Rotor sail assembly system and method for installing a rotor sail

Abstract

To provide a streamlined assembly or installation system and process for rotor sails that significantly reduces logistical complexity and manufacturing costs, enhances scalability, and improves operational efficiency. [Solution] Each rotor sail has at least an internal tower 104 and an external rotor 106, and the system includes a tilting assembly 108 mechanically coupled to the ship's assembly site 110, the tilting assembly comprising a fixed bottom part 112 mechanically coupled to the assembly site, a movable upper part 114 detachably coupled to the fixed bottom part, and a tilting mechanism 120 configured to drive the movable upper part to move between a first and second state, and in correspondingly the rotor sail to move from a horizontal installation position to a vertical operation position, the movable upper part comprising an assembly platform 116 configured to accommodate the first end of the internal tower and / or the first end of the external rotor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The disclosure of the present application (hereinafter referred to as the present disclosure) relates to the assembly and testing of propulsion devices such as rotor sails and suction sails. The present disclosure particularly relates to systems and methods for installing one or more rotor sails. Background

[0002] Wind propulsion devices, particularly rotor sails, utilize wind power to propel ships. There are a great many variations of wind propulsion devices, ranging from traditional ones such as square sails, soft sails, hard sails, lateen sails, and gaff sails, to wing sails, trapezoidal sails, rotor sails, kite sails, turbine sails, suction sails, and so on. Each of these has its own characteristic structure and uses. Rotor sails are widely employed on ships as auxiliary propulsion devices that utilize the Magnus effect to generate aerodynamic forces. Rotor sails utilize the Magnus effect to generate additional thrust for ship propulsion. This improves maritime transport efficiency (or fuel consumption) while simultaneously reducing operating costs and greenhouse gas emissions. The manufacture, testing, and installation of rotor sails on ships involve significant challenges such as substantial capital costs and complex logistics. Therefore, a precise and efficient assembly system is required to handle parts safely and reliably and ensure structural integrity for optimal performance.

[0003] Conventional solutions such as assembly systems and processes require a wide range of equipment such as tools, electricity, and work containers, and it takes approximately two weeks to prepare the corresponding assembly site. Also, due to their size and weight, rotor assemblies need to be disassembled into individual parts (inner towers and rotors) during transportation. Such solutions assume that the assembly site constantly changes, so it is necessary to construct the infrastructure for rotor sail assembly and testing every time a rotor sail is installed. In addition, the parts of rotor sails require specialized transportation, handling using large cranes, and precise assembly work, which complicates manufacturing and increases installation costs.

[0004] For example, when installing a rotor sail consisting of a steel tower and rotor, the steel tower requires special transport means (such as a mobile crane) that is at least 5 meters high and 4 meters wide, and the rotor requires special transport means (such as a large truck) that is at least 6 meters high and 5 meters wide. In addition, two mobile cranes with a capacity of 500 tons or more and a hook height of 65 meters or more are required for handling and / or installing the rotor. Thus, the installation process becomes extremely time-consuming and costly. Furthermore, testing of the rotor sail (e.g., balancing and factory acceptance testing) must be performed in a vertical position, which thus increases the risk of logistical and operational challenges and increases the complexity, time, and associated costs of installation.

[0005] Based on these discussions, there is a need to provide a streamlined assembly or installation system and process for rotor sails that overcomes the aforementioned shortcomings of conventional technology, significantly reduces logistical complexity and manufacturing costs, enhances scalability, and improves operational efficiency. Summary

[0006] An objective of this disclosure is to provide a rotor sail assembly system for preparing a rotor sail for installation. Another objective of this disclosure is to provide a method for preparing a rotor sail for installation. The objectives of this disclosure are achieved by using the rotor sail assembly system and method for preparing a rotor sail for installation described in the appended independent claims, in order to eliminate, or at least partially reduce, the need for heavy lifting equipment, while simultaneously reducing installation time and complexity and improving the operational efficiency and performance of the rotor sail assembly system and method. Advantageous features are described in the appended dependent claims.

[0007] In a certain aspect, the present disclosure provides a rotor sail assembly system for preparing a rotor sail for installation. The rotor sail comprises at least an internal tower and an external rotor. The system is: The assembly includes a folding assembly that is mechanically connected to the assembly site. • A fixed base component mechanically attached to the assembly site, • A movable upper part detachably connected to the fixed bottom part, A tilting mechanism is configured to drive the movable upper part so that it moves the movable upper part between a first state and a second state, and in response, the rotor sail moves from a horizontally installed position to a vertically operating position. It is equipped with.

[0008] In some embodiments, the movable upper component includes an assembly platform configured to accommodate the first end of the internal tower of the rotor sail and / or the first end of the external rotor of the rotor sail.

[0009] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for preparing a rotor sail for installation. The rotor sail comprises at least an internal tower and an external rotor. The method is as follows: The invention includes providing a folding assembly that is mechanically connected to the assembly site. However, the folding assembly is • A fixed base component mechanically attached to the assembly site, • A movable upper part detachably connected to the fixed bottom part, A tilting mechanism configured to drive the movable upper part so as to move the movable upper part between a first state and a second state, The method further comprises, the first state resulting in an installation position of the internal tower or external rotor of the rotor sail to be installed, and the second state resulting in an operating position of the internal tower or external rotor. - Transporting the internal tower, which is received by the assembly platform of the tilting assembly, to the assembly site using one or more lifting devices, The received internal tower is connected to the assembly platform of the tilting assembly via coupling means, - Transporting the external rotor, which is to be received by the assembly platform and the internal tower, to the assembly site using one or more lifting devices, The received external rotor is coupled to the assembly platform and / or the internal tower via coupling means, Using the aforementioned tilting assembly, the coupled rotor sail is raised from a horizontal installation position to a vertical operating position, or conversely, tilted down, thereby completing the installation of the rotor sail. Includes.

[0010] In some embodiments, the movable upper component includes an assembly platform configured to accommodate the first end of the internal tower of the rotor sail and / or the first end of the external rotor of the rotor sail.

[0011] Throughout this specification and in its claims, phrases such as “equipped with,” “include,” and “possess” do not mean that they include a certain element but not that they include only that element. They do not preclude the existence of other components, items, numbers, or steps that are not expressly disclosed. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified in the context, singular expressions also include plural forms. In particular, where an indefinite article is used in the original text, this specification assumes both singular and plural forms unless otherwise required in the context. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] Figures 1A and 1B show front views of a rotor sail assembly system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a rotor sail assembly system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 3 is a schematic flowchart illustrating the procedure for installing one or more rotor sails according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Figures 4A to 4F show schematic representations of exemplary processes for preparing a rotor sail for installation, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Figures 5A and 5B show oblique views of the first and second states of the folding assembly according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed description of the embodiments

[0013] The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the Disclosure and the ways in which they may be carried out. While several forms for carrying out the Disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art will recognize that other forms for carrying out the Disclosure are also possible.

[0014] In a certain aspect, the present disclosure provides a rotor sail assembly system for preparing a rotor sail for installation. The rotor sail comprises at least an internal tower and an external rotor. The system is: The ship's assembly site is equipped with a mechanically connected folding assembly. • A fixed base component mechanically attached to the assembly site, • A movable upper part detachably connected to the fixed bottom part, A tilting mechanism is configured to drive the movable upper part so that it moves the movable upper part between a first state and a second state, and in response, the rotor sail moves from a horizontally installed position to a vertically operating position. It is equipped with.

[0015] This disclosure provides a rotor sail assembly system for preparing a rotor sail for installation. The term “rotor sail assembly system” as used herein refers to a configuration of multiple mechanical, electrical, and electronic components (or devices) configured to facilitate the preparation of a rotor sail for installation. This assembly system can also be used to disassemble a rotor sail. The rotor sail assembly system (hereinafter simply referred to as the “System”) may be implemented, for example, in a factory, shipyard, or similar location. The rotor sail is assembled and prepared using the assembly system to be suitable for installation. Rotor sail installation is typically performed on various types of vessels, such as commercial transport ships, passenger ships, and special vessels. The System is configured to facilitate and streamline the installation and removal, assembly and disassembly, testing, modification, and transportation of one or more rotor sails, while eliminating the need for heavy machinery such as large cranes, forklifts, and trucks required by conventional solutions.

[0016] The system is configured to prepare a rotor sail for installation. The rotor sail comprises at least one of an internal tower and an external rotor. The rotor sail assembly system according to this disclosure enhances the ability and efficiency of preparing one or more rotor sails and their components (internal tower and external rotor) for installation, testing, removal, and maintenance by reducing installation time, complexity, and associated installation and maintenance costs.

[0017] The term "rotor sail" as used herein refers to a type of propulsion device that generates (forward) thrust through self-rotation using the Magnus effect, thereby assisting the navigation of a vessel. Depending on the embodiment, the rotor sail may be a Flettner motor or a Magnus motor. Depending on the embodiment, the rotor sail may be at least one of a retractable or telescopic rotor sail, a retractable rotor sail, a twin-rotor system, a horizontal rotor sail, a hybrid rotor sail, or a modular rotor sail. One or more rotor sails installed by this system may have multiple components, such as one or more rotors, drive units, power sources, base plates, absorbers, control systems, sensors, safety mechanisms, etc., but for the sake of brevity of this specification, they will not be described here.

[0018] The system is configured to handle and / or assist in the preparation (i.e., assembly) process for the installation of rotor sails of various types, shapes, and sizes, without being limited by this disclosure. Depending on the embodiment, the rotor sail may have at least one shape from cylindrical, semi-cylindrical, conical, rectangular, or a combination thereof. Accordingly, the system of this disclosure is configured to facilitate the installation of one or more rotor sails of various shapes. Depending on the embodiment, the rotor sail may have a height of 15 m to 60 m and a width or diameter of 3 m to 6 m. For example, the height may range from 15 m, 20 m, 25 m, 30 m, 35 m, 40 m, 45 m, 50 m, 55 m to 20 m, 25 m, 30 m, 35 m, 40 m, 45 m, 50 m, 55 m, 60 m. Accordingly, the system of this disclosure is configured to assist in the installation of one or more rotor sails and their components of various sizes, without limitation.

[0019] Furthermore, the system is configured to handle the preparation of the rotor sail for the installation of rotor sail components of various types, sizes, and shapes of one or more rotor sails. Specifically, in one or more embodiments, the internal tower has a height of 10m to 50m and a width or depth of 3m to 6m. As an example, the height ranges from 10m, 15m, 20m, 25m, 30m, 35m, 40m, 45m to 15m, 20m, 25m, 30m, 35m, 40m, 45m, 50m. Also, depending on the embodiment, the external rotor has a height of 5m to 15m and a width or depth of 3m to 6m. "Preparing the rotor sail for installation" means constructing or assembling the rotor sail from the rotor sail components and making it in a state where it can be installed on an object such as a ship. Furthermore, it also represents preparing the rotor sail from the rotor sail components for test purposes. In some cases, the rotor sail may be disassembled after the test.

[0020] In particular, the system is designed to assemble one or more rotor sails based on the installation requirements, enabling one or more rotor sails to take a desired orientation (angle). For example, angles such as 90 degrees, 60 degrees, 45 degrees, 30 degrees, or 0 degrees. Advantageously, the system allows the preparation of the rotor sail for installation in a precise and efficient manner while ensuring the structural integrity for optimal performance and guaranteeing the safe and reliable handling of one or more rotor sails and / or their components. Although this disclosure focuses on the installation of the rotor sail, it will be understood that any other type of propulsion device or its components can be interchangeably installed or managed by the system without any limitation by this disclosure.

[0021] In this specification, a rotor sail comprises at least an internal tower and an external rotor. The internal tower forms the base structure (or member) of the rotor sail, and the external rotor forms the rotating member of the rotor sail. Here, “internal tower” refers to the internal (or inner) structural support member of the rotor sail, providing a mounting base for the external rotor and designed to function as a primary load-bearing element. The internal tower may be manufactured from metals (e.g., iron, aluminum, silicon, nickel, chromium, etc.), non-metals (e.g., carbon, etc.), alloys (e.g., steel, aluminum, etc.), or composites thereof, to ensure strength and durability while keeping weight down. For example, the internal tower may comprise a steel tubular structure with reinforcing flanges for mechanical connection to a vessel or assembly site for one or more rotor sails. As used herein, the term “external rotor” refers to the external (or outer) rotating component of the rotor sail that generates thrust by receiving wind through the Magnus effect. The external rotor is rotatable around its own axis, and a dedicated motor may be added to assist its rotation. The rotation of the external rotor is accelerated by the wind it receives. Therefore, external rotors enable the rotor sail to function as an auxiliary propulsion system for the vessel. External rotors may be constructed from lightweight materials such as carbon fiber, aluminum alloy, or reinforced plastic to optimize the rotational efficiency of one or more rotor sails. External rotors may also be surface-treated and / or coated to improve aerodynamic properties and corrosion resistance.

[0022] In some embodiments, the rotor sail further has at least one end plate disposed at the second end of the inner tower of the rotor sail or at the second end of the outer rotor. As used herein, the term "end plate" refers to a flat or undulating structural element of one or more rotor sails. Generally, the at least one end plate is permanently or removably coupled to the second end of the outer rotor. However, in some embodiments, the at least one plate may be located and coupled to the first end of the outer rotor or the inner tower. The at least one end plate is configured to affect the airflow and reduce the inherent energy loss to improve the aerodynamic efficiency and overall performance of the outer rotor. Therefore, the performance of one or more rotor sails installed through the system of the present disclosure is also improved.

[0023] The system includes a lifting assembly that is mechanically coupled at the assembly site. Typical assembly sites include shipyards, docks, factories, etc. Therefore, the "assembly site" refers to the structural location (or framework) where the rotor sail is prepared for installation (usually on a ship). Here, the "ship" refers to an ocean vessel or a boat. The ship is designated and designed to have one or more rotor sails installed. The lifting assembly may be permanently installed at the assembly site for a specific rotor sail installation or may be temporarily installed (i.e., removably coupled to function as a movable lifting assembly).

[0024] As used herein, the term “raised and lowered assembly” refers to a system of multiple electromechanical components configured to enable one or more rotor sails and their components to be raised, lowered, positioned, or set up. A raised and lowered assembly may have at least one of the following to enable its operation: an electric drive (or motor), a hydraulic cylinder or mechanical arm, a gear system, a winch, etc. The internal components of a raised and lowered assembly are well known to those skilled in the art and are therefore omitted from description. Accordingly, various types of electromechanical components can be used individually or in combination to enable the operation of a raised and lowered assembly, without any limitations of this disclosure.

[0025] The folding assembly comprises a fixed base component that is mechanically coupled to the assembly site. “Fixed base component” refers to the fixed base component of the folding assembly, i.e., the component mechanically coupled to the assembly site. For example, the fixed base component is secured by bolting or welding to ensure stability during upright operation. In another example, the fixed base component is coupled using a quick-release coupling, pneumatic coupling, or friction coupling. In an exemplary scenario, the fixed base component has a steel platform or frame with integrated anchor points for secure attachment to the deck of a vessel.

[0026] The tilting assembly further comprises a movable upper component detachably coupled to a fixed base component. The movable upper component may include an assembly platform configured to accommodate the first end of an internal tower and / or the first end of an external rotor.

[0027] The term “movable upper component” refers to a dynamic and movable component of the tilting assembly. Specifically, it is detachably coupled to the fixed base component and configured to move perpendicularly to the fixed base component, thereby raising or lowering and positioning one or more rotor sails. The movable upper component comprises an assembly platform configured to accommodate the first end of the internal tower and / or the first end of the external rotor when installed.

[0028] The term "assembly platform" as used herein refers to a dedicated structure (or position) designed to hold and support the first end (or bottom end) of the internal tower and / or external rotor. The assembly platform of the movable upper section may include dedicated mechanical elements, grooves, projections, or combinations thereof for accommodating the incoming rotor sail or its internal tower and external rotor. For example, the assembly platform may include adjustable clamps, brackets, or recesses for securely holding the internal tower and external rotor. Furthermore, the assembly platform may include adjustable fasteners for aligning and securing components of the rotor sail and sensors or indicators for monitoring the position and orientation of components during operation. For example, the assembly platform may include hydraulic clamps for holding the internal tower in place during the installation of the external rotor.

[0029] In some embodiments, the assembly platform for the movable upper portion of the tilting assembly is designed to accommodate the shapes of the internal tower and external rotor of the rotor sail. To obtain an effective joint that allows for the secure and reliable handling of one or more rotor sails through the tilting assembly, the assembly platform is typically designed based on the shapes and sizes of the internal tower and / or external rotor of one or more rotor sails.

[0030] In some embodiments, the movable upper component includes an assembly platform configured to accommodate the first end of the internal tower of the rotor sail and / or the first end of the external rotor of the rotor sail.

[0031] The tilting assembly comprises a tilting mechanism configured to drive the movable upper part so as to move the movable upper part between a first state and a second state, and in correspondence, the rotor sail moves from a horizontal installation position to a vertical operating position. "First state" and "second state" refer to the posture and / or orientation of the movable upper part of the tilting assembly achieved by the operation of the tilting mechanism. Here, the first state is associated with the open position of the tilting assembly and is used when connecting and / or installing the internal tower and / or external rotor. When the tilting mechanism takes the first state, the rotor sail and its components take a horizontal (installation) position. The second state is associated with the closed position of the tilting assembly and is used when connecting or installing the internal tower and / or external rotor. When the tilting mechanism takes the second state, the rotor sail and its components take a vertical (operating) position.

[0032] A “lifting mechanism” refers to an electromechanical system configured to drive a movable upper component and transition between different states. Depending on the embodiment, the lifting mechanism may include at least one electric motor, hydraulic motor, or pneumatic motor. The lifting mechanism may also include a hydraulic cylinder, winch, or motor to control the state changes of the upper component of the lifting assembly. For example, a hydraulic piston system may lift the movable upper component from a first state (related to the horizontal position of the rotor sail) to a second state (related to the vertical operating position of the rotor sail). The lifting mechanism may include safety features such as a locking mechanism or load sensors to ensure controlled and safe lifting operations. The range of motion of the lifting assembly is determined by the lifting assembly itself, and therefore the lifting mechanism can be modified to meet implementation requirements without being limited by this disclosure. As an example, the lifting assembly has a single degree of freedom and a range of motion from 0 to 90 degrees. In another example, the lifting assembly has two degrees of freedom and a range of motion from 0 to 90 degrees. In yet another example, the tilting assembly has multiple degrees of freedom, with a range of motion from 0 to 180 degrees.

[0033] In a typical operational scenario, the rotor sail assembly system is used to prepare the rotor sail for installation on a vessel as follows: The fixed base components of the tilting assembly are secured to the assembly site, such as a shipyard. The internal tower and external rotor are positioned horizontally on the assembly platform for the movable superstructure. The tilting mechanism is activated to raise the movable superstructure, moving the rotor sail components to the vertical operating position. Once the vertical operating position is reached, the rotor sail components may be mechanically coupled to the vessel or its assembly site.

[0034] This disclosure also provides a method for preparing a rotor sail to be installed. Various embodiments and modifications disclosed above are applicable to this method without limitation.

[0035] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for preparing a rotor sail for installation. The rotor sail comprises at least an internal tower and an external rotor. The method is as follows: The invention includes providing a folding assembly that is mechanically connected to the assembly site. However, the folding assembly is • A fixed base component mechanically attached to the assembly site, • A movable upper part detachably connected to the fixed bottom part, A tilting mechanism configured to drive the movable upper part so as to move the movable upper part between a first state and a second state, The method further comprises, the first state resulting in an installation position of the internal tower or external rotor of the rotor sail to be installed, and the second state resulting in an operating position of the internal tower or external rotor. - Transporting the internal tower, which is received by the assembly platform of the tilting assembly, to the assembly site using one or more lifting devices, The received internal tower is connected to the assembly platform of the tilting assembly via coupling means, - Transporting the external rotor, which is to be received by the assembly platform and the internal tower, to the assembly site using one or more lifting devices, The received external rotor is coupled to the assembly platform and / or the internal tower via coupling means, • In order to complete the installation of the rotor sail, the raised and lowered assembly is used to raise the coupled rotor sail from the first state to the second state, Includes.

[0036] This method relates to the preparation of a rotor sail for installation. This preparation includes the assembly of the rotor sail from its components, testing of the rotor sail, and, if applicable, the disassembly of the rotor sail after testing. This allows for the verification of the components and rotor sail unit before installation on the vessel or before transportation to the shipyard where installation will take place. The rotor sail has at least an internal tower and an external rotor. This method is designed to enable efficient and precise assembly of the rotor sail on a vessel using a tilting assembly. This method includes multiple steps that ensure the correct positioning and secure attachment of one or more rotor sails and their components, with each step demonstrating a clear technical effect to increase work efficiency and reduce preparation (assembly) time.

[0037] This delicious, The invention includes providing a folding assembly that is mechanically connected to a ship assembly site. However, the folding assembly is A fixed bottom component mechanically attached to the assembly site, A movable upper part is detachably connected to the fixed bottom part, A tilting mechanism is configured to drive the movable upper part so that it moves between a first state and a second state. Equipped with, In some embodiments, the movable upper component comprises an assembly platform configured to accommodate the first end of the internal tower of the rotor sail and / or the first end of the external rotor of the rotor sail. The first state results in the installation orientation of the internal tower or external rotor of the rotor sail, and the second state results in the operating orientation of the internal tower or external rotor.

[0038] This raising and lowering assembly is provided and installed at the assembly site to safely and efficiently install one or more rotor sails. Specifically, the fixed base portion is securely fixed to the assembly site, ensuring a stable foundation for subsequent raising and / or installation work.

[0039] In some embodiments, the movable upper component includes an assembly platform configured to accommodate the first end of the internal tower of the rotor sail and / or the first end of the external rotor of the rotor sail.

[0040] The method further includes transporting the internal tower, which is to be received on the assembly platform of the tilting assembly, to the assembly site using one or more lifting devices. The internal tower is transported to the assembly site using one or more lifting devices such as a mobile crane, winch, or truck. In particular, the one or more lifting devices used in this method may have relatively lower capacity compared to the prior art due to the lower weight and height requirements. Upon arrival at the assembly site, the internal tower is received on the assembly platform of the tilting assembly and precisely positioned so that the internal tower is securely coupled to the assembly platform.

[0041] The method further includes connecting the received internal tower to the assembly platform of the raising and lowering assembly using coupling means. "Coupling means" means any mechanical device, fastener, or mounting mechanism used to secure the internal tower and the external rotor to the assembly platform and to each other in the rotor sail installation process. For example, coupling means may include bolt fasteners, clamps and brackets, pin connectors, pneumatic couplers, magnetic couplers, etc. The coupling means ensure secure fastening of the rotor sail and its components during the raising or installation process, ensuring that the components are held in place throughout the entire installation process, and preventing movement, displacement, or detachment.

[0042] The method further includes transporting the external rotor, to be received by the assembly platform and the internal tower, to the assembly site using one or more lifting devices. After coupling with the internal tower, the external rotor is similarly transported to the assembly site using one or more lifting devices and installed. The method further includes coupling the received external rotor to the assembly platform and / or internal tower using coupling means. Similarly, the external rotor is coupled to the assembly platform and internal tower using coupling means.

[0043] The method further includes using the tilting assembly to raise the coupled rotor sail from a horizontal installation position to a vertical operating position, thereby completing the installation of the rotor sail. The tilting assembly is then activated to raise (or lift) or lower the coupled rotor sail from a horizontal (installation) position to a vertical (operating) position. The tilting assembly can be configured, without limitation in this disclosure, to raise or lower the coupled rotor sail at any intermediate position between the horizontal installation position and the vertical operating position. In conclusion, the method for installing one or more rotor sails provides a systematic, safe, and efficient process for mounting, securing, and installing an internal tower and external rotor on any vessel. Beneficially, the method enables precise raising, coupling, and positioning of the internal tower and external rotor, providing a rapid, reliable, and efficient installation mechanism for one or more rotor sails while reducing installation errors and associated installation and maintenance costs. [Detailed description of the drawing]

[0044] Referring to Figures 1A and 1B, front views of a rotor sail assembly system for preparing a rotor sail for installation, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 1A shows a front view of a rotor sail assembly system 100 for installing a rotor sail 102. In this figure, the rotor sail 102 is in a horizontal installation position. In Figure 1B, the rotor sail 102 is in a vertical operation position. As shown in the figures, each rotor sail 102 comprises at least an internal tower 104 and an external rotor 106. The rotor sail 102 may be a Flettner rotor or a Magnus rotor. The rotor sail assembly system 100 comprises a tilting assembly 108 mechanically coupled to an assembly place 110 of a vessel (not shown). The tilting assembly 108 further comprises a fixed bottom component 112 mechanically coupled to the assembly place 110. The tilting assembly 108 further comprises a movable upper component 114 detachably coupled to a fixed base component 112. The movable upper component 114 comprises an assembly platform 116 configured to accommodate the first end 104A of the internal tower 104 of the rotor sail 102, and / or the first end 106A of the external rotor 106 of the rotor sail 102. The tilting assembly 108 further comprises a tilting mechanism 120 that drives the movable upper component 114 to change between a first state (see Figure 1B below) and a second state (see Figure 1A). In response to this change in state, the rotor sail 102 changes from a horizontal installation position to a vertical operation position. In some embodiments, the rotor sail 102 further comprises at least one end plate 122. The end plate 122 is located at the second end 104B of the internal tower 104 of the rotor sail 102 or the second end 106B of the external rotor 106. The end plate 122 is configured to evenly distribute the inherent forces generated when the rotor sail 102 changes its attitude from a horizontal position to a vertical position, or vice versa.

[0045] Referring to Figure 2, a perspective view of a rotor sail assembly system 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. As shown in the figure, the rotor sail 102 to be installed is moved from a horizontal installation position to a vertical operating position using a tilting assembly 108 with respect to the rotor sail assembly system 100. During operation, the tilting assembly 108 is actuated through the tilting mechanism to move the movable upper component 114 between a first and second state. Correspondingly, the rotor sail 102 is moved from a horizontal installation position to a vertical operating position. Other states of the movable upper component 114, and corresponding other positions of one or more rotor sails 102, are also achievable by the system 100. No limitations are placed on the present disclosure in this regard. As an example, one or more rotor sails 102 may be positioned at a 45-degree angle to the fixed bottom component 112. In another example, one or more rotor sails 102 may be positioned at a 30-degree angle to the fixed bottom component 112. In yet another example, one or more rotor sails 102 may be positioned at a 45-degree angle to the fixed bottom component 112. This allows the rotor sails to be tested before being installed on the vessel.

[0046] Referring to Figure 3, a schematic flowchart illustrating the steps in Method 200 for installing one or more rotor sails 102 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Method 200 includes the following steps 202, 204, 206, 208, 210, 212, where the rotor sail 102 has at least an internal tower 104 and an external rotor 106, and these need to be installed in order to complete the installation of one or more rotor sails 102.

[0047] As shown in the figure, in step 202, method 200 includes providing a tilting assembly 108 that is mechanically coupled to the assembly site 110. The tilting assembly 108 is provided by method 200 to enable the assembly (preparation) and / or disassembly (usually after testing) of one or more rotor sails 102.

[0048] In step 204, method 200 includes transporting the internal tower 104 to the assembly area 110 using one or more lifting devices. The internal tower 104 is received at the assembly platform 116 of the tilting assembly 108. The internal tower 104 is initially transported through one or more lifting devices such as a mobile crane, support device, or rollers.

[0049] In step 206, method 200 includes coupling the received internal tower 104 to the assembly platform 116 of the lifting assembly device 108 via coupling means 130. After being transported, the internal tower 104 is positioned and coupled to the assembly platform 116 to allow for further work.

[0050] In step 208, method 200 includes transporting the external rotor 106 to the assembly site 110 using one or more lifting devices. The external rotor 106 is received by the assembly platform 116 and the internal tower 104. Once the internal tower 104 is connected, the external rotor is transported to the assembly site 110.

[0051] In step 210, method 200 includes coupling the received external rotor 106 to the assembly platform 116 and / or internal tower 104 by coupling means. After the external rotor is transported to the assembly site 110, it is positioned and thereby coupled to the assembly platform 116 and / or internal tower 104, enabling further work.

[0052] Then, in step 212, method 200 includes using the tilting assembly 108 to raise (or reverse) the coupled rotor sail 102 from a horizontal installation position to a vertical operation position to complete the installation of one or more rotor sails 102.

[0053] Depending on the embodiment, Method 200 further includes performing a balance test on the rotor sail 102 to determine the performance of the rotor sail 102. Method 200 further includes performing a factory acceptance test (FAT) to verify the functionality of the rotor sail 102 in operation in order to complete the installation of the rotor sail 102. Method 200 further includes performing a torque check to ensure the coupling between the internal tower 104 and the external rotor 106 of the rotor sail 102. Method 200 further includes installing at least one end plate 122 on the second end 104B of the internal tower 104 of the rotor sail 102, or on the second end 106B of the external rotor 106.

[0054] Referring to Figures 4A to 4F, schematic representations of exemplary processes for preparing the rotor sail 102 for installation, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure (similar to method 200 in Figure 3).

[0055] Referring to Figure 4A, a first stage of the process of preparing a rotor sail for installation is shown according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. This preparation includes assembling and testing the rotor sail. As shown in the figure, the first stage involves preparing a tilting assembly 108 that is mechanically coupled to the ship's assembly site 110. Further as shown in the figure, the internal tower 104 is transported to the assembly site 110 using one or more lifting devices (e.g., mobile cranes) and received on the assembly platform 116 of the tilting assembly 108.

[0056] Referring to Figure 4B, a second step of the process according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. As shown in the figure, the received internal tower 104 is coupled to the assembly platform 116 of the tilting assembly 108 by coupling means 130.

[0057] Referring to Figure 4C, a third stage of the process according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. As shown in the figure, the external rotor 106 is transported to the assembly site 110 using one or more lifting devices and received on the assembly platform 116 and internal tower 104.

[0058] Referring to Figure 4D, a fourth step of the process according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. As shown in the figure, the received external rotor 106 is coupled to the assembly platform 116 and / or internal tower 104 by coupling means 130.

[0059] Referring to Figure 4E, a fifth step of the process according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. As shown in the figure, the received external rotor 106 is coupled to the assembly platform 116 and / or internal tower 104 by coupling means 130.

[0060] Referring to Figure 4F, a sixth step of the process according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. As shown in the figure, a rotor sail 102 having at least an internal tower 104 and an external rotor 106 is assembled. The assembled rotor sail can be transported, for example, for installation on a ship.

[0061] Referring to Figures 5A and 5B, oblique views are shown of a first and second state of a tilting assembly 108 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The tilting assembly 108 is mechanically coupled to an assembly site 110, such as the ground. As shown in the figures, the tilting assembly 108 includes a fixed base component 112 mechanically coupled to the assembly site 110. The tilting assembly 108 further includes a movable upper component 114 detachably coupled to the fixed base component 112. The movable upper component 114 includes an assembly platform 116 configured to accommodate the first end 104A of the internal tower 104 of the rotor sail 102, and / or the first end 106A of the external rotor 106 of the rotor sail 102. The tilting assembly 108 further includes a tilting mechanism 120 that drives the movable upper component 114 to change between a first state (see Figure 1B) and a second state (see Figure 1A). The first state represents the installation (assembly) position of the internal tower 104 or external rotor 106 of the rotor sail 102 to be installed, and the second state represents the operating position of the internal tower 104 or external rotor 106 of the rotor sail 102 to be installed. The assembly of the rotor sail can be performed in the first state, and testing can be performed in the second state.

[0062] Figures 4A-4F and 5A, 5B are for illustrative purposes only and do not unduly limit the scope of the claims. Those skilled in the art will be able to recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications of the embodiments of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A rotor sail assembly system for preparing a rotor sail for installation, wherein the rotor sail comprises at least an internal tower and an external rotor, and the system is The assembly site is equipped with a folding assembly that is mechanically connected, and the folding assembly is - A fixed base component mechanically attached to the assembly site, - A movable upper part detachably connected to the fixed bottom part, - A tilting mechanism configured to drive the movable upper part so that it moves between a first state and a second state, and in response, the rotor sail moves from a horizontally installed position to a vertically operating position, Equipped with, The aforementioned system, - To determine the performance of the rotor sail, a balance test of the rotor sail shall be conducted. - In order to complete the installation of the rotor sail, a factory acceptance test (FAT) will be conducted to verify the functionality of the rotor sail during operation. - Torque checks shall be performed to ensure that the connection between the internal tower and the external rotor of the rotor sail is secure. - At least one end plate is installed at the second end of the internal tower of the rotor sail or at the second end of the external rotor. A system including at least one of the following.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the rotor sail further comprises at least one end plate, the end plate being positioned at the second end of the internal tower of the rotor sail or at the second end of the external rotor, and the end plate being configured to evenly distribute the inherent forces generated when the rotor sail changes its attitude from the horizontal installation position to the vertical operation position, or vice versa.

3. The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the rotor sail is a Fretner rotor or a Magnus rotor.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein the rotor sail has at least one shape from among cylindrical, semi-cylindrical, conical, rectangular parallelepiped, or a combination thereof.

5. The height of the rotor sail is in the range of 15 meters to 60 meters. The width or diameter of the rotor sail is in the range of 3m to 6m. The width of the rotor sail is between 3m and 6m. The system described in any of the preceding claims.

6. The height of the aforementioned internal tower is in the range of 10m to 50m. The width of the aforementioned internal tower is in the range of 3m to 6m. The width of the aforementioned internal tower is between 3m and 6m. The system described in any of the preceding claims.

7. The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the movable upper component comprises an assembly platform configured to accommodate the first end of the internal tower of the rotor sail and / or the first end of the external rotor of the rotor sail.

8. The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the assembly platform for the movable upper portion of the tilting assembly is designed to accommodate the shapes of the internal tower and the external rotor of the rotor sail.

9. The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the tilting mechanism includes at least one of an electric motor, a hydraulic motor, or a pneumatic motor.

10. A method for preparing a rotor sail for installation, wherein the rotor sail comprises at least an internal tower and an external rotor, and the method is The invention includes providing a folding assembly that is mechanically connected to the assembly site. However, the folding assembly is - A fixed base component mechanically attached to the assembly site, - A movable upper part detachably connected to the fixed bottom part, - A tilting mechanism configured to drive the movable upper part so that it moves between a first state and a second state, and in response, the rotor sail moves from a horizontally installed position to a vertically operating position, Equipped with, - Transporting the internal tower, which is received on the assembly platform of the tilting assembly, to the assembly site using one or more lifting devices, - The received internal tower is connected to the assembly platform of the tilting assembly via coupling means, - Transporting the external rotor, which will be received by the assembly platform and the internal tower, to the assembly site using one or more lifting devices, - The received external rotor is coupled to the assembly platform and / or the internal tower via the coupling means, - Using the aforementioned tilting assembly, raise the connected rotor sail from a horizontal installation position to a vertical operating position, or conversely, tilt it down, thereby completing the installation of one or more rotor sails. Includes. The aforementioned method further, - To determine the performance of the rotor sail, a balance test of the rotor sail shall be conducted. - In order to complete the installation of the rotor sail, a factory acceptance test (FAT) will be conducted to verify the functionality of the rotor sail during operation. - Torque checks shall be performed to ensure that the connection between the internal tower and the external rotor of the rotor sail is secure. - At least one end plate is installed at the second end of the internal tower of the rotor sail or at the second end of the external rotor. A method that includes at least one of the following.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein the movable upper component comprises an assembly platform configured to accommodate the first end of the internal tower of the rotor sail and / or the first end of the external rotor of the rotor sail.

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