Wind propulsion device

Abstract

Improve rigidity. [Solution] The wind propulsion device of one embodiment is a wind propulsion device that is installed on a moving body and generates propulsion force by receiving wind, and is equipped with a rotating body that has a frame portion formed in a circular ring shape centered on a rotation axis and is rotatable around the rotation axis, and a plurality of blades that are arranged so that imaginary lines connecting both ends are parallel in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis, and the rotating body has a support structure that includes a plurality of supports that are connected to the frame portion and support each of the plurality of blades.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to wind propulsion devices. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a sailing ship that has windmill-shaped vertical blades that rotate around a vertical axis and that can be propelled by wind power. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 6-199287 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the sailing vessel, a pillar is sometimes provided in the center to reduce the wobble of the rotation axis. If multiple wings are supported only by the pillar in the center to reduce weight, the rigidity will decrease.

[0005] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and has an object to provide a wind-powered propulsion device that can improve rigidity. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] As a means for solving the above problems, the present invention has the following configuration. (1) A wind-powered propulsion device according to an aspect of the present invention is a wind-powered propulsion device that is installed on a moving body and receives wind to generate propulsive force, Extends vertically The rotor has a frame formed in a circular ring shape centered on a rotation axis and is rotatable around the rotation axis, and a plurality of blades arranged so that imaginary lines connecting both ends are parallel in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis, and the rotor has a support structure including a plurality of pillars connected to the frame and supporting each of the plurality of blades.

[0007] According to this configuration, the multiple wings are supported by the multiple pillars of the support structure, which improves rigidity compared to when the wings are supported only by the central pillar.

[0008] (2) In the wind propulsion device described in (1) above, the support structure may further include a central pillar provided at the center of the frame portion when viewed from an axial direction along the rotation axis, and a plurality of spoke portions extending radially from the central pillar and connected to the frame portion.

[0009] (3) In the wind propulsion device described in (1) above, the support structure may further include a central pillar provided at the center of the frame portion when viewed from an axial direction along the rotation axis, and a plurality of inner blade beam portions extending radially outward from the central pillar, each of whose outer ends is connected to the plurality of support pillars, and each of which is provided inside the plurality of blades.

[0010] (4) In the wind propulsion device described in (1) above, an internal space communicating in the axial direction along the rotation axis is formed inside the support structure, the multiple supports are arranged at equal intervals circumferentially around the frame portion, the multiple supports and the frame portion are arranged so as to be positioned within an imaginary cylinder centered on the rotation axis, and the multiple blades extend across the internal space and each end is supported by the multiple supports.

[0011] (5) In the wind propulsion device described in (1) above, an internal space communicating in the axial direction along the rotation axis is formed inside the support structure, the multiple supports are arranged at equal intervals in the radial direction of the frame portion, the multiple supports and the frame portion are arranged so as to be positioned within an imaginary cylinder centered on the rotation axis, and the multiple blades extend across the internal space and each end is supported by the multiple supports.

[0012] (6) A wind-powered propulsion device according to an aspect of the present invention is a wind-powered propulsion device that is installed on a moving body and receives wind to generate propulsive force, Extends verticallyThe rotor has a frame formed in a circular ring shape centered on a rotation axis and is rotatable around the rotation axis; and a plurality of blades arranged so that imaginary lines connecting both ends of each blade in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis are parallel, and two of the plurality of blades are arranged symmetrically with respect to a line containing the rotation axis, and the axial ends along the rotation axis of two blades are arranged so as to form a trapezoid when viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line.

[0013] This configuration improves rigidity compared to when the axial ends of the two blades arranged symmetrically with respect to an axis are arranged to form a parallelogram when viewed in a direction parallel to the imaginary line.

[0014] (7) In the wind propulsion device described in (6) above, the rotating body further has a plurality of pillars connected to the frame portion and supporting each of the plurality of blades, and when viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line, the two pillars on either side of the rotation axis may be arranged along the legs of the trapezoid.

[0015] (8) The wind propulsion device described in any one of (1) to (7) above may comprise an assembly consisting of the rotating body and the plurality of blades, and the assembly may comprise a plurality of subassemblies arranged in a circumferential or radial direction of the frame portion and detachably connected to each other.

[0016] (9) In the wind propulsion device described in (8) above, the subassembly may include an upper frame member and a lower frame member each formed in a semicircular shape when viewed from an axial direction along the rotation axis, and the upper vertices of the plurality of blades may be connected to the upper frame member and the lower vertices may be connected to the lower frame member.

[0017] (10) In the wind propulsion device described in (8) or (9) above, the plurality of subassemblies may each consist of two subassemblies formed in a semicircular shape when viewed from an axial direction along the rotation axis, and the assemblies may be provided in plurality along the axial direction, and the plurality of assemblies may be stacked so that the two subassemblies in each subassembly are offset in the circumferential direction and overlap when viewed from the axial direction.

[0018] (11) In the wind propulsion device described in any one of (8) to (10) above, the plurality of subassemblies may comprise an arc-shaped portion that constitutes the frame portion and is formed in an arc shape when viewed from the axial direction of the rotation shaft, and a plurality of supports that are detachably connected to the arc-shaped portion.

[0019] (12) The wind propulsion device described in any one of (1) to (11) above may comprise an assembly consisting of the rotating body and the plurality of blades, and the assemblies may be arranged in a plurality along the axial direction of the rotating shaft, and the number of the plurality of assemblies may be N, where M is a natural number, and the plurality of assemblies may be arranged with a shift of 180×M / N degrees from each other.

[0020] (13) In the wind propulsion device described in (12) above, the axial ends of two of the plurality of blades that are arranged symmetrically with respect to a line including the rotation axis are arranged to form a trapezoid when viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line, and the plurality of assemblies may be arranged such that, when viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line, one axial end of each of the plurality of blades is connected to the other axial end of a blade that is shifted one position inward or outward around the rotation axis.

[0021] (14) In the wind propulsion device described in any one of (1) to (13) above, the axial ends of two of the plurality of blades that are arranged symmetrically with respect to a line including the rotation axis are arranged so as to form a trapezoid when viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line, and two of the plurality of assemblies that are adjacent in the axial direction when viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line may be stacked so that each of the plurality of blades is along the legs of the trapezoid that are facing in opposite directions. [Effects of the Invention]

[0022] According to the present invention, the rigidity can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a wind propulsion system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of a wind power propulsion system according to a first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of energy and the like in a wind propulsion system together with a comparative example. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a wind turbine sail body in the wind-powered propulsion device of the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a wind-powered propulsion device (wire type) according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a wind-powered propulsion device (spoke type) according to a third embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a wind-powered propulsion device (inside-blade support type) according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a wind-powered propulsion device (completely cylindrical type) according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a wind-powered propulsion device (trapezoidal blade) according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a trapezoidal support column of a wind-powered propulsion device according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a divided model of a wind-powered propulsion device according to a seventh embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing an assembly of a wind-powered propulsion device according to a seventh embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a wind-powered propulsion device (semicircular stacking type) according to an eighth embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing an assembly of a wind-powered propulsion device according to a ninth embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a subassembly (pillar type) of a wind-powered propulsion device according to a ninth embodiment. [Figure 16]FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram of a wind-powered propulsion device according to a tenth embodiment (example 1 of vertical continuity). [Figure 17] FIG. 23 is a side view of a plurality of assemblies of the wind-powered propulsion device of the tenth embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a plurality of blades of a wind-powered propulsion device according to a tenth embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram of a wind-powered propulsion device according to an eleventh embodiment (example 2 of vertical continuity). [Figure 20] FIG. 23 is a side view of a plurality of assemblies of the wind-powered propulsion device of the eleventh embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 23 is a side view of a wind-powered propulsion device (combination type of a support structure and a central blade) according to a twelfth embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of an assembly of a wind-powered propulsion device according to a twelfth embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a wind-powered propulsion device (multiple-tier stacked type) according to a thirteenth embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a wind-powered propulsion device according to a first modified example. [Figure 25] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a wind-powered propulsion device according to a second modified example. [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a wind-powered propulsion device (model using steel material) according to a third modified example. [Figure 27] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a wind-powered propulsion device according to a fourth modified example (another example of a complete cylindrical type). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] Hereinafter, wind propulsion devices and wind propulsion systems according to embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, expressions indicating relative or absolute arrangements, such as "parallel," "orthogonal," "center," and "coaxial," do not only mean the exact arrangement, but also include relative displacements with tolerances or angles or distances that provide the same functionality. In the drawings used in the following description, the scale of each component has been appropriately adjusted to make it recognizable.

[0025] <Wind propulsion system> Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a wind propulsion system 100 according to a first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the wind propulsion system 100 according to the first embodiment. Referring to Figures 1 and 2 together, the wind propulsion system 100 is installed on a ship 2 (an example of a moving body) and comprises a wind propulsion device 1 that receives wind and generates propulsion force, and a wind turbine sail control device 140 (an example of a wind control device) that controls the wind propulsion device 1.

[0026] The wind propulsion device 1 comprises a wind turbine sail body 111 that can rotate around a rotation axis RC (see FIG. 4) that extends vertically from the hull 3. The wind propulsion device 1 further comprises an electric motor 41 that rotates the wind turbine sail body 111. The wind turbine sail body 111 comprises an assembly 4 that includes a plurality of blades 10A to 10I that are connected together so as to be rotatable together around the rotation axis.

[0027] The wind propulsion device 1 includes a rotor 20 having a frame 21 formed in an annular shape centered on a rotation axis RC, the rotor 20 being rotatable about the rotation axis RC, and a plurality of blades 10A-10I arranged so that imaginary lines connecting both ends of the rotor 20 are parallel in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis RC (see FIG. 4). The rotor 20 includes a support structure 25 including a plurality of supports 26-28 that are connected to the frame 21 and support the plurality of blades 10A-10I, respectively. The rotor 20 having the frame 21 and the plurality of blades 10A-10I constitute an assembly 4.

[0028] The wind power control device 140 includes a speedometer 65 that acquires the moving speed of the vessel 2, a detection unit 7 that acquires wind condition information including the current wind speed and wind direction in the area where the vessel 2 is located, a calculation unit 126 that calculates the relative wind direction acting on the wind propulsion device 1 based on the acquired moving speed of the vessel 2 and wind condition information, and a rotation control unit 40 that controls the electric motor 41 in accordance with the calculated relative wind direction to adjust the rotation speed of the wind turbine sail main body 111. The wind propulsion device 1 that constitutes the wind propulsion system 100 functions as a wind turbine sail that propels the vessel 2 by catching wind and generating lift.

[0029] The wind propulsion system 100 includes: the wind propulsion device 1, which includes the wind turbine sail main body 111, the detection unit 7, the reception unit 8, and the rotation control unit 40 described above; a remote control device 120, which includes an operation unit 121 operated to control the propulsion speed of the ship 2, and a determination unit 134 that determines the target thrust of the wind propulsion device 1 and the target thrust of the propeller 51 driven by the prime mover 50 attached to the ship 2 according to the operation position of the operation unit 121; a wind turbine sail control device 140 that controls the rotation speed of the wind turbine sail main body 111 about the rotation axis according to the target thrust of the wind propulsion device 1; and a prime mover control device 150 that controls the rotation speed of the prime mover 50 according to the target thrust of the propeller 51. The wind propulsion system 100 constitutes a system (an integrated ship propulsion system) that integrates and controls two types of propulsion: propulsion by the wind propulsion device 1 and propulsion by the propeller 51 driven by the prime mover 50.

[0030] The vessel 2 is equipped with a remote control device 120, a prime mover 50, a shaft 52, a propeller 51, a shaft horsepower meter 55, a detection system 60, a speedometer 65, and a prime mover control device 150. Note that the vessel 2 does not necessarily have to be a vessel operated by a crew member. For example, the vessel 2 may be a vessel capable of operating autonomously.

[0031] The remote control device 120 executes a program (hereinafter referred to as the "vessel control program") that controls the operation of the vessel 2. By executing the vessel control program, the remote control device 120 functions as a device that includes an overall control unit 130, an operation unit 121, a communication unit 122, an output unit 123, a calculation unit 126, and a memory unit 124. The remote control device 120 includes the overall control unit 130 that controls the operation of each functional unit of the remote control device 120.

[0032] The integrated control unit 130 includes a processor 131, such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and a memory 132, which are connected by a bus. The processor 131 reads out the vessel control program stored in the storage unit 124 and stores the read vessel control program in the memory 132. The processor 131 executes the vessel control program stored in the memory 132.

[0033] The overall control unit 130 communicates with the prime mover control device 150, for example, by controlling the operation of the communication unit 122. The overall control unit 130 acquires information input via the operation unit 121, for example. The overall control unit 130 records information generated by the execution of a vessel control program, for example, in the storage unit 124. The overall control unit 130 acquires the rotation speed of the prime mover 50, for example. The integrated control unit 130 outputs, for example, the acquired rotation speed to the motor control device 150. In the following description, the value of the actual rotation speed of the motor 50 acquired (determined) by the integrated control unit 130 is also referred to as the "actual rotation speed."

[0034] The operation unit 121 is a handle for controlling the speed and direction of travel of the vessel 2. The operation unit 121 accepts operations by the crew. By operating the operation unit 121, the crew inputs either or both of the target engine speed and engine rotation direction to the remote control device 120. The target speed is the target rotation speed of the prime mover 50. The engine rotation direction is the rotation direction of the prime mover 50. The rotation direction of the prime mover 50 is either forward or reverse. The direction of travel of the vessel 2 when the rotation direction of the prime mover 50 is forward and the direction of travel of the vessel 2 when the rotation direction of the prime mover 50 is reverse are opposite to each other.

[0035] The operation unit 121 outputs the target rotation speed indicated by the result of the operation by the crew to the integrated control unit 130. The operation unit 121 outputs information indicating the engine rotation direction indicated by the result of the operation by the crew (hereinafter referred to as "rotation direction information") to the integrated control unit 130. Note that the operation unit 121 does not necessarily have to be operated by the crew. For example, when the ship 2 operates autonomously, the operation unit 121 may be operated by the integrated control unit 130 in accordance with a ship control program.

[0036] The communication unit 122 is configured to include a communication interface for connecting the remote control device 120 to the shaft horsepower meter 55, the detection system 60, the speedometer 65, and the prime mover control device 150. The communication unit 122 communicates with the shaft horsepower meter 55, the detection system 60, the speedometer 65, and the prime mover control device 150, for example, via either a wired or wireless connection. The communication unit 122 transmits, for example, target rotation speed, actual rotation speed, and rotation direction information to the prime mover control device 150.

[0037] The output unit 123 includes an output device such as a display device, such as a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display, a liquid crystal display, or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, or an audio output device, such as a speaker. The output unit 123 may be configured as an interface that connects these output devices to the output unit 123 itself. The output unit 123 outputs information related to the remote control device 120. The output unit 123 outputs, for example, the operation result of the operation unit 121.

[0038] The calculation unit 126 includes a processor (an example of a processing device) such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) connected via a bus. The calculation unit 126 calculates various information related to the remote control device 120. The calculation unit 126 calculates the relative wind direction acting on the wind-powered propulsion device 1 based on, for example, the acquired moving speed of the vessel 2 and wind condition information.

[0039] The memory unit 124 is configured using a memory device such as a magnetic hard disk drive or a semiconductor memory device. The memory unit 124 stores various information related to the remote control device 120. The memory unit 124 stores, for example, a vessel control program in advance. The memory unit 124 stores, for example, information generated by executing the vessel control program. The memory unit 124 stores, for example, a history of operations of the operation unit 121 by the crew. The memory unit 124 stores, for example, a history of the actual rotation speed of the prime mover 50.

[0040] The prime mover 50 is an engine that generates propulsive power for the vessel 2. The prime mover 50 converts the energy contained in the fuel into power. The prime mover 50 may be any type of fuel or have any operating mechanism as long as it can convert the energy contained in the fuel into power. The prime mover 50 is, for example, a two-stroke diesel engine. The prime mover 50 may also be, for example, a four-stroke diesel engine or a gas engine. For simplicity of explanation, the vessel 2 will be described below using an example in which the prime mover 50 is a two-stroke engine.

[0041] The shaft 52 rotates due to the power generated by the prime mover 50. The rotation speed of the shaft 52 is proportional to the rotation speed of the prime mover 50. The shaft 52 transmits the power generated by the prime mover 50 to the propeller 51 by rotating.

[0042] The propeller 51 rotates by the power generated by the prime mover 50. The propeller 51 generates a propulsive force that moves the boat 2 by its rotation.

[0043] The shaft horsepower meter 55 measures the power generated by the prime mover 50. The shaft horsepower meter 55 measures the power generated by the prime mover 50, for example, by detecting torsional strain occurring in the shaft 52 using either or both of an electrical method and an optical method.

[0044] Detection system 60 includes a sensor that detects the rotation speed of motor 50. The detection device may include, for example, a proximity sensor. The proximity sensor may be configured to output an ON signal when metal is located within a certain distance and an OFF signal when metal is not located within the certain distance. In this case, the proximity sensor outputs an ON signal when, for example, a convex portion of the asperities on the surface of shaft 52 is located within the detection range, and outputs an OFF signal when a concave portion is located within the detection range. Detection system 60 may detect the rotation speed of motor 50 based on such a change in the output of the proximity sensor and previously obtained information indicating the spacing between the asperities on shaft 52.

[0045] The detection system 60 is not limited to a proximity sensor and may include other types of devices. For example, the detection system 60 may include an encoder, a sensor that detects engine sound, or a sensor that detects engine vibration.

[0046] The speedometer 65 measures the speed of the vessel 2. The speedometer 65 measures the speed of the vessel 2, for example, by using the Doppler effect. The speed of the vessel measured by the speedometer 65 is specifically the speed of the vessel through water.

[0047] Prime mover control device 150 controls the operation of prime mover 50. Prime mover control device 150 determines the fuel injection amount and the timing of fuel injection based on the actual rotation speed acquired by determination unit 134. Prime mover control device 150 controls the operation of prime mover 50 so that the fuel injection amount is injected at the determined timing. Prime mover control device 150 controls the operation of prime mover 50 by executing a fuel input amount calculation process, a fuel input control process, and a rotation direction control process.

[0048] The fuel input amount calculation process is a process for calculating the amount of fuel to be input to the prime mover 50 (hereinafter also referred to as "fuel input amount") using a predetermined input amount calculation function based on the target rotation speed and the actual rotation speed. The input amount calculation function is a function that uses the target rotation speed and the actual rotation speed as explanatory variables and the fuel input amount as a response variable. The prime mover control device 150 calculates the fuel input amount by executing the fuel input amount calculation process.

[0049] The fuel input control process is a process for controlling the degree of opening and closing of a valve attached to a fuel input pipe so that the fuel input amount calculated by the fuel input amount calculation process is input to the prime mover 50. The fuel input pipe is a pipe that connects the prime mover 50 to a fuel tank (not shown), and is a pipe through which fuel flows from the fuel tank to the prime mover 50. The prime mover control device 150 executes the fuel input control process to input the fuel input amount from the fuel tank to the prime mover 50.

[0050] The rotation direction control process is a process for controlling the rotation direction of the prime mover 50 in the engine rotation direction. The rotation direction control process is a process for switching the rotation direction of the prime mover 50 between forward and reverse by operating, for example, the clutch of the prime mover 50. The prime mover control device 150 controls the rotation direction of the prime mover 50 in the engine rotation direction by executing the rotation direction control process.

[0051] The direction of the torque output by the prime mover 50 corresponds to the direction of rotation of the prime mover 50. Therefore, the direction of the torque when the rotation direction of the prime mover 50 is forward is opposite to the direction of the torque when the rotation direction of the prime mover 50 is reverse. Furthermore, the power generated by the prime mover 50 is a value obtained by multiplying the magnitude of the torque output by the prime mover 50 by the rotation speed of the prime mover 50.

[0052] The central control unit 130 further includes an acquisition unit 133 and a determination unit 134 . The acquisition unit 133 acquires the detection results of the detection system 60 via the communication unit 122. The determination unit 134 acquires the power measured by the shaft horsepower meter 55 via the communication unit 122. The acquisition unit 133 acquires the boat speed measured by the speedometer 65 via the communication unit 122. The acquisition unit 133 acquires the fuel input amount calculated by the prime mover control device 150 via the communication unit 122. The acquisition unit 133 acquires the target rotation speed and rotation direction information output by the operation unit 121 via the communication unit 122.

[0053] The determination unit 134 executes a rotation speed determination process. The rotation speed determination process is a process for determining one value of the rotation speeds obtained from the detection system 60 as the actual rotation speed of the prime mover 50 based on at least one of the target rotation speed, status information that is information related to the status of the prime mover 50, and the vessel speed of the vessel 2. Candidates for the actual rotation speed are, for example, a first rotation speed and a second rotation speed. The status information includes, for example, the amount of fuel input. The status information includes, for example, the power measured by the shaft horsepower meter 55.

[0054] The overall control unit 130 outputs the actual rotation speed determined by the determination unit 134 to the prime mover control device 150 via the communication unit 122. The overall control unit 130 outputs rotation direction information to the prime mover control device 150 via the communication unit 122. The overall control unit 130 outputs the target rotation speed to the prime mover control device 150 via the communication unit 122. The overall control unit 130 controls the operation of the output unit 123 to cause the output unit 123 to output information.

[0055] <Energy flow in wind propulsion systems> Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of energy and the like in the wind propulsion system 100, along with a comparative example. In Figure 3, various arrows indicate the flow of physical things, information, and electricity (an example of the flow of energy and the like).

[0056] As shown in Figure 3, in the comparative example (existing system), wind power is first converted into rotational force to turn the propeller. Therefore, in the comparative example, the propulsion efficiency decreases due to the additional force conversion. In contrast, in the wind propulsion system 100 of the embodiment, the windmill sail is treated as a propeller, and the lift (Magnus force) generated by the windmill sail as it rotates is used as direct propulsion force. In other words, the wind propulsion system 100 of the embodiment uses wind directly as propulsion force. As a result, the wind propulsion system 100 of the embodiment has improved propulsion efficiency compared to the comparative example.

[0057] In this way, the wind propulsion system 100 of the embodiment receives wind with the windmill sails and converts it into propulsive force. For example, just as a sailboat receives wind with its sails and converts it into propulsive force, a windmill sailboat also converts wind directly into propulsive force with the windmill sails. The wind propulsion system 100 of the embodiment is characterized by converting wind into propulsive force as a sailboat. Note that in the wind propulsion system 100 of the embodiment, the performance of the windmill sails as sails is superior to that of general rigid sails.

[0058] <Electric motor> 2 to 4, the rotation control unit 40 includes an electric motor 41 that can drive the rotation of the wind turbine sail main body 111. The electric motor 41 can drive the rotation of the wind turbine sail main body 111 around the rotation axis, and can both increase and decrease the speed of the rotation of the wind turbine sail main body 111. In other words, the electric motor 41 can drive the rotation of the blades 10A to 10H around the rotation axis, and can both increase and decrease the speed of the rotation of the blades 10A to 10H around the rotation axis.

[0059] <Brake part> Wind propulsion system 100 further includes braking unit 45 that brakes the rotation of blades 10A-10H about the rotation axis when detection unit 7 detects a wind speed equal to or greater than a threshold. By braking the rotation of blades 10A-10H about the rotation axis in strong winds using braking unit 45, the rotation speed of blades 10A-10H can be slowed down and lift can be reduced. Furthermore, by reducing lift in headwinds, induced drag can also be reduced.

[0060] <Energy storage unit> The wind propulsion system 100 further includes an energy storage unit 46 that stores regenerative energy of the electric motor 41 that is generated when the rotation of the rotary shaft is decelerated. This makes it possible to utilize the regenerative energy of the electric motor 41 stored in the energy storage unit 46. For example, the energy storage unit 46 may be configured to include a battery, a capacitor, etc.

[0061] As mentioned above, the windmill sail functions as a sail that converts wind power into propulsion power, but also as a generator that can convert excess energy into electricity when the wind power exceeds the propulsion command. For example, the extracted electricity can be used for driving the vehicle or for general purposes such as lighting.

[0062] <Acquisition part> The wind propulsion system 100 further includes an acquisition unit 133 that acquires the speed and direction of the currently occurring wind. If the acquired rotation speed of the blades 10A-10H, which rotate only due to the currently occurring wind, is equal to or lower than a threshold value, the rotation control unit 40 increases the rotation speed of the blades 10A-10H about the rotation axis by the electric motor 41. For example, if the thrust that can be generated by the windmill sails rotating without energy supply at the currently occurring wind speed and direction is insufficient in response to a thrust command, the thrust can be amplified by increasing the speed using the power of the electric motor 41.

[0063] For example, the threshold value of the rotation speed of blades 10A-10H (an example of the threshold value of the rotation speed of blades) is calculated based on a thrust command. For example, an optimal rotation speed may be calculated from the thrust command, and the rotation speed of blades 10A-10H may be increased by electric motor 41 based on the calculation result.

[0064] <Relationship between wind turbine sail control and prime mover control> The thrust that a windmill sailboat can generate without energy is limited. Therefore, the thrust that is insufficient without energy can be compensated for by the windmill sail drive mode (rotation drive of blades 10A to 10H). For example, the insufficient thrust in the windmill sail drive mode may be compensated for by the propeller 51 (propeller drive).

[0065] For example, the integrated control unit 130 calculates the optimal rotation speed of the blades 10A-10H around the rotation axis based on the received thrust command and the wind direction and wind speed detection results detected at the time of receiving the thrust command. For example, when controlling the rotation speed of the blades 10A-10H, seamless control may be performed without distinguishing between driving and braking by controlling the q-axis current using vector control. For example, the integrated control unit 130 may link the blades 10A-10H with the propeller 51 and adjust the thrust ratio between the wind turbine sail and the propeller 51 to maximize energy efficiency.

[0066] As described above, the wind propulsion system 100 is a system that converts wind power into propulsion force. For example, when a propulsion force command value is received from the remote control device 120, the system calculates the optimum rotation speed of the blades 10A to 10H based on the wind direction and wind speed so that the propulsion force is generated. The electric motor 41 is then controlled to achieve the calculated rotation speed. The rotation speed in this case also includes the direction of rotation. In the case of reverse rotation, the system controls the speed at a negative value.

[0067] For example, if the natural thrust of the wind turbine sailboat is insufficient, the propeller 51 is also driven. Depending on the wind direction, if the wind propulsion device 1 is more efficient than the propeller 51, the electric motor 41 is driven to increase the rotation speed and increase the propulsive force. On the other hand, if the propeller 51 is more efficient than the wind propulsion device 1, the wind propulsion device 1 is put into a natural start state, and the propeller 51 rotates to generate propulsive force. Note that it is also possible to drive both the electric motor 41 and the propeller 51 of the wind propulsion device 1.

[0068] For example, the rotational moment of the ship can be adjusted by arranging multiple windmill sails on the hull. For example, multiple windmill sails can be arranged at the front and rear of the hull, and the rotation speeds of the front and rear windmill sails can be made different. This makes it possible to generate a moment by making the force acting in the left and right directions of the ship different values ​​for the front and rear windmill sails.

[0069] <Rudder control section> 2, the wind propulsion system 100 further includes a steering control unit 125 that controls the steering so that the rudder is turned in the direction opposite to the inertial force that occurs in the opposite direction to the direction of changing the rotational speed of the blades 10A-10H when the rotation control unit 40 changes the rotational speed of the blades 10A-10H around the rotation axis. This works in conjunction with the rudder in anticipation of the torque acting on the hull 3 due to the inertial force, making it possible to prevent the hull 3 from rotating.

[0070] For example, when the rotation speed of the blades 10A-10H is changed by driving or braking, they may be linked to the rudder. For example, when the electric motor 41 is in a free state and the blades 10A-10H are rotating freely, they do not need to be linked to the rudder. For example, when braking or driving to change the rotation speed of the blades 10A-10H, a torque may act on the hull 3, causing the hull 3 to rotate. To prevent this, if only one wind propulsion device 1 is installed, it is advisable to link the rudder in anticipation of the torque acting on the hull 3 and prevent the hull 3 from rotating.

[0071] <Wind propulsion device> 1 and 2, a wind-powered propulsion device 1 is installed on a ship 2 and functions as a windmill sail that receives wind and generates propulsive force. In the example shown in the figures, one wind-powered propulsion device 1 is installed on the front part (bow) of the hull 3. Note that the installation manner of the wind-powered propulsion devices 1 (installation location, number of devices, etc.) is not limited to the above and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0072] <Windmill sail body> FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the wind turbine sail body 111 in the wind propulsion device 1 of the first embodiment. 4, the wind propulsion device 1 includes a wind turbine sail main body 111 that can rotate around a rotation axis RC (indicated by a dashed line in FIG. 4) that extends vertically from the hull 3. The wind turbine sail main body 111 includes an assembly 4 that is made up of a rotating body 20 that can rotate around the axis RC and a plurality of blades 10A to 10I that are each fixed to the rotating body 20.

[0073] Rotating body 20 has a frame portion 21 formed in an annular shape centered on rotation axis RC, and is configured to be rotatable about rotation axis RC. In the example shown in the figure, rotating body 20 is configured to include a lower frame portion 21 to which the lower ends of multiple blades 10A-10I are fixed, and an upper frame portion 21 to which the upper ends of multiple blades 10A-10I are fixed. Rotating body 20 is provided with a support structure 25 including a plurality of supports 26-28 that are connected to upper and lower frame portions 21 and that support multiple blades 10A-10I, respectively.

[0074] The multiple blades 10A-10I are each fixed to the frame 21 and are arranged so that imaginary lines connecting both ends of each blade are parallel in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis RC. The multiple blades 10A-10I include a central blade 10A, the imaginary line connecting both ends of which passes through the center of the frame 21. The multiple blades 10A-10I are arranged so that both ends are located on an imaginary circle centered on the rotation axis RC. The axial direction along the rotation axis RC is vertical.

[0075] When viewed vertically, the blades 10A-10I closest to the center of the frame 21 are arranged so that the length of the imaginary line is at least half the diameter of the frame 21. In the example shown in the figure, the blades 10A-10I closest to the center of the frame 21 are all but the outermost of the blades 10A-10I. The length of the imaginary line is the length from one end of the blade to the other, or the so-called chord length. The chord length of the outermost blade of the blades 10A-10I may be less than half the diameter of the frame 21 (a virtual circle centered on the rotation axis RC). The chord lengths of the blades 10A-10I are not limited to those described above and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0076] In the illustrated example, the frame 21 (a virtual circle centered on the rotation axis RC) is a perfect circle when viewed vertically. Note that the shape of the virtual circle when viewed vertically is not limited to the above, and it may be an ellipse, an oval, or a closed ring shape formed by connecting curves.

[0077] The support structure 25 includes, as viewed vertically, a central support 26 provided at the center of the frame 21, a pair of support columns 27 provided at both ends of an imaginary line, and horizontal support columns 28 provided so as to span both ends of the imaginary line. The central support column 26, the pair of support columns 27, and the upper and lower horizontal support columns 28 are each made of, for example, metal.

[0078] The rotor 20 further includes rod-shaped beams 22 (horizontal bars) whose opposite ends are connected to the inner periphery of the frame 21 and which connect the blades 10A to 10I together. In the example shown in the figure, the beams 22 pass through the center of the frame 21 and whose opposite ends are connected to the inner periphery of the frame 21. One beam 22 is provided on each of the upper and lower frame 21. Note that the form (number, arrangement, etc.) of the beams 22 is not limited to the above and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0079] In the illustrated example, the central pillar 26 is formed in a cylindrical shape. Each of the pair of support pillars 27 is formed in a cylindrical shape with a smaller diameter than the central pillar 26. The pair of support pillars 27 are formed in the same shape. The horizontal pillar 28 supporting the central blade 10A is formed in a diamond shape when viewed vertically. The horizontal pillars 28 supporting the blades 10B to 10I other than the central blade 10A are formed in an I-shape (linear) when viewed vertically. Note that the pillars supporting the multiple blades 10A to 10I including the central blade 10A may also be formed in an I-shape (linear) when viewed vertically. The form (number, configuration, shape, etc.) of the pillars supporting the multiple blades 10A to 10I including the central blade 10A is not limited to the above and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0080] The central wing 10A is provided so that an imaginary line connecting both ends passes through the center of the frame 21. In the example shown in the figure, the central wing 10A is made of cloth stretched over a central pillar 26, a pair of support pillars 27, and upper and lower horizontal pillars 28. The blades 10B to 10I other than the central wing 10A are also made of cloth stretched over the pair of support pillars 27 and upper and lower horizontal pillars 28. The blades 10B to 10I other than the central wing 10A may be made of cloth, with only the central wing 10A being made of FRP (resin). For example, at least one of the multiple blades 10A to 10I may be made of cloth, and the blades other than the cloth may be made of resin.

[0081] In the example of FIG. 4, the assembly 4 has one stage, but this is not limited to the above, and the number of stages of the assembly 4 can be changed according to design specifications. In the example of FIG. 1, a plurality of assemblies 4A to 4C (for example, three) are provided along the vertical direction. For example, when there are a plurality of assemblies 4, A and B, the rotators 20 of the assemblies 4A and 4B may be common. For example, the manner in which the rotators 20 are installed relative to the plurality of assemblies 4 can be changed according to design specifications. Furthermore, the assemblies 4A and 4B may have the same shape, or the rotators 20 may be bolted or welded.

[0082] The blades 10A-10I may be twisted such that a first imaginary line connecting both ends of each of the blades 10A-10I at a first position on the rotation axis RC (the dashed-dotted line shown in the figure) intersects with a second imaginary line connecting both ends of each of the blades 10A-10I at a second position on the rotation axis RC that is different from the first position. In other words, the blades 10A-10I may be twisted such that a cross section perpendicular to the vertical direction is the same at any position on the rotation axis. Note that the twisting manner (shape, etc.) of the blades is not limited to the above and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0083] <Action and effect> As explained above, the wind propulsion device 1 according to this embodiment is a wind propulsion device that is installed on a hull 2 ​​and receives wind to generate propulsive force. The wind propulsion device 1 has a frame 21 formed in an annular shape centered on a rotation axis RC, and is equipped with a rotor 20 that can rotate about the rotation axis RC, and a plurality of blades 10A-10I that are arranged so that imaginary lines connecting both ends of the rotor 20 are parallel in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis RC. The rotor 20 is equipped with a support structure 25 that includes a plurality of supports 26-28 that are connected to the frame 21 and that support each of the plurality of blades 10A-10I.

[0084] According to this configuration, the multiple blades 10A-10I are supported by the multiple pillars 26-28 of the pillar structure 25, which improves the rigidity of the wind propulsion device 1 compared to when the blades are supported only by the central pillar. Furthermore, the improved rigidity provides the following effects (1) and (2). (1) Strength is increased and stress on the components is reduced. (2) The natural frequency increases, making it less likely to resonate due to rotation.

[0085] Second Embodiment The following describes a wind-powered propulsion device 201 (wire type) according to the second embodiment. In the following description, parts having the same functions as those described in the first embodiment are given the same names and symbols, and specific descriptions of their functions are omitted.

[0086] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a wind-powered propulsion device 201 (wire type) according to the second embodiment. As shown in Fig. 5, in the wind propulsion device 201 of the second embodiment, a support structure 225 is connected to the frame 21 and includes a plurality of wires 227, 228 (tension structures) that support the plurality of blades 10A to 10I. When viewed vertically, the support structure 225 includes a central pillar 26 provided at the center of the frame 21, a pair of vertical wires 227 provided at both ends of an imaginary straight line, and a horizontal wire 228 provided so as to span both ends of the imaginary straight line. The pair of vertical wires 227 and the upper and lower horizontal wires 228 are each made of, for example, metal. The central blade 10A is formed of a cloth stretched over the central pillar 26, the pair of vertical wires 227, and the upper and lower horizontal wires 228. The blades 10B to 10I other than the central blade 10A are formed of a cloth stretched over the pair of vertical wires 227 and the upper and lower horizontal wires 228.

[0087] In the example of FIG. 5, the shape of the support structure 225, which is formed by combining the central pillar 26 and the horizontal wires 228, is formed into a Q shape when viewed vertically. The multiple wires 227, 228 are formed into linear shapes with a smaller diameter than the support pillar 27 of the first embodiment. The fabric of the central blade 10A is formed into a diamond shape when viewed vertically. The multiple wires 227, 228 may each penetrate a portion (edge) of the multiple blades 10A to 10I. Note that the configuration (number, configuration, shape, etc.) of the multiple wires 227, 228 that make up the support structure 225 is not limited to the above and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0088] The support structure 225 according to this embodiment includes a plurality of wires 227, 228 that are connected to the frame portion 21 and support the plurality of wings 10A to 10I, respectively. This configuration allows for a lighter weight and is more aerodynamically advantageous than when the plurality of blades 10A to 10I are supported by struts.

[0089] Third Embodiment The following describes a wind-powered propulsion device 301 (spoke type) according to the third embodiment. In the following description, parts having the same functions as those described in the first embodiment are given the same names and symbols, and specific descriptions of their functions will be omitted.

[0090] 6 is a perspective view of a wind-powered propulsion device 301 (spoke type) according to the third embodiment, in which the upper frame portion 21 is not shown. As shown in Figure 6, in the third embodiment of the wind propulsion device 301, the support structure 325 further includes a central pillar 26 provided at the center of the frame portion 21 when viewed from the axial direction along the rotation axis RC, and a plurality of spoke portions 328 extending radially from the central pillar 26 and connected to the frame portion 21.

[0091] In the example of FIG. 6, each of the multiple spokes 328 is formed in a cylindrical shape. Each of the multiple spokes 328 is formed in the same shape. The multiple spokes 328 are formed in a radial pattern, with multiple cylindrical shapes of the same length when viewed in the vertical direction, extending radially from the central column 26 at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. One end of each of the multiple spokes 328 is connected to the central column 26, and the other end is connected to the support column 27 via the frame portion 21. Note that the configuration (number, configuration, shape, connection relationship, etc.) of the multiple spokes 328 is not limited to the above and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0092] The support structure 325 of this embodiment further includes a central pillar 26 provided at the center of the frame portion 21 when viewed in the axial direction along the rotation axis RC, and a plurality of spoke portions 328 extending radially from the central pillar 26 and connected to the frame portion 21. This configuration improves rigidity compared to a case where there is no central pillar 26 and no spokes 328 (a completely cylindrical type).

[0093] <Fourth embodiment> A wind propulsion device 401 (inside-blade support type) according to the fourth embodiment will be described below. In the following description, parts having the same functions as those described in the first embodiment will be given the same names and symbols, and specific descriptions of their functions will be omitted.

[0094] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a wind-powered propulsion device 401 (inside-blade support type) according to the fourth embodiment. As shown in Figure 7, in the wind propulsion device 401 of the fourth embodiment, the support structure 425 further includes a central pillar 26 provided at the center of the frame portion 21 when viewed from the axial direction along the rotation axis RC, and a plurality of inner blade beam portions 429 extending radially outward from the central pillar 26, each of whose outer ends is connected to a plurality of support pillars 27, and each of which is provided inside a plurality of blades 10A to 10I.

[0095] In the example of FIG. 7 , the multiple inner-wing beam sections 429 are configured to include two beam sections that intersect each other midway while extending radially outward from the center column 26. One of the inner-wing beam sections 429 extends radially outward and vertically downward from the upper end of the center column 26 (the radially inner end of the upper horizontal column 28), and its outer end is connected to the radially outer end of the lower horizontal column 28 (the lower end of the strut 27 via the frame section 21). The other inner-wing beam section 429 extends radially outward and vertically upward from the lower end of the center column 26 (the radially inner end of the lower horizontal column 28), and its outer end is connected to the radially outer end of the upper horizontal column 28 (the upper end of the strut 27 via the frame section 21). Note that the configuration (number, configuration, shape, connection relationship, etc.) of the multiple inner-wing beam sections 429 is not limited to the above and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0096] The support structure 425 of this embodiment further includes a central pillar 26 provided at the center of the frame portion 21 when viewed in the axial direction along the rotation axis RC, and a plurality of inner blade beam portions 429 extending radially outward from the central pillar 26, each having its outer end connected to a plurality of support pillars 27, and provided inside each of the plurality of blades 10A to 10I. This configuration improves rigidity compared to a configuration without the central pillar 26 and the plurality of inner wing beam portions 429 (complete cylindrical type).

[0097] Fifth Embodiment A wind-powered propulsion device 501 (completely cylindrical type) according to the fifth embodiment will be described below. In the following description, parts having the same functions as those described in the first embodiment will be given the same names and symbols, and specific descriptions of their functions will be omitted.

[0098] Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a wind-powered propulsion device 501 (completely cylindrical type) according to the fifth embodiment. In Fig. 8, the upper frame portion 21 is not shown. As shown in Fig. 8, in the wind propulsion device 501 of the fifth embodiment, an internal space 525S that communicates in the axial direction along the rotation axis RC is formed inside the support structure 525. The multiple support columns 27 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the frame portion 21. The multiple support columns 27 and the frame portion 21 are provided so as to be located inside an imaginary cylinder centered on the rotation axis RC. The multiple blades 10A to 10I extend so as to cross the internal space 525S, and both ends of each blade are supported by the multiple support columns 27.

[0099] In the example of Fig. 8, no central pillar 26 is provided in the internal space 525S. The central blade 10A extending across the internal space 525S is formed in a diamond shape when viewed vertically. The blades 10B to 10I other than the central blade 10A are formed in an I-shape (straight line) when viewed vertically. Note that the configuration (number, configuration, shape, etc.) of the multiple blades 10A to 10I including the central blade 10A is not limited to the above and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0100] An internal space 525S that communicates in the axial direction along the rotation axis RC is formed inside the support structure 525 according to this embodiment. The multiple support columns 27 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the frame 21. The multiple support columns 27 and the frame 21 are provided so as to be located inside an imaginary cylinder centered on the rotation axis RC. The multiple blades 10A-10I extend across the internal space 525S, and both ends of each are supported by the multiple support columns 27. This configuration reduces manufacturing costs compared to when a central pillar 26 is provided (spoke type and in-wing support type).

[0101] Sixth Embodiment A wind propulsion device 601 (trapezoidal blade) according to the sixth embodiment will be described below. In the following description, parts having the same functions as those described in the first embodiment will be given the same names and symbols, and specific descriptions of their functions will be omitted.

[0102] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a wind-powered propulsion device 601 (trapezoidal blades) according to a sixth embodiment. In Fig. 9, the rotating body 20 having the frame portion 21 and the like are not shown. Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram of a trapezoidal support column of the wind-powered propulsion device 601 according to the sixth embodiment. In Fig. 10, the multiple blades 610A to 610G are not shown. Referring also to Figures 9 and 10, in the sixth embodiment of the wind propulsion device 601, of the multiple blades 610A to 610G, the axial ends of two blades that are arranged symmetrically with respect to a line including the rotation axis RC are arranged so as to form a trapezoid when viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line.

[0103] 9, the blades are twisted so that the positional relationship of the vertical ends of two blades (two blades 610B and 610G, 610C and 610F, and 610D and 610E other than central blade 610A) arranged symmetrically with respect to a line including rotation axis RC is not parallel when viewed perpendicular to the vertical line. Note that the configuration (number, shape, etc.) of the multiple blades 610A to 610G is not limited to the above and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0104] Rotating body 20 has a plurality of support columns 27 that are connected to frame portion 21 and support a plurality of blades 610A to 610G, respectively. When viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line, of the plurality of support columns 27, two on both sides of rotation axis RC are arranged along the legs of the trapezoid.

[0105] Figure 10 is an example of Figure 9 expressed two-dimensionally. Normal parallel blades have some twisting, but the blades are nearly parallel to each other. Trapezoidal blades are twisted parallel blades that are fixed at an angle as shown in Figure 10.

[0106] In the wind propulsion device 601 according to this embodiment, the axial ends of two of the multiple blades 610A to 610G that are arranged symmetrically with respect to a line including the rotation axis RC are arranged so as to form a trapezoid when viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line. This configuration improves rigidity compared to when the axial ends of the two blades arranged symmetrically with respect to an axis are arranged to form a parallelogram when viewed in a direction parallel to the imaginary line.

[0107] Rotating body 20 according to this embodiment has a plurality of support columns 27 that are connected to frame portion 21 and that respectively support a plurality of blades 610A to 610G. When viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line, of the plurality of support columns 27, two on both sides of rotation axis RC are provided along the legs of a trapezoid. This configuration improves rigidity compared to when the two outer support columns 27 are provided parallel to each other.

[0108] Seventh Embodiment The seventh embodiment of the wind-powered propulsion device 701 (divided model) will be described below. In the following description, parts having the same functions as those described in the first embodiment will be given the same names and symbols, and specific descriptions of their functions will be omitted.

[0109] Fig. 11 is a perspective view showing a divided model of the wind-powered propulsion device 701 of the seventh embodiment. Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing a subassembly 770 of the wind-powered propulsion device 701 of the seventh embodiment. 11 and 12, a wind-powered propulsion device 701 of the seventh embodiment includes assemblies 704A to 704C each made up of a rotating body 20 and a plurality of blades 710A to 710E. The assemblies 704A to 704C are arranged side by side in the circumferential or radial direction of the frame 21 and include a plurality of subassemblies 770 that are detachably connected to one another.

[0110] 11, each of the assemblies 704A to 704C includes two assemblies 770 that are arranged side by side in the circumferential and radial directions of the frame 12 and are detachably connected to each other. The two assemblies 770 are formed to have the same shape. In one assembly 704B, one of the assemblies 770 is not shown. Note that the configuration (number, shape, etc.) of the multiple assemblies 770 is not limited to the above and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0111] Assembly 770 includes upper frame member 771 and lower frame member 772, each of which is formed in a semicircular shape when viewed in the axial direction along rotation axis RC. The upper vertices of multiple wings 710A to 710E are connected to upper frame member 771, and the lower vertices are connected to lower frame member 772.

[0112] For example, the upper frame member 771 and the lower frame member 772 are each made of metal. The multiple wings 710A to 710E are each made of, for example, GFRP (Glass Fiber Reinforced Plastics). The upper frame member 771 and the lower frame member 772 have multiple grooves formed in opposing portions for fitting the wings 710A to 710E. The upper apexes of the multiple wings 710A to 710E are fitted into the grooves of the upper frame member 771, and the lower apexes of the multiple wings 710A to 710E are fitted into the grooves of the lower frame member 772. The wings 710A to 710E may be made of wood, other resins, or a composite material of wood and resin. The wings 710A to 710E may be fastened by bolts or welded. The aspects (materials, shapes, and connection relationships) of the upper frame member 771, the lower frame member 772, and the multiple wings 710A to 710E are not limited to those described above and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0113] The wind propulsion device 701 according to this embodiment includes assemblies 704A to 704C, each of which includes a rotor 20 and a plurality of blades 710A to 710E. The assemblies 704A to 704C are arranged side by side in the circumferential or radial direction of the frame 21, and include a plurality of subassemblies 770 that are detachably connected to one another. According to this configuration, the assemblies 704A to 704C can be separated into a plurality of subassemblies 770, which reduces transportation costs compared to when the assemblies cannot be separated.

[0114] Assembly 770 according to this embodiment includes upper frame member 771 and lower frame member 772, each of which is formed in a semicircular shape when viewed in the axial direction along rotation axis RC. The upper vertices of multiple wings 710A to 710E are connected to upper frame member 771, and the lower vertices are connected to lower frame member 772. According to this configuration, assembly 770 can be separated into upper frame member 771, lower frame member 772, and multiple wings 710A-710E, which reduces transportation costs compared to when assembly 770 cannot be separated. For example, by separating assembly 770, it can be transported by sea without preparing a dedicated ship.

[0115] Eighth Embodiment A wind-powered propulsion device 801 (semicircular stacked type) according to the eighth embodiment will be described below. In the following description, parts having the same functions as those described in the seventh embodiment will be given the same names and symbols, and specific descriptions of their functions will be omitted.

[0116] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a wind-powered propulsion device 801 (semicircular stacking type) of the eighth embodiment. 13, in a wind propulsion device 801 of the eighth embodiment, the multiple assemblies 870A, 870B each consist of two assemblies 870A, 870B formed in a semicircular shape when viewed in the axial direction along the rotation axis RC. A plurality of assemblies 804A to 804D are provided along the axial direction. The multiple assemblies 804A to 804D are stacked so that each pair of assemblies 870A, 870B is shifted in the circumferential direction and overlaps when viewed in the axial direction.

[0117] In the example of FIG. 13 , the center vane 810A is divided in the radial direction. One and the other of the two sub-assemblies 870A, 870B constituting the bottommost assembly 804A are stacked on top of one and the other of the sub-assemblies 870A, 870B constituting the second-lowest assembly 804B so that they are shifted in the circumferential direction and overlap when viewed from the axial direction. The multiple sub-assemblies 870A, 870B including the divided center vane 810A are joined so as to connect in a smooth aerodynamic curve. One of the sub-assemblies 870B in the second-lowest assembly 804B is not shown in the figure. Note that the configuration (number, shape, and connection relationship) of the multiple sub-assemblies 870A, 870B is not limited to the above and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0118] Each of the multiple assemblies 870A, 870B according to this embodiment is made up of two assemblies 870A, 870B each formed in a semicircular shape when viewed in the axial direction along the rotation axis RC. A plurality of assemblies 804A to 804D are provided along the axial direction. The multiple assemblies 804A to 804D are stacked such that each pair of assemblies 870A, 870B are shifted in the circumferential direction and overlap when viewed in the axial direction. According to this configuration, the assemblies 870A and 870B are less likely to separate than when the two assemblies 870A and 870B in each of the multiple assemblies 804A to 804D are stacked without being misaligned in the circumferential direction.

[0119] Ninth Embodiment A wind-powered propulsion device 901 (model using steel material) according to the ninth embodiment will be described below. In the following description, parts having the same functions as those described in the first embodiment will be given the same names and symbols, and specific descriptions of their functions will be omitted.

[0120] Fig. 14 is a perspective view showing a wind-powered propulsion device 901 (a model using steel materials) of the ninth embodiment. Fig. 15 is a perspective view showing a subassembly 970 (pillar type) of the wind-powered propulsion device 901 of the ninth embodiment. Referring to Figures 14 and 15 together, the multiple subassemblies 970 comprise an arc-shaped portion 971 that constitutes the frame portion 21 and is formed in an arc shape when viewed from the axial direction of the rotation axis RC, and multiple supports 927, 928 that are detachably connected to the arc-shaped portion 971.

[0121] In the example of Fig. 14, three assemblies 970 are provided per assembly. The arc-shaped portions 971 are provided by dividing the frame portion 21 of each assembly 970 into three in the circumferential direction. Six support columns 927, 928 are provided per assembly 970. The assembly 970 includes arc-shaped connecting members 972 that connect portions (central portions in the longitudinal direction) of the support columns 928 together. Note that the configuration (number, configuration, connection relationship) of the multiple assemblies 970 is not limited to the above and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0122] The multiple subassemblies 970 in this embodiment comprise an arc-shaped portion 971 that forms a frame and is formed in an arc shape when viewed from the axial direction of the rotation shaft, and multiple supports 927, 928 that are detachably connected to the arc-shaped portion 971. According to this configuration, the subassembly 970 can be separated into the arc-shaped portion 971 and the plurality of support columns 927, 928, and therefore the transportation costs can be reduced compared to when the subassembly cannot be separated.

[0123] Tenth Embodiment A wind propulsion device 1001 according to the tenth embodiment (Example 1 of vertical continuity) will be described below. In the following description, parts having the same functions as those described in the first embodiment will be given the same names and symbols, and specific descriptions of their functions will be omitted.

[0124] Fig. 16 is a schematic diagram of a wind-powered propulsion device 1001 of the tenth embodiment (example 1 of vertical continuity). Fig. 17 is a side view of multiple assemblies 1004A-1004D of the wind-powered propulsion device 1001 of the tenth embodiment. Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view of multiple blades 1010A-1010G of the wind-powered propulsion device 1001 of the tenth embodiment. 16 to 18, in the wind propulsion device 1001 of the tenth embodiment, of the plurality of blades 1010A-1010G, two blades that are arranged symmetrically with respect to a line including the rotation axis RC are arranged so that their axial ends along the rotation axis RC form a trapezoid when viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line. When viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line, the plurality of assemblies 1004A-1004D are arranged so that one axial end of each of the plurality of blades 1010B-1010G is connected to the other axial end of the blade 1010B-1010G that is shifted one position inward or outward around the rotation axis RC.

[0125] In the example of Figure 16, when viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line, the vertical upper ends of the two outer wings 1010B and 1010G, 1010C and 1010F that make up the lowest assembly 1004A are arranged to be connected to the vertical lower ends of the two inner wings 1010C and 1010F, 1010D and 1010E (wings shifted one position inward around the rotation axis RC) that make up the second-lowest assembly 1004B. Similarly, the vertical upper ends of the two outer blades 1010B and 1010G, 1010C and 1010F constituting the second-lowest assembly 1004B are connected to the vertical lower ends of the two inner blades 1010C and 1010F, 1010D and 1010E (the blades shifted inward by one blade about the rotation axis RC) constituting the third-lowest assembly 1004C. Similarly, the vertical upper ends of the two outer blades constituting the third-lowest assembly 1004C are connected to the vertical lower ends of the two inner blades constituting the fourth-lowest (top) assembly 1004D. Note that the configuration (number and connection relationship) of the multiple assemblies 1004A-1004D is not limited to the above and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0126] In the wind propulsion device 1001 according to this embodiment, of the plurality of blades 1010A-1010G, two blades 1010A-1010G are arranged symmetrically with respect to a line including the rotation axis RC, and are arranged so that their axial ends along the rotation axis RC form a trapezoid when viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line. When viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line, the plurality of assemblies 1004A-1004D are arranged so that one axial end of each of the plurality of blades 1010B-1010G is connected to the other axial end of the blade 1010B-1010G that is shifted one position inward or outward about the rotation axis RC. According to this configuration, the blades 1010B to 1010G of each of the assemblies 1004A to 1004D that are offset by one blade can be smoothly connected to each other, thereby preventing the airflow from being disturbed.

[0127] Eleventh Embodiment A wind-powered propulsion device 1101 according to the eleventh embodiment (example 2 of vertical continuity) will be described below. In the following description, parts having the same functions as those described in the tenth embodiment will be given the same names and symbols, and specific descriptions of their functions will be omitted.

[0128] Fig. 19 is a schematic diagram of a wind-powered propulsion device 1101 of the eleventh embodiment (example 2 of vertical continuity). Fig. 20 is a side view of a plurality of assemblies of the wind-powered propulsion device 1101 of the eleventh embodiment. 19 and 20, in a wind propulsion device 1101 of the eleventh embodiment, of the plurality of blades 1110A-1110G, two blades that are arranged symmetrically with respect to a line including the rotation axis RC are arranged so that their axial ends along the rotation axis RC form a trapezoid when viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line. When viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line, two of the plurality of assemblies 1104A-1104D that are adjacent in the axial direction are stacked so that the respective plurality of blades 1110B-1110G are along the legs of the trapezoids that face in opposite directions.

[0129] In the example of FIG. 19, when viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line, the bottommost assembly 1104A and the second-lowest assembly 1104B are stacked such that their respective multiple wings 1110B-1110G are aligned along the legs of the inverted trapezoids. Similarly, the second-lowest assembly 1104B and the third-lowest assembly 1104C are stacked such that their respective multiple wings 1110B-1110G are aligned along the legs of the inverted trapezoids. Similarly, the third-lowest assembly 1104C and the fourth-lowest (top) assembly 1104D are stacked such that their respective multiple wings are aligned along the legs of the inverted trapezoids. Note that the configuration (number and connection relationship) of the multiple assemblies 1104A-1104D is not limited to the above and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0130] In the wind propulsion device 1101 according to this embodiment, of the multiple blades 1110A-1110G, two blades are arranged symmetrically with respect to a line including the rotation axis RC, and the axial ends along the rotation axis RC of these two blades are arranged so as to form a trapezoid when viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line. When viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line, two axially adjacent ones of the multiple assemblies 1104A-1104D are stacked so that the multiple blades 1110B-1110G of each blade are aligned along the legs of the trapezoids facing in opposite directions. According to this configuration, two of the plurality of blades 1110B to 1110G that are adjacent to each other in the axial direction among the plurality of assemblies 1104A to 1104D are provided in a zigzag pattern, so that the same blades 1110B to 1110G can be connected to each other.

[0131] <Twelfth embodiment> A wind propulsion device 1201 (combined type of support structure and central blade) according to the twelfth embodiment will be described below. In the following description, parts having the same functions as those described in the first embodiment will be given the same names and symbols, and specific descriptions of their functions will be omitted.

[0132] Fig. 21 is a side view of a wind-powered propulsion device 1201 (combination type of a support structure and a central blade) according to the twelfth embodiment. Fig. 22 is a perspective view of the assembly of the wind-powered propulsion device 1201 according to the twelfth embodiment. 21 and 22, the wind propulsion device 1201 of the twelfth embodiment comprises a support structure 1225 including a plurality of support pillars 27 connected to the frame portion 21, and a central wing 1210A in which an imaginary line connecting both ends passes through the center of the frame portion 21.

[0133] 21 and 22, blades other than the central blade 1210A are not shown. In the example of Fig. 21, five stages of assemblies 1204A to 1204E are shown, but the number of stages of the assembly is not limited to the above and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0134] The support structure 1225 includes a pair of support columns 27 provided at both ends of an imaginary line when viewed vertically, and a horizontal column 28 provided so as to span both ends of the imaginary line. The central wing 1210A has a hollow structure. The central wing 1210A may have a solid structure. The upper and lower frame portions 21 are each made of, for example, metal. The central wing 1210A is made of, for example, GFRP (Glass Fiber Reinforced Plastics). The upper and lower frame portions 21 have multiple grooves formed in their opposing portions for fitting the central wing 1210A. The apex of the upper part of the central wing 1210A is fitted into the groove of the upper frame portion 21, and the apex of the lower part is fitted into the groove of the lower frame portion 21. The central wing 1210A may be fastened with bolts or welded. The aspects (materials, shapes, connection relationships) of the upper and lower frame portions 21 and the central blade 1210A are not limited to those described above, and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0135] The wind propulsion device 1201 according to this embodiment comprises a support structure 1225 including a plurality of support columns 27 connected to the frame 21, and a central wing 1210A in which an imaginary line connecting both ends passes through the center of the frame 21. This configuration reduces manufacturing costs compared to when a central pillar is provided inside the frame portion 21.

[0136] <Thirteenth embodiment> A wind-powered propulsion device 1301 (multiple-tiered stacked type) according to the thirteenth embodiment will be described below. In the following description, parts having the same functions as those described in the first embodiment will be given the same names and symbols, and specific descriptions of their functions will be omitted.

[0137] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a wind-powered propulsion device 1301 according to the thirteenth embodiment. As shown in Fig. 23, a wind propulsion device 1301 of the thirteenth embodiment includes an assembly 1304 made up of a rotor and multiple blades. A plurality of assemblies 1304 are provided along the axial direction of the rotation axis RC. If the number of assemblies 1304 is N and M is a natural number, the assemblies 1304 are arranged with a stagger of 180 × M / N degrees from each other. The assemblies 1304 may be stacked vertically so that the height of the wind turbine sail body 1311 is, for example, 30 m or more.

[0138] 23, five assemblies 1304A to 1304E out of the multiple assemblies 1304 are arranged with a 36-degree offset from one another. The five assemblies 1304A to 1304E are stacked vertically to a height of, for example, about 10 m. Note that the configuration of the multiple assemblies (number, arrangement, etc.) is not limited to the above and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0139] An end plate 1306 is provided at the top of the wind turbine sail main body 1311. The outer shape of the end plate 1306 may be a circle that is larger than the outermost shape of the wind turbine sail main body 1311 when viewed vertically. The end plate 1306 may be bolted or welded to the upper frame part 21 of the uppermost assembly 1304 of the wind turbine sail main body 1311. By providing the end plate 1306 at the top of the wind turbine sail main body 1311, lift can be increased.

[0140] The wind propulsion device 1301 according to this embodiment includes an assembly 1304 made up of a rotor and multiple blades. A plurality of assemblies 1304 are provided along the axial direction of the rotation axis RC. If the number of assemblies 1304 is N and M is a natural number, the assemblies 1304 are arranged with a stagger of 180×M / N degrees from each other. This configuration reduces the dependency of the propulsive force obtained from the wind on the rotation angle. Also, since the frame portion 21 acts as a node, local buckling can be suppressed.

[0141] <Modification> The technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0142] Fig. 24 is a schematic diagram of a wind-powered propulsion device 1401A of a first modified example, and Fig. 25 is a schematic diagram of a wind-powered propulsion device 1401B of a second modified example. 24 and 25, the wind propulsion device 1401A, 1401B may include a plurality of assemblies whose diameters decrease vertically upward. In the example of FIG. 24, the wind propulsion device 1401A includes a first assembly 1404A provided at the bottom, a second assembly 1404B provided at the second bottom and having a smaller diameter than the first assembly 1404A, and a third assembly 1404C provided at the top and having a smaller diameter than the second assembly 1404B. For example, the lower part (first assembly 1404A) of the wind propulsion device 1401A may include a metal (e.g., steel) support (steel pipe) that is thicker than the support pillars constituting the other assemblies 1404B, 1404C. For example, the middle part (second assembly 1404B) of the wind propulsion device 1401A may include a steel support (steel pipe) that is thinner than the support pillars constituting the first assembly 1404A. For example, the upper part (third assembly 1404C) of the wind-powered propulsion device 1401A may include a metal (for example, aluminum) support (aluminum pipe) that is lighter than the support pillars that make up the other assemblies 1404A and 1404B.

[0143] 25, in the wind-powered propulsion device 1401B, the shape of the multiple assemblies stacked vertically is formed into a tapered shape that becomes thinner as it goes up in the vertical direction. Note that the form (number, shape, material, etc.) of the multiple assemblies that make up the wind-powered propulsion devices 1401A and 1401B is not limited to the above and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0144] Fig. 26 is a schematic diagram of a wind-powered propulsion device 1501 (model using steel material) of a third modified example. In Fig. 26, blades are not shown. As shown in FIG. 26 , the wind-powered propulsion device 1501 includes a support structure 1525 including multiple support columns 1527, 1528 connected to the frame 21. In this case, the rigidity of the wind-powered propulsion device 1501 can be maintained even without providing a central column 26 for the purpose of weight reduction. In the example of FIG. 26 , a 12-tiered assembly 1504 is shown, but the number of tiers of the assembly can be changed according to design specifications. The support structure 1525 may include multiple metal (e.g., steel) support columns 1527 (steel pipes) extending diagonally across the vertical direction and multiple metal (e.g., steel) support columns 1528 (steel pipes) extending parallel to the vertical direction. For example, the wind-powered propulsion device 1501 may be configured by vertically stacking multiple assemblies 1504 having the same support structure 1525. The multiple assemblies 1504 may be arranged offset by a predetermined angle so that the ends of the respective supports 1527, 1528 are connected via the frame portion 21 or the like. The supports 1527, 1528 may be fastened with bolts or welded. Note that the aspects of the supports 1527, 1528 (material, shape, connection relationship) are not limited to those described above and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0145] Fig. 27 is a schematic diagram of a wind-powered propulsion device 1601 (another example of a complete cylindrical type) according to a fourth modified example. In Fig. 27, the blades are not shown. As shown in FIG. 27 , in the wind propulsion device 1601, an internal space 1625S is formed inside the support structure 1625, which is axially connected along the rotation axis RC. The multiple support columns 1627 are arranged at equal intervals in the radial direction of the frame 21. The multiple support columns 1627 and the frame 21 are arranged so as to be located within an imaginary cylinder centered on the rotation axis RC. Multiple blades (not shown) extend across the internal space 1625S, and both ends of each blade are supported by the multiple support columns 1627. In this case, arranging the multiple support columns 1627 at equal intervals in the radial direction rather than the circumferential direction improves aerodynamic characteristics. In the example of FIG. 27 , a central column 26 is not provided in the internal space 1625S. Furthermore, one radial side of the multiple support columns 1627 arranged at equal intervals in the radial direction of the frame 21 is shown, and the other radial side is not shown. At least a portion of each of the plurality of wings may be provided so as to overlap with each of the plurality of support columns 1627 when viewed in the vertical direction.

[0146] Below, we will explain other examples (modifications) of moving bodies on which the wind propulsion devices of the above-mentioned embodiments can be installed. Ship sails, airplane wings, rotor blades, windmill blades, etc. are all similar in that they generate lift, and the present invention, which has the effect of generating large lift (Magnus force) while also generating electricity, can be applied. For example, the configurations of the above-mentioned embodiments can also be applied to moving bodies that move at high speeds (such as high-speed boats and automobiles). Furthermore, wind propulsion devices may be applied to the wings of flying bodies, or to airplanes, drones, flying cars, etc. Note that railways may also be used if water resistance is to be ignored. For example, wind propulsion devices may be installed on railways that run on low-utilization local lines. The mechanism of windmill sails is not limited to wind, but can also be applied to other fluids. For example, electricity can be generated by moving a boat across an ocean current (ocean current power generation). Ocean currents are slow, but they are denser than air. The Kuroshio Current has a speed of about 2 meters per second, but considering that it is 1,000 times denser than air, this is equivalent to a wind blowing at 20 meters per second. It is difficult to transmit electricity to ships, and there is a limit to how much electricity can be stored. Therefore, factories that use a lot of electricity can be built inside the ship (factory ships). Examples include hydrogen production and electrolytic aluminum refining. In this case, electricity can be transported directly by ship to the destination where it is needed. For example, a wind-powered propulsion device may be installed in a railway container. In this case, power can be supplied to refrigerated containers and the like, eliminating the need to supply electricity from a pantograph. In addition, the device can be electrically isolated from the railway, reducing the risk of accidents. It can also be used as a power source for the braking devices of freight cars. Similarly, wind-powered propulsion devices may be installed in truck containers, shipping containers, and the like.

[0147] Processing may be performed by recording a program for realizing the functions of the control unit according to the embodiment described above on a computer-readable recording medium, and reading and executing the program recorded on this recording medium into a computer system. It should be noted that the term "computer system" as used herein may include an operating system (OS) or hardware such as peripheral devices. In addition, "computer-readable recording medium" refers to writable non-volatile memory such as a flexible disk, optical magnetic disk, ROM (Read Only Memory), flash memory, etc., portable media such as a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), and storage devices such as a hard disk built into a computer system.

[0148] Furthermore, the term "computer-readable recording medium" also includes a storage medium that stores a program for a certain period of time, such as a volatile memory (e.g., DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory)) inside an information processing device or a client computer system when the program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. The above program may be transmitted from a computer system storing the program in a storage device or the like to another computer system via a transmission medium or by transmission waves in the transmission medium. Here, the "transmission medium" that transmits the program refers to a medium that has the function of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) such as the Internet or a communication line (communication line) such as a telephone line. The above program may also be a program for realizing some of the above functions. Furthermore, the above program may be a so-called differential file (differential program) that can realize the above functions in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system.

[0149] In addition, the components in the above-described embodiment may be replaced with well-known components without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Also, the above-described modifications may be combined. Among the embodiments disclosed in this specification, those that are comprised of multiple objects may be integrated, and conversely, those that are comprised of a single object may be separated into multiple objects. Regardless of whether they are integrated, it is sufficient that they are configured to achieve the object of the invention. Among the embodiments disclosed in this specification, those in which multiple functions are provided in a distributed manner may have some or all of the multiple functions integrated together, and conversely, those in which multiple functions are provided in a distributed manner may have some or all of the multiple functions integrated together. Regardless of whether the functions are integrated or distributed, it is sufficient that the configuration can achieve the object of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0150] 1,201,301,401,501,601,701,801,901,1001,1101,1201,1301,1401A,1401B,1501,1601...Wind propulsion device, 2...Ship (mobile object), 4,4A~4C,704A~ 704C,804A~804D,1004A~1004D,1104A~1104D,1204A~1204E,1304A~1304E,1404A~1404C,1504...Assembly, 10A~10I,610A~610I,710A ~710E, 810A, 1010A~1010G, 1110A~1110G, 1210A...Wing, 20...Rotating body, 21...Frame, 25, 225, 325, 425, 525, 1525, 1625...Support structure, 26...Center column, 27, 28, 927, 928, 1527, 1528, 1627...Support, 328...Spoke section, 429...Wing inner beam section, 525S, 1625S...Internal space, 770, 870A, 870B, 970...Subassembly, 771...Upper frame member, 772...Lower frame member, RC...Rotating shaft

Claims

1. A wind-powered propulsion device that is installed on a moving body and receives wind to generate propulsive force, a rotating body having a frame portion formed in an annular shape centered on a rotation axis extending in a vertical direction, the rotating body being rotatable about the rotation axis; a plurality of blades arranged so that imaginary lines connecting both ends of each blade are parallel in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis; the rotating body includes a support structure including a plurality of support columns connected to the frame portion and supporting the plurality of blades, respectively. Wind propulsion device.

2. The support structure, as viewed from an axial direction along the rotation axis, a central pillar provided at the center of the frame; and a plurality of spokes extending radially from the central pillar and connected to the frame.

2. A wind-powered propulsion device according to claim 1.

3. The support structure, as viewed from an axial direction along the rotation axis, a central pillar provided at the center of the frame; a plurality of inner wing beam portions extending radially outward from the central pillar, each outer end of which is connected to the plurality of struts, and each provided inside each of the plurality of blades; 2. A wind-powered propulsion device according to claim 1.

4. an internal space communicating in an axial direction along the rotation axis is formed inside the support structure, The plurality of support columns are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the frame portion, the plurality of support columns and the frame portion are provided so as to be positioned within an imaginary cylinder centered on the rotation axis, The plurality of wings extend across the interior space, and both ends of each of the wings are supported by the plurality of struts.

2. A wind-powered propulsion device according to claim 1.

5. an internal space communicating in an axial direction along the rotation axis is formed inside the support structure, The plurality of support columns are arranged at equal intervals in the radial direction of the frame portion, the plurality of support columns and the frame portion are provided so as to be positioned within an imaginary cylinder centered on the rotation axis, The plurality of wings extend across the interior space, and both ends of each of the wings are supported by the plurality of struts.

2. A wind-powered propulsion device according to claim 1.

6. A wind-powered propulsion device that is installed on a moving body and receives wind to generate propulsive force, a rotating body having a frame portion formed in an annular shape centered on a rotation axis extending in a vertical direction, the rotating body being rotatable about the rotation axis; a plurality of blades arranged so that imaginary lines connecting both ends of each blade are parallel in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis; two of the plurality of blades that are arranged symmetrically with respect to a line including the rotation axis are arranged so that end portions in an axial direction along the rotation axis form a trapezoid when viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line; Wind propulsion device.

7. the rotor further includes a plurality of struts connected to the frame and supporting the plurality of blades, respectively; When viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary straight line, two of the plurality of support columns on both outer sides of the rotation axis are provided along legs of a trapezoid.

7. A wind-powered propulsion device according to claim 6.

8. an assembly including the rotor and the plurality of blades; the assembly includes a plurality of subassemblies arranged side by side in a circumferential direction or a radial direction of the frame portion and detachably connected to each other; A wind-powered propulsion device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. the assembly includes an upper frame member and a lower frame member each formed in a semicircular shape when viewed in an axial direction along the rotation axis, The plurality of wings have upper vertices connected to the upper frame member and lower vertices connected to the lower frame member.

9. A wind-powered propulsion device according to claim 8.

10. the plurality of assemblies each include two assemblies formed in a semicircular shape when viewed in an axial direction along the rotation axis, a plurality of the assemblies are provided along the axial direction, the plurality of assemblies are stacked such that two subassemblies are displaced in the circumferential direction and overlap each other when viewed from the axial direction; 9. A wind-powered propulsion device according to claim 8.

11. The plurality of subassemblies are an arc-shaped portion that constitutes the frame portion and is formed in an arc shape when viewed in the axial direction of the rotation shaft; a plurality of support columns detachably connected to the arc-shaped portion; 9. A wind-powered propulsion device according to claim 8.

12. an assembly including the rotor and the plurality of blades; a plurality of the assemblies are provided along the axial direction of the rotation shaft, When the number of the plurality of assemblies is N and M is a natural number, the plurality of assemblies are arranged with a shift of 180×M / N degrees from each other. A wind-powered propulsion device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

13. two of the plurality of blades that are arranged symmetrically with respect to a line including the rotation axis are arranged such that end portions in an axial direction along the rotation axis form a trapezoid when viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line, When viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line, the plurality of assemblies are provided such that one end of each of the plurality of blades in the axial direction is connected to the other end of the blade in the axial direction that is shifted by one blade inward or outward around the rotation axis.

13. A wind-powered propulsion device according to claim 12.

14. two of the plurality of blades that are arranged symmetrically with respect to a line including the rotation axis are arranged such that end portions in an axial direction along the rotation axis form a trapezoid when viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line, When viewed from a direction parallel to the imaginary line, two of the plurality of assemblies adjacent to each other in the axial direction are stacked such that the plurality of blades of each assemblies are aligned along legs of trapezoids facing inversely.

13. A wind-powered propulsion device according to claim 12.

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