsail 110, while the flap 120 may be folded in the opposite direction such that the sidewall 221 of the flap 120 is folded towards the sidewall 211 of the main wingsail 110.

[0055] FIG. 7c shows a further variant of the folding obtained by the fourth rotation axis 114 provided on the upper and lower connecting members 130, 140. The flap 120 can also be rotated from the first deployed standing position (I) around the second vertical rotation axis 112 in a counterclockwise (or clockwise) direction compared to the clockwise direction indicated by the arrow R in FIG. 7a. At the same time, the upper and lower connecting means 130, 140 are rotated in a clockwise direction with respect to the fourth rotation axis 114, and the flap is rotated with its side wall 221 facing the side wall 212 of the main wingsail. Also, the trailing edge 117, 127 of the main wingsail and the flap 117 are brought close to each other. In this second folded position (IIb), the flap 120 faces in the same direction as the main wingsail 110. In this second folding position (IIb), the lateral length T of the wingsail frame 101 can be further reduced compared to the second folding position (IIa).

[0056] By "same direction" it is meant that the primary alignment of the wing sails and flaps, i.e., leading and trailing edges, are primarily pointing within 90 degrees of each other.

[0057] Reference is now made to a further embodiment of a wingsail frame, shown in Figures 8a-8c. In a similar manner to that in relation to Figure 1a, the wingsail structure 100 comprises a wingsail frame 101 including a rigid or semi-rigid main wingsail 110 and flaps 120, similar to the main wingsail and flaps already described in relation to Figures 1a-2b, to which reference is made above in this respect.

[0058] The wingsail frame 101 of the embodiment shown in Figures 6-10c differs from that of Figures 1a-2b mainly with respect to the shape and function of the upper and lower connecting members 130, 140 configured to rotatably connect the main wingsail 110 and the flap 120 to each other. In the embodiment of Figures 6, 7a-7c, the upper and lower connecting members 130, 140, in addition to being configured to provide a second axis of rotation 112 for rotating the flap relative to the upper and lower connecting members 130, 140, are also configured to provide a fourth axis of rotation 114 for rotating the flap 120 relative to the main wingsail 110.

[0059] Referring to the embodiment shown in Figures 7a-7c, an upper connecting member 130 and a lower connecting member 140 are attached to the upper ends 115, 125 of the main wing sail 110 and the flap 120, respectively, and the lower ends 116, 126 of the main wing sail 110 and the flap 120, respectively. The connecting members extend between a second rotation axis 112 associated with the flap 120 and a fourth rotation axis 114 associated with the main wing sail 110. Connecting the connecting members to the second rotation axis 112 and the fourth rotation axis 114 allows the flap 120 to rotate around the main wing sail 110. At the same time, the upper connecting member 130 and the lower connecting member 140 are not configured to provide a first rotation axis 111 for the rotation of the wingsail frame 101 relative to the base. Instead, the first rotation axis 111 is associated with the lower end 116 of the main wingsail 110, for example, as shown in relation to the rotation device 200 of Figure 12. Thus, when the main wingsail 110 rotates about the first rotation axis 111, the entire wingsail frame 101 rotates. In the embodiment of Figures 7a-7c, the connecting members 130, 140 are comprised of link arms, which may be configured to be rotatable about and connected to the second rotation axis 112 and the fourth rotation axis 114.

[0060] 8a-8c, the upper and lower connecting members 130, 140 are attached to the trailing edge 118 of the main wing sail and the leading edge of the flap 120. The upper and lower connecting members 130, 140 are attached to the lower ends 116, 126 of the main wing sail 110 and the flap 120, respectively, at a distance from the upper ends 115, 125 of the main wing sail 110 and the flap 120, respectively. Note that an additional connecting member 150 is attached between the upper and lower connecting members 130, 140, and multiple additional connecting members may be used between the upper and lower connecting members 130, 140. The connecting members 130, 140, 150 extend between the second axis of rotation 112 associated with the flap 120 and the fourth axis of rotation 114 associated with the main wing sail 110. To facilitate folding of the flap 120 to the second folded position (IIa), the connecting members 130, 140, 150 may have a curved link arm shape. The link arms may be attached to respective recesses in the main wingsail and the flap and attached to the side walls 211, 212, 221, 222 of the main wingsail and the flap by suitable means. Also, in this variant, the connecting members 130, 140, 150 are not configured to provide a first rotation axis 111 for rotating the wingsail frame 101 relative to the base. Instead, the first rotation axis 111 is associated with the lower end 116 of the main wingsail 110, for example, as shown in relation to the rotation device 200 in FIG. 12. Thus, when the main wingsail 110 is rotated about the first rotation axis 111, the entire wingsail frame 101 is rotated.

[0061] The wind-assisted propulsion device 10 may be operated according to the following method, including controlling the rotation angles of the wingsail frame 101, the main wingsail 110 and / or the flaps 120 to provide camber in a first erect propulsion position (I), folding the flaps towards the main wingsail to a second folded erect position (IIa, IIb), and tilting the wingsail frame (101) towards the body of the vessel to a third tilted position (IIIa, IIIb). The wingsail frame is lifted from the tilted position to the erect position when propulsion is required or desired.

[0062] The detailed description and drawings are intended to facilitate understanding of the embodiments of the invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention, which is limited by the appended claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0063] 1 ship 3. Main unit 10 Wind-assisted propulsion device 20 Foundation 22 Shaft 24 Top 100 Wingsail Construction 101 Wingsail Frame 110 Main Wingsail 111 First Rotation Axis 112 Second Rotation Axis 113 The third axis of rotation 114 The Fourth Rotation Axis 115 Top 116 Bottom end 117 Leading Edge 118 Trailing edge 120 Flap 127 Leading Edge 128 Trailing edge 130 Upper connecting member 140 Lower connecting member 200 Rotating Device 210 Drive unit 211, 212, 221, 222 side wall 240 Housing 300 Tilt device 310 Tilting means 312 Locking means 330 Moment Shaft D Depth L Vertical axis R Arrow RT Rotation Axis T Horizontal length V vertical axis

Claims

1. A wingsail structure (100) for a wind-assisted propulsion device (10) for a vessel (1), comprising: a rigid or semi-rigid main wingsail (110) having an airfoil shape with a leading edge, a trailing edge, an upper end (115) and a lower end (116) with sidewalls (211; 212) extending therebetween; a rigid or semi-rigid flap (120) having an airfoil shape with a leading edge, a trailing edge, an upper end (125) and a lower end (126) with side walls (221; 222) extending therebetween; at least one upper link member (130) and at least one lower link member (140) connecting the main wingsail and the flap; A wingsail frame (101) having a base (20) arranged to be fixed to the body (3) of the vessel (1), the base (20) being associated with said wingsail frame, said wingsail frame being rotatable relative to the base via a first vertical axis of rotation (111); A wingsail structure (100) comprising: The upper connecting member (130) and the lower connecting member (140) are Moving the main wing sail and the flaps to a first deployed and erected position (I). configured to move the main wingsail and the flap closer together to a second folded and erected position (IIa; IIb); The wingsail structure (101) further comprises a tilting device (300) configured to move the wingsail frame (101) from the second folded upright position (IIa; IIb) to a third inclined position (IIIa; IIIb) relative to the base.

2. 2. The wingsail structure (100) of claim 1, wherein the upper connecting member (130) and the lower connecting member (140) are configured to provide a second axis of rotation (112) for rotating the flap (120) relative to the upper connecting member (130) and the lower connecting member (140).

3. 3. The wingsail structure (100) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the upper connecting member (130) and the lower connecting member (140) are configured to provide a third axis of rotation (113) for rotating the main wingsail (110) relative to the upper connecting member (130) and the lower connecting member (140).

4. The wingsail structure (100) of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the upper connecting member (130) and the lower connecting member (140) are connected to the upper ends (115; 125) and lower ends (116; 126) of the corresponding main wingsail and flaps, respectively, and the lower connecting member is configured to provide a first axis of rotation (111) for rotating the wingsail frame (101) relative to the base portion (20).

5. 3. The wingsail structure (100) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the upper connecting member (130) and the lower connecting member (140) are configured to provide a fourth axis of rotation (114) associated with the main wingsail (110) for rotating the flap (120) relative to the main wingsail (110).

6. The wingsail structure (100) of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the upper connecting member (130) and the lower connecting member (140) are connected to upper ends (115; 125) and lower ends (116; 126) of the corresponding main wingsail and flap, respectively.

7. A wingsail structure (100) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3 and 5, wherein the upper connecting member (130) and / or the lower connecting member (140) are connected at a fixed distance from the corresponding upper end (115; 125) and lower end (116; 126), respectively.

8. The wingsail structure (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein in the third inclined horizontal stowed position (IIIa), the wingsail frame (101) is arranged in a horizontal position with the side walls (211, 212; 221, 222) extending between the leading edge (117; 127) and the trailing edge (118; 128) of the corresponding main wing (110) and the flaps (120) facing the body of the vessel.

9. The wingsail structure (100) of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein in a third inclined vertical storage position (IIIb), the wingsail frame (101) is arranged in a vertical position with a leading edge (117) or a trailing edge (118) of the main wingsail (110) facing the body (3) of the vessel (1) and with a trailing edge (128) or a leading edge (127) of the flap (120) facing the body of the vessel.

10. 10. The wingsail structure (100) of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the main wingsail and the flap are each composed of one or more semi-rigid or rigid modules removably connected to each other to form an integral main wingsail or flap having an airfoil shape.

11. A wind-assisted propulsion device (10) comprising at least one wingsail structure (100) according to any one of the preceding claims.

12. A watercraft (1) comprising a wind-assisted propulsion device (10) according to claim 11.

13. A method of operating at least one wingsail structure (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10 in a wind-assisted propulsion device (10), comprising: - controlling the rotation angle of the wingsail frame (101), the main wingsail and / or the flaps (120) in a first upright thrust position (I) to provide camber; - folding said flap (120) towards said main wingsail to form a second folded upright position (IIa; IIb); - tilting said wingsail frame (101) towards the body of the vessel to form a third tilted position (IIIa; IIIb); The method comprising:

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