Improvements in or relating to wind propulsion apparatus

Abstract

A wind propulsion apparatus for a vessel, the apparatus comprising: a base; a substantially rigid wind propulsion device supported by the base and rotatable about at least one axis of the base; a positioning apparatus operable to move the wind propulsion device between a deployed position and a stowed position; and a rotation device operable to rotate the wind propulsion device about the at least one axis of rotation.

Description

[0001] Improvements in or relating to wind propulsion apparatus

[0002] Field of the invention

[0003] The invention relates to a wind propulsion apparatus and, particularly but not exclusively, to a wind propulsion apparatus for a vessel, and wing sails that can be stowed when not in use, and deployed to harness the wind to reduce fuel consumption of the vessel. The invention also relates to a vessel comprising the apparatus, and methods of use and installation of the apparatus.

[0004] Background to the invention

[0005] Vessels, such as ships, are responsible for a significant amount of carbon emissions due to fossil fuel consumption.

[0006] Wind propulsion apparatus, such as sails, wing sails, and the like, have been used on vessels for propulsion, and such sails are known as an option to reduce fuel consumption.

[0007] Traditional sails, used for centuries and made of textile material, are not considered rigid sails. In recent times, rigid sails such as wing sails have been explored for use on vessels.

[0008] The inventors have appreciated the disadvantages in current wind propulsion technology for vessels. of the invention

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a wind propulsion apparatus for a vessel, the apparatus comprising: a base; a substantially rigid wind propulsion device supported by the base and rotatable about at least one axis of the base; a positioning apparatus operable to move the wind propulsion device between a deployed position and a stowed position; and a rotation device operable to rotate the wind propulsion device about the at least one axis of rotation.

[0010] The vessel may be a boat, ship, freight vessel, ocean-going vessel, container ship, cruise ship, or any suitable marine vessel.

[0011] The wind propulsion apparatus may be configured for installation on a body portion, hull, deck, or any other suitable location of the vessel. The base may be configured for mounting to the vessel.

[0012] The wind propulsion device may have a height of up to approximately 40 metres, optionally up to 45 metres, optionally up to 50 metres, and / or a width of up to approximately 5 metres, optionally up to approximately, 7.5 metres, optionally up to approximately, 8.5 metres, optionally up to approximately 10 metres, and / or a depth of up to approximately 5 metres, when deployed. The wind propulsion device may have a height of up to 10 metres, optionally up to 5 metres, optionally up to 2.5 metres when in the stowed position. The wind propulsion device may be arranged above the deck, or spaced apart from the deck when in the stowed position. The wind propulsion apparatus may be configured, in use, to harness wind energy to apply force(s) to the vessel, as is known in the field of sailing.

[0013] The wind propulsion device may include one or more substantially rigid aerofoils. In this example, and as will be understood from a reading of the specification, the wind propulsion device is of the rigid type because it is formed of rigid aerofoil(s), but the aerofoils are movable.

[0014] The wind propulsion device may comprise a yaw axis, roll axis, and / or pitch axis. The axes may be orthogonal to one another.

[0015] The at least one axis of rotation may be a yaw axis of the base. The yaw axis of the base may be colinear with the yaw axis of the wind propulsion device.

[0016] The wind propulsion device may comprise a first end and a second end. The first end and the second end of the wind propulsion device may be located at opposite ends. The first end and the second end may be separated along the yaw axis of the wind propulsion device. The first end may be located at the top of the wind propulsion device. The second end may be located at the bottom of the wind propulsion device.

[0017] The wind propulsion device may comprise a third end and a fourth end. The third end and the fourth end of the wind propulsion device may be located at opposite ends. The third end may be a fore end and the fourth end may be an aft end. The third end and the fourth end may be separated along the roll axis of the wind propulsion device. The third end of the wind propulsion device may be located at the front, or fore of the wind propulsion device. The fourth end of the wind propulsion device may be located at the back, or aft, of the wind propulsion device. The wind propulsion device may comprise one or more wind propulsion elements. The wind propulsion element(s) may be aerofoils. The wind propulsion elements may be substantially rigid.

[0018] The wind propulsion element(s) may comprise at least one fore element. The wind propulsion element(s) may comprise at least one aft element. The at least one aft element may be supported at least in part by the at least one fore element, optionally supported only by the fore element.

[0019] The at least one fore element may be located at, proximal to, or adjacent to the front, or fore of the wind propulsion device. The fore element may be located at, proximal to, or adjacent to the third end of the wind propulsion device. The at least one aft element may be located at, proximal to, or adjacent to the back, or aft, of the wind propulsion device. The aft element may be located at, proximal to, or adjacent to the fourth end of the wind propulsion device. The at least one aft element may be axially offset from the at least one fore element along at least one axis of the wind propulsion device. The axis may be the roll axis.

[0020] The wind propulsion device may be, or may include a sail element. The one or more wind propulsion elements may be sail element(s). The sail element(s) may be substantially rigid. The fore element may be a fore sail element. The aft element may be an aft sail element. The sail element(s) may be a wingsail, or a twin-skin sail, or a double skin sail, or the like.

[0021] The one or more wind propulsion elements may be elongate members, which may be elongate in the direction of the at least one axis of rotation, or the yaw axis, of the wind propulsion device. The one or more wind propulsion elements may have a substantially cylindrical shape, teardrop-based cylindrical shape, or a substantially ellipse-based cylindrical shape, or any suitable shape.

[0022] The, or each wind propulsion element may have a top end, a bottom end, a fore end, and an aft end.

[0023] The fore element, and / or the aft element may comprise a top end and a bottom end. The top end and the bottom end of the fore element, and / or the aft element may be located at opposite ends. The top end and the bottom end of the fore element, and / or the aft element may be separated along the yaw axis of the wind propulsion device. The top end of the fore element may be located proximal to, or adjacent to the first end of the wind propulsion device. The top end of the aft element may be located proximal to, or adjacent to the first end of the wind propulsion device. The bottom end of the fore element may be located proximal to, or adjacent to the second end of the wind propulsion device. The bottom end of the aft element may be located proximal to, or adjacent to the second end of the wind propulsion device.

[0024] The fore element, and / or the aft element may comprise a fore end and an aft end. The fore end and the aft end of the fore element, and / or the aft element may be located at opposite ends. The fore end and the aft end of the fore element, and / or the aft element may be separated along the roll axis of the wind propulsion device. The fore end of the fore element may be located proximal to, or adjacent to the third end of the wind propulsion device. The aft end of the fore element may be located proximal to, or adjacent to the fore end of the aft element. The aft end of the aft element may be located proximal to, or adjacent to the fourth end of the wind propulsion device. The one or more wind propulsion elements may have a substantially tapered shape. The direction of the taper may be along the roll axis of the wind propulsion device. The one or more wind propulsion elements may have a variable depth from the fore end to the aft end. The taper may be from the fore end to the aft end.

[0025] The fore element may comprise one or more, or a plurality of aerofoils. The aft element may comprise one or more, or a plurality of aerofoils.

[0026] The, or each wind propulsion element may have a leading edge at the fore end thereof and a trailing edge at the aft end thereof. The, or each wind propulsion element may have a camber line between fore and aft. The, or each wind propulsion element may include a plurality of major surfaces and, in the deployed position, the wind propulsion device may be arranged such that the major surfaces are substantially vertical.

[0027] The one or more wind propulsion elements may be made of one or more metals, one or more alloys, one or more composite materials, or a combination thereof. At least a portion of the, or each wind propulsion element may be made of a substantially recycled material, or a substantially recyclable material. The one or more metals may be, or may comprise aluminium. The one or more alloys may be or may comprise an aluminium alloy. The one or more composite materials may include a fibre-based composite, a glass-based composite, a glass-fibre based composite, or the like. The one or more wind propulsion elements may be made substantially of at least one of: aluminium, aluminium alloy, composite, and glass fibre composite. The one or more wind propulsion elements may be substantially hollow. The, or each wind propulsion element may comprise one or more reinforcing members. The reinforcing member(s) may be located inside the wind propulsion element. The reinforcing member(s) may be configured to provide increased rigidity, or support to the wind propulsion element. The reinforcing member(s) may be a spar, rib, bar, or the like, or a combination thereof.

[0028] One, some, or all of the wind propulsion elements may be modular. In this example, a modular wind propulsion element is formed of a plurality of modular wind propulsion elements. The plurality of modular elements of one, some or all of the wind propulsion elements may be arranged in sequence along at least one axis of the wind propulsion device, optionally the yaw axis thereof. The modular elements may be arranged such that each module is adjacent to at least one other module. Each modular element may be attached to the adjacent modular element.

[0029] The fore element, and / or the aft element may be modular. The fore element may comprise a plurality of fore modular elements. The aft element may comprise a plurality of aft modular elements. The plurality of fore modular elements may be arranged in sequence along at least one axis of the wind propulsion device, optionally the yaw axis thereof. The plurality of aft modular elements may be arranged in sequence along at least one axis of the wind propulsion device, optionally the yaw axis thereof. The fore modular elements may be arranged such that each module is adjacent to at least one other module. The aft modular elements may be arranged such that each module is adjacent to at least one other module. Each fore modular element may be attached to the adjacent fore modular element. Each aft modular element may be attached to the adjacent aft modular element. Each modular element may be adapted to be reversibly attachable to its wind propulsion element. Each fore modular element may be adapted to be reversibly attachable to the fore element. Each aft modular element may be reversibly attachable to the aft element.

[0030] The wind propulsion device, and / or the one or more wind propulsion elements may include one or more cover members arranged to cover at least a part thereof. The fore element may comprise one or more cover members. The aft element may comprise one or more cover members. The cover member(s) may be configured to cover at least a portion of an end of the fore element. The fore cover member(s) may be configured to cover at least a portion of an end of the fore element. The aft cover member(s) may be configured to cover at least a portion of an end of the aft element. The one or more cover members may include capping members, plug members, sealing members, panel members, or the like.

[0031] The one or more cover members may be configured to improve the aerodynamic performance of the wind propulsion device. The one or more cover members may be curved and / or planar members. The one or more cover members may have a substantially smooth exterior configured to reduce drag. The one or more cover members may be fairings.

[0032] The one or more cover members may be made of one or more metals, one or more alloys, one or more composite materials, or a combination thereof. The one or more cover members may be made of a substantially recycled material, or a substantially recyclable material. The one or more metals may be, or may comprise aluminium. The one or more alloys may be or may comprise an aluminium alloy. The one or more cover members may be made substantially of one or more composite materials. The one or more composite materials may include at least one of: a fibre-based composite, a glass-based composite, and a glass-fibre based composite, or the like. The one or more cover members may be made substantially of at least one of: aluminium, aluminium alloy, composite, and glass fibre composite. The one or more cover members may comprise or may be laminated members.

[0033] The one or more cover members may be configured to be releasably connectable to at least one wind propulsion element. The, or each cover member may comprise a connection device, which may include fastener(s), releasable connector(s), mechanical fastener(s), or rivet(s), or the like.

[0034] One or more wind propulsion elements may be pivotably connected to one or more of the other wind propulsion elements. At least one aft element may be pivotably connected to at least one fore element. The fore element may be adjacent the aft element, or there may be a gap therebetween. In some examples, there may be one or more further wind propulsion elements, or other components, between the fore and aft elements.

[0035] The wind propulsion device may comprise a pivot mechanism for pivoting the pivotably connected wind propulsion element(s). The pivot mechanism may be configured for pivoting about at least one pivoting axis, which may be a first pivot axis. The pivoting axis may be collinear or parallel with an axis of the wind propulsion device, optionally the yaw axis thereof. The pivot mechanism may, at least in part, connect the wind propulsion elements together. The pivot mechanism may directly connect the wind propulsion elements together. The pivot mechanism may be configured to provide support to one or more of the wind propulsion elements, which may be the aft element. The pivot mechanism may be configured to connect the fore element and the aft element, which may be a direct connection. The pivot mechanism may be configured to connect one or more fore modular elements to one or more aft modular elements.

[0036] The pivot mechanism may connect the aft end, or trailing edge of the fore element to the fore end, or leading edge of the aft element. The pivot mechanism may connect the one or more aft ends, or trailing edges of the one or more fore modular elements to the one or more fore ends, or leading edges of the one or more aft modular elements.

[0037] The pivot mechanism may include a fore element connecting portion, and / or an aft element connecting portion.

[0038] The pivot mechanism may be operable to pivot one or more wind propulsion elements between a first pivot position and a second pivot position. The pivot mechanism may be operable to pivot one or more wind propulsion elements between the first pivot position and the second pivot position about the at least one pivot axis. The pivot mechanism may be operable to pivot the aft element about the fore element or the fore element about the aft element.

[0039] The pivot mechanism may be configured such that, in at least some positions, the leading edge of the aft element extends beyond the trailing edge of the fore element along an axis of the wind propulsion device, optionally the roll axis thereof. The pivot mechanism may be configured to extend the leading edge of the aft element in this way between the first pivot position and a first intermediate pivot position, and / or between the second pivot position and a second intermediate pivot position. The pivot mechanism may be operable to space apart, or increase the spacing between the leading edge of one wind propulsion element from the trailing edge of another wind propulsion element, optionally the fore and aft elements, to enable or increase an air-flow passage therebetween.

[0040] The pivot mechanism may include one or more, or a plurality of pivot members.

[0041] The, or each pivot member may comprise a body portion. The, or each body portion may extend between the fore connection portion and aft connection portion. The, or each body portion may extend along an axis, optionally the roll axis, of the wind propulsion device. The, or each body portion may be cranked to enable the pivot mechanism to extend the leading edge of the aft element beyond the trailing edge of the fore element as described herein. The crank may be in the direction of an axis, optionally the pitch axis, of the wind propulsion device. The cranked body portion may be L-shaped with a major and minor portion. The minor portion may be proximal to the fore element and the major portion proximal to the aft element. The, or each body portion may be substantially asymmetric in the yaw-roll plane of the wind propulsion device. The, or each pivot member may hingedly-connect the aft element to the fore element, which may be an offset hinged connection.

[0042] The pivot mechanism may include a plurality of pivot members spaced apart from one another, or distributed along an axis, optionally the yaw axis, of the wind propulsion device. A pivot member may be located at, or adjacent to, at least one of: the first end, the second end, a mid region, an upper mid region, a lower mid region, an upper region, and / or a lower region, of the wind propulsion device. A pivot member may be located at, or adjacent to, at least one of: the top end, the bottom end, a mid region, an upper mid region, a lower mid region, an upper region, and / or a lower region, of the fore element and / or aft element.

[0043] The pivot axis may be substantially parallel to the yaw axis of the wind propulsion device. The pivot axis may be substantially parallel to or collinear with the yaw axis of the base.

[0044] The wind propulsion device may comprise a further pivot mechanism for pivoting at least one wind propulsion element about a second pivot axis. The further pivot mechanism may be part of the above pivot mechanism, or may be a separate mechanism.

[0045] The second pivot axis may be collinear or parallel with an axis of the wind propulsion device, optionally the yaw axis thereof. The second pivot axis may be axially offset from the first pivot axis. The offset may be along the roll axis of the wind propulsion device. The second pivot axis may be located fore and / or aft of the first pivot axis along an axis of the wind propulsion device, optionally the roll axis. The further pivot mechanism may, at least in part, pivotably connect one or more pivoting wind propulsion elements to one or more other wind propulsion elements. The further pivot mechanism may pivotably connect one or more aft elements to one or more fore elements.

[0046] The first pivot axis may be at or proximal to the fore end of the pivoting wind propulsion element(s). The second pivot axis may be at or proximal to a mid region of the pivoting wind propulsion element(s).

[0047] The first pivot axis and the second pivot axis may be parallel. The further pivot mechanism may be operable to pivot the pivotably connected wind propulsion element(s) when the wind propulsion device is in the deployed position, the stowed position, and / or when moving from the deployed position to the stowed position or vice versa.

[0048] The further pivot mechanism may be operable to pivot the pivotably connected wind propulsion element(s) between a third pivot position and a fourth pivot position.

[0049] The aft element may be configured to be pivotable between two or more positions. The aft element may be configured to be pivotable between the first pivot position and the second pivot position. The aft element may be configured to be pivotable between a plurality of pivot positions between the first pivot position and the second pivot position. The pivot mechanism may be operable to pivot the aft element between the first pivot position and the second position, and / or between the plurality of positions therebetween.

[0050] The wind propulsion apparatus may be operable to move the one or more pivoting wind propulsion elements, or the aft element, or the fore element, between the first and second pivot positions when the apparatus is in the deployed position and / or in the stowed position, and / or when transitioning to the deployed position or to the stowed position.

[0051] The wind propulsion apparatus may be operable to adjust the footprint of the wind propulsion elements. The wind propulsion apparatus may be operable to adjust the footprint by at least partially overlaying two or more wind propulsion elements, optionally by overlaying at least a portion of the fore and aft elements. The aft element may be configured to be foldable relative to the fore element, or vice versa, to adjust the footprint. The pivot mechanism may be operable to overlay the two or more wind propulsion elements, or the fore and aft elements. The wind propulsion apparatus may be operable to adjust the footprint of the wind propulsion elements when the wind propulsion device is in the deployed position and / or in the stowed position, and / or when transitioning to the deployed position or to the stowed position. In the stowed position, the wind propulsion device may be substantially flat.

[0052] The first pivot position and / or the second pivot position may be a folded, or overlayed, position. The pivot mechanism may be operable to fold back one or more wind propulsion elements onto one or more other wind propulsion elements when moved to the first pivot position and / or the second pivot position. The pivot mechanism may be operable to fold back the aft element onto the fore element, or vice versa, when moved to the first pivot position and / or the second pivot position.

[0053] In the first and / or second pivot position, at least a part of the aft element may be at least partially overlayed with and adjacent to at least a part of the fore element.

[0054] In the first pivot position and / or the second pivot position, the fore end of the aft element may be proximal to, or adjacent to the aft end of the fore element, and the aft end of the aft element may be proximal to, or adjacent to the fore end of the fore element.

[0055] The pivot mechanism may be configured such that the fore end of the aft element is proximal to, or adjacent to the aft end of the fore element when pivoting between the first and second pivot positions. In the stowed position the wind propulsion apparatus may be operable to at least partially overlay two or more wind propulsion elements, optionally the fore and aft elements. In the stowed position, the fore end of the aft element may be proximal to, or adjacent to the aft end of the fore element, and the aft end of the aft element may be proximal to, or adjacent to the fore end of the fore element.

[0056] In the first pivot position and / or the second pivot position the top ends of the fore and aft element may be adjacent, and / or the bottom ends thereof may be adjacent. In the stowed position the top ends of the fore and aft element may be adjacent, and / or the bottom ends thereof may be adjacent.

[0057] The first and second pivot positions may be pivotably offset by up to approximately 180 degrees, optionally up to approximately 160 degrees, optionally up to approximately 100 degrees, optionally up to approximately 50 degrees, optionally up to approximately 200 degrees, optionally up to approximately 250 degrees, optionally up to approximately 300 degrees, optionally up to approximately 320 degrees, optionally between approximately 10 degrees to 320 degrees, optionally between 30 degrees and 300 degrees, optionally between 50 degrees and 300 degrees, about the pivot axis.

[0058] A plurality of modular wind propulsion elements may be configured to be pivotable about the pivot axis between the first and second pivot positions. A plurality of wind propulsion elements may be independently pivotable between the first and second pivot positions. A plurality of wind propulsion elements may be independently pivotable about the first pivot axis and / or the second pivot axis. One or more, or a plurality of aft modular elements may be configured to be pivotable between the first and second pivot positions. A plurality of, or each aft modular element may be configured to be independently pivotable. The pivot mechanism may include at least one pivot member for each independently pivotable wind propulsion element. The independently pivotable wind propulsion elements may be distributed along an axis of the wind propulsion device, optionally the yaw axis. The wind propulsion device may be operable to create, or adjust, or twist (as known in the field of sailing), by pivoting one or more, or two or more pivotable wind propulsion elements.

[0059] The aft element may include two or more, three or more, or four or more independently pivotable modular wind propulsion elements.

[0060] The wind propulsion apparatus may be operable to retain the wind propulsion device, or wind propulsion element(s), in the stowed position. The pivoting mechanism may be operable to, or to contribute to, retention of the wind propulsion device or wind propulsion element(s) in the stowed position. The wind propulsion apparatus may be operable to retain one or more wind propulsion elements, or the aft element, in the first pivot position and / or the second pivot position, and / or at the plurality of positions therebetween.

[0061] The fore element may be mounted to the base. The aft element may be mounted to the fore element. The base may be configured to provide support to the wind propulsion device when in the deployed position, and / or the stowed position, and / or when moving from the deployed position to the stowed position or vice versa. The base may be made substantially of metal, or a metal alloy, or steel, or a steel alloy.

[0062] The wind propulsion device may be configured to be pivotable between the deployed position and the stowed position. The wind propulsion device may be pivotably connected to the base. The wind propulsion device may be configured to be pivotable between the deployed position and the stowed position about at least one deployment axis, optionally substantially a single deployment axis. The at least one deployment axis may be parallel or collinear with the pitch axis and / or the roll axis of the wind propulsion device.

[0063] The deployment position may be pivotably offset from the stowed position by up to about 90 degrees, optionally about 90 degrees. In the deployed position the wind propulsion device may be arranged vertically. In the stowed position the wind propulsion device may be arranged horizontally.

[0064] The rotation device may be operable to rotate the wind propulsion device about the at least one axis of rotation when the wind propulsion device is in the deployed position, the stowed position, and / or when moving from the deployed position to the stowed position or from the stowed position to the deployed position.

[0065] The wind propulsion device may have a first, rotatable part and a second, fixed part. The first part may be rotatably connected to the second part, such that the first part can rotate about the at least one axis of rotation. As will be understood from a reading of the specification, the second part may be unable to rotate about the axis of rotation, but may be pivotable when the wind propulsion device moves between the deployed and stowed positions. The wind propulsion device may be rotatably connected to the base. The wind propulsion device may be rotatably connected to the base via the first and second parts thereof.

[0066] The rotation device may be configured to rotate all of the wind propulsion elements. The rotation device may be configured to rotate all of the wind propulsion elements simultaneously.

[0067] The rotation device may comprise one or more rotator elements. The rotator element(s) may include motor(s), or the like.

[0068] The rotation device may comprise a drive mechanism, which may be a direct-drive mechanism. The drive mechanism may include a gear mechanism. The rotator element(s) may be configured to provide a torque to rotate the wind propulsion device.

[0069] The rotator element(s) may be mounted to the second part of the wind propulsion device in a fixed position relative thereto, and configured to rotate the first part of the wind propulsion device.

[0070] The drive mechanism may include one or more drive elements. One or more first drive elements may be located at the rotation element(s). One or more second drive elements may be located at the first part of the wind propulsion device and fixed relative thereto. The drive mechanism may be configured to translate torque from the rotation element(s) to the first drive element to the second drive element. The first drive element may be coupled to the second drive element to transfer torque thereto. The first and second drive elements may be a gear, a toothed gear, or a spur gear, or the like. The drive mechanism may be a slew drive mechanism. The rotation element(s) may be a slew motor.

[0071] The rotation device may be located at a lower part of the wind propulsion device. The rotation device may be located between the wind propulsion elements and the base.

[0072] The rotation device may be configured to fully or partially rotate the wind propulsion device about the at least one axis of rotation.

[0073] The rotation device may be operable to rotate the wind propulsion device by up to approximately 360 degrees, optionally up to approximately 340 degrees, optionally up to approximately 320 degrees, optionally up to approximately 300 degrees, optionally up to approximately 280 degrees, optionally up to approximately 260 degrees, optionally up to approximately 240 degrees, optionally up to approximately 220 degrees, optionally up to approximately 200 degrees, optionally up to approximately 180 degrees, optionally up to approximately 160 degrees, optionally up to approximately 140 degrees, optionally up to approximately 120 degrees, optionally up to approximately 100 degrees, optionally up to approximately 95 degrees, optionally up to approximately 90 degrees, optionally up to approximately 85 degrees, optionally up to approximately 80 degrees, about the at least one axis of rotation.

[0074] The positioning apparatus may comprise one or more actuation devices. The actuation device may be or may include at least one of: a hydraulic mechanism, piston mechanism, hydraulic piston mechanism, and / or hydraulic ram system, or the like. The actuation device may be configured to move the wind propulsion device between the deployed position and the stowed position. The actuation device may be configured to apply a force to the wind propulsion device to pivot it between the deployed position and the stowed position.

[0075] The wind propulsion device may comprise a lever arm. The lever arm may be located at the second part of the wind propulsion device. The actuation device may be engaged or engageable with the lever arm to move the wind propulsion device between the stowed and the deployed position. In the stowed position, the lever arm may be angularly offset downwards from horizontal. The lever arm may be a cranked arm, or the like. The actuation device may be connected to an end of the lever arm. The lever arm may pivot about the at least one deployment axis. The lever arm may remain fixed when the wind propulsion device rotates about the at least one axis of rotation.

[0076] The wind propulsion device may be configured, in use, to harness the wind when in the deployed position.

[0077] The stowed position of the wind propulsion device may be a closed, or folded position. The wind propulsion device may be configured to have a reduced footprint in the stowed position.

[0078] The positioning apparatus may be operable to deploy the wind propulsion device relative to the base, or the vessel, or a hull of the vessel.

[0079] When in the deployed position, the yaw axis of the wind propulsion device may be a substantially vertical axis. When in the deployed position, the roll axis and / or the pitch axis may be substantially horizontal. In the stowed position the height of the wind propulsion apparatus may be less than 50% of the deployed height, optionally less than 40%, optionally less than 30%, optionally less than 20%, optionally less than 10%.

[0080] In the stowed position, the yaw axis of the wind propulsion device may be a substantially horizontal axis.

[0081] The rotation device may be operable to rotate the wind propulsion device about the at least one axis of rotation when the wind propulsion device is in the deployed position and / or in the stowed position, and / or when transitioning to the deployed position or to the stowed position.

[0082] The actuation device may include at least one piston, which may be a hydraulic piston. The actuation device may be mounted to the base. The actuation device may be connected to the base and the wind propulsion device. The at least one piston may be fixedly connected to the base and to the wind propulsion device. The at least one piston may be connected to the second part of the wind propulsion device. The at least one piston may be arranged substantially horizontally. The at least one piston may be configured to pivot the wind propulsion device between the stowed and deployed position by actuation substantially along the horizontal direction.

[0083] The actuation device may comprise a first end and a second end. The first end and the second end of the actuation device may be located at opposite ends of the actuation device. The first end may be connected, either directly or indirectly to the base. The second end may be connected, either directly or indirectly to the wind propulsion device. The second end may be connected to a lower end or lower part of the wind propulsion device, or the second part of the wind propulsion device, or the lever arm thereof. The base may provide support to the actuation device.

[0084] The base may at least partially enclose the positioning apparatus. The base may at least partially enclose the actuation device.

[0085] The actuation device may be moveable between a first position and a second position. The first position may be an extended position. The second position may be a retracted position. The at least one piston may be movable between the first and second positions. The actuation device may be moveable between a plurality of positions between the first position and the second position. The actuation device may be fully extended in the extended position. The actuation device may be fully retracted in the retracted position.

[0086] The actuation device may be configured to pivot the wind propulsion device between the deployed position and the stowed position. The actuation device may be configured to move, or pivot the wind propulsion device by moving between the extended position and the retracted position. When in the extended position, the wind propulsion device may be in the stowed position, and when in the retracted position, the wind propulsion device may be in the deployed position, or in some examples the opposite arrangement.

[0087] The wind propulsion device may be configured to be retainable, or lockable, or securable in one or more positions, optionally two or more positions, optionally at least the deployment position and / or the stowed position. The positioning apparatus may be operable to retain, or lock, or secure the wind propulsion device in one or more, or two or more locked positions relative to the base, or the vessel, or a hull of the vessel. The one or more locked positions may comprise, or may be, the deployed position and / or the stowed position.

[0088] The positioning apparatus may comprise a retention mechanism. The retention mechanism may be configured to retain, or lock, or secure the wind propulsion device in one or more locked positions.

[0089] The retention mechanism may be configured to lock and unlock the actuation device, or the at least one piston thereof.

[0090] The retention mechanism may comprise a retention member. The retention member may be configured to retain the wind propulsion device in one or more locked positions. The retention member may be a substantially cuboidal, or rectangular shaped member. The retention member may be a substantially elongate member. The retention member may be a block, or a box, or a wedge, or the like.

[0091] The positioning apparatus may comprise a retention member engaging portion. The positioning apparatus may comprise one or more retention member engaging portions. The positioning apparatus may comprise two or more retention member engaging portions. The positioning apparatus may comprise a first retention member engaging portion. The first retention member engaging portion may be located at or on the base. The positioning apparatus may comprise a second retention member engaging portion. The second retention member engaging portion may be located at or on the wind propulsion device, or the second part thereof.

[0092] The, or each retention member engaging portion may be configured to be engageable, or connectable, or securable to the retention member in use. Each retention member engaging portion may be a cavity, or a recess, or a cutaway, or the like, in at least one of: the base, the wind propulsion device, and the second part thereof. The shape and size of the cavity, or recess, or the like of each retention member engaging portion may substantially align with the size and shape of the retention member.

[0093] The retention mechanism may comprise a retention actuation device. The retention actuation device may be configured to actuate, or move, or activate the retention member. The retention actuation mechanism may be a hydraulic mechanism, a piston mechanism, a hydraulic piston mechanism, and / or a hydraulic ram system, or the like. The retention actuation device may be moveable between a first position and a second position. The first position may be an extended position. The second position may be a retracted position. The retention actuation device may be moveable between a plurality of positions between the first position and the second position. The retention actuation device may be fully extended in the extended position. The retention actuation device may be fully retracted in the retracted position.

[0094] The retention actuation device may be connected to the base and to the retention member. A first end of the retention actuation device may be connected to the base and a second end may be connected to the retention member.

[0095] The retention mechanism may be configured to move, or actuate, or activate the retention member by moving between the extended position and retracted position of the retention actuation device. When in the extended position, the retention member may be engaged, or located in the retention member engaging portion(s). When in the extended position, the retention mechanism may retain, or lock, or secure the wind propulsion device in the one or more locked positions.

[0096] The retention mechanism may be operable to prevent the wind propulsion device from pivoting about the deployment axis. The retention mechanism may be operable to prevent the wind propulsion device from moving, or pivoting from the deployed position and / or the stowed position.

[0097] When the retention mechanism is in the retracted position, the wind propulsion device may move between the deployed position and the stowed position. When the retention mechanism is in the retracted position, the wind propulsion device may pivot about the deployment axis. The retracted position may be an unretained position.

[0098] The wind propulsion apparatus may comprise a control system. The control system may be configured to control the operation of the wind propulsion apparatus.

[0099] The control system may be configured to control the operation of the wind propulsion device. The control system may be configured to control the operation of the pivot mechanism. The control system may be configured to control the positioning apparatus. The control system may be configured to control the rotation device.

[0100] The control system may be configured to control the operation of the actuation device.

[0101] The control system may be configured to control the operation of the retention mechanism. The wind propulsion apparatus may comprise a support mechanism. The support mechanism may be configured to provide support to the wind propulsion device when in the stowed position. The support mechanism may be configured to hold up, or raise the wind propulsion device when in the stowed position.

[0102] The wind propulsion device may comprise a support mechanism engagement portion. The support mechanism engagement portion may be configured to be engageable with the support mechanism when in the stowed position. The support mechanism engagement portion may be located at or adjacent to the first end of the wind propulsion device. The support mechanism engagement portion may be located on or adjacent to the fore element, and / or proximal to, or adjacent to a top end of the fore element. The support mechanism engagement portion may be a protrusion, a spigot, or the like. The support mechanism engagement portion may be a substantially cylindrical shaped portion.

[0103] The support mechanism may comprise one or more frames, optionally an A-frame or the like. The, or each frame may comprise one or more frame members, which may be support legs, or the like. The support mechanism may comprise one or more support feet.

[0104] The base and the support mechanism may support the wind propulsion device when in the stowed position.

[0105] The support mechanism may be attachable or mountable to the base, or the vessel, or a hull of the vessel, or the like. The support mechanism may comprise a wind propulsion device engagement member. The wind propulsion device engagement member may be configured to engage with and support the wind propulsion device when in the stowed position.

[0106] The support mechanism and / or the wind propulsion device may be configured to permit rotation of the wind propulsion device about the at least one axis of rotation when the wind propulsion device is engaged with the support mechanism. The wind propulsion device engagement member may comprise one or more roller devices. The one or more roller devices may be wheels, or the like. The one or more roller devices may be configured to roll when the wind propulsion device is in the stowed position and the wind propulsion device is rotating about the at least one axis of rotation.

[0107] The support mechanism may be configured to support the wind propulsion device when it is rotating on the one or more roller devices thereof.

[0108] The wind propulsion apparatus may comprise one or more vessel attachment components for attaching the base to the vessel. The one or more vessel attachment components may be configured for attachment to the vessel using at least one of: welding, riveting, releasable attachment(s), clamping, connecting, attachment, fastening, or the like. The base may be or connectable, or securable to the vessel, the deck of the vessel, the hull of the vessel, the wall(s) of the vessel, and / or the floor(s) of the vessel, and / or any suitable attachment point(s) of the vessel, by the one or more vessel attachment components. In some examples, the one or more vessel attachment components may be integrated, or installed on the vessel, the deck of the vessel, the hull of the vessel, the wall(s) of the vessel, and / or the floor(s) of the vessel. The one or more vessel attachment components may comprise at least one of: one or more frames, frame members, planar surfaces, flange portions, holes, slots, orifices, bars, rods, beams, H-beams, base members, planar base members, columns, pillars, and posts, or the like. The vessel attachment components may be substantially rigid members. The vessel attachment components may be made of metal, optionally an alloy, optionally steel, optionally a steel alloy. The vessel attachment components may be configured for welding to the vessel.

[0109] The base may comprise one or more substantially planar base floor members for engaging with one or more planar surfaces of the vessel, optionally a hull or deck of the vessel.

[0110] The positioning apparatus may be configured to be releasably attachable to the one or more vessel attachment components. The positioning apparatus may be configured to be releasably engageable with the one or more vessel attachment components.

[0111] The wind propulsion device and / or the base may be configured to be releasably attachable to the one or more vessel attachment components. The wind propulsion device and / or the base may be configured to be releasably engageable with the one or more vessel attachment components.

[0112] According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of operating a wind propulsion apparatus for a vessel, comprising the steps of: providing a wind propulsion apparatus for a vessel, the apparatus comprising: a base; a substantially rigid wind propulsion device supported by the base and rotatable about at least one axis of the base; a positioning apparatus operable to move the wind propulsion device between a deployed position and a stowed position; and a rotation device operable to rotate the wind propulsion device about the at least one axis of rotation; and operating the positioning apparatus to move the wind propulsion apparatus from the stowed position to the deployed position.

[0113] According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of installing a wind propulsion apparatus on a vessel, comprising the steps of: providing a wind propulsion apparatus for a vessel, the apparatus comprising: a base; a substantially rigid wind propulsion device supported by the base and rotatable about at least one axis of the base; a positioning apparatus operable to move the wind propulsion device between a deployed position and a stowed position; and a rotation device operable to rotate the wind propulsion device about the at least one axis of rotation; and attaching the base to the vessel.

[0114] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a vessel comprising: a wind propulsion apparatus for a vessel, the apparatus comprising: a base; a substantially rigid wind propulsion device supported by the base and rotatable about at least one axis of the base; a positioning apparatus operable to move the wind propulsion device between a deployed position and a stowed position; and a rotation device operable to rotate the wind propulsion device about the at least one axis of rotation.

[0115] The vessel may comprise a plurality of wind propulsion apparatuses.

[0116] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of propelling a vessel, comprising the steps of: providing a vessel comprising: a wind propulsion apparatus for a vessel, the apparatus comprising: a base; a substantially rigid wind propulsion device supported by the base and rotatable about at least one axis of the base; a positioning apparatus operable to move the wind propulsion device between a deployed position and a stowed position; and a rotation device operable to rotate the wind propulsion device about the at least one axis of rotation; and operating the positioning apparatus to move the wind propulsion apparatus from the stowed position to the deployed position. According to a sixth aspect of the present invention there is provided a kit of parts for assembling a wind propulsion apparatus for a vessel, the kit of parts comprising: a base; a substantially rigid wind propulsion device supportable by the base, and rotatable about at least one axis of the base when supported thereby; a positioning apparatus operable to move the wind propulsion device between a deployed position and a stowed position when the kit is assembled; and a rotation device operable to rotate the wind propulsion device about the at least one axis of rotation when the kit is assembled.

[0117] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention there is provided a wind propulsion device comprising: one or more wind propulsion elements.

[0118] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention there is provided a vessel comprising: a wind propulsion device comprising: one or more wind propulsion elements.

[0119] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention there is provided a wind propulsion apparatus the apparatus comprising: a base; a substantially rigid wind propulsion device supported by the base and rotatable about at least one axis of the base; a positioning apparatus operable to move the wind propulsion device between a deployed position and a stowed position; and a rotation device operable to rotate the wind propulsion device about the at least one axis of rotation.

[0120] The wind propulsion apparatus may be suitable for use on a vessel, vehicle, land vehicle, or on land. Other uses of the apparatus will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading the present specification.

[0121] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of operating a wind propulsion apparatus, comprising the steps of: providing a wind propulsion apparatus, the apparatus comprising: a base; a substantially rigid wind propulsion device supported by the base and rotatable about at least one axis of the base; a positioning apparatus operable to move the wind propulsion device between a deployed position and a stowed position; and a rotation device operable to rotate the wind propulsion device about the at least one axis of rotation; and operating the positioning apparatus to move the wind propulsion apparatus from the stowed position to the deployed position.

[0122] According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention there is provided a kit of parts for assembling a wind propulsion apparatus, the kit of parts comprising: a base; a substantially rigid wind propulsion device supportable by the base, and rotatable about at least one axis of the base when supported thereby; a positioning apparatus operable to move the wind propulsion device between a deployed position and a stowed position when the kit is assembled; and a rotation device operable to rotate the wind propulsion device about the at least one axis of rotation when the kit is assembled.

[0123] Embodiments of the first aspect to the eleventh aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of one or more of the other aspects of the present invention or its embodiments.

[0124] Brief description of the drawings

[0125] Embodiments of the invention will not be described, by way of example, with reference to the drawings, in which:

[0126] Fig. 1 is an isometric view of a wind propulsion apparatus 1 , in a deployed position, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0127] Fig. 2 is the stowed position of the apparatus of Fig. 1 ;

[0128] Fig. 3 shows the pivot positions of the apparatus of Fig. 1 ;

[0129] Fig. 4 shows the lower part of the apparatus of Fig. 1 ;

[0130] Figs. 5a to 5c depict the operation of the positioning apparatus of the wind propulsion apparatus of Fig. 1 ;

[0131] Figs. 6a and 6b show end views of another embodiment in which a support mechanism is employed;

[0132] Fig. 6c is a side view of the embodiment of Figs. 6a and 6b; and

[0133] Figs. 7a to 7c show the wind propulsion apparatus of Fig. 1 on a vessel. embodiments

[0134] With reference to Figs. 1 to 7c, a wind propulsion apparatus 1 for a vessel

[0135] 2 is shown. The apparatus 1 comprises a base 4 and a substantially rigid wind propulsion device 6 supported by the base 4 and rotatable about an axis of the base (a rotation axis 8). The apparatus 1 comprises a positioning apparatus 10 operable to move the wind propulsion device 6 between a deployed position 12 and a stowed position 14, and a rotation device 16 operable to rotate the wind propulsion device 6 about the axis of rotation 8.

[0136] The wind propulsion device 6 is configured, in use, to harness the wind when in the deployed position 12.

[0137] As shown in Figs. 7a to 7c, the apparatus 1 is suitable for use on marine vessels 2, such as boats, ships, freight vessels, ocean-going vessels, container ships, cruise ships, or any suitable marine vessel 2. The present invention is particularly advantageous for use on large oceangoing vessels 2, where savings in fuel consumption over long journeys are possible by harnessing wind energy through the apparatus 1 . It will be understood that the wind propulsion apparatus 1 may have other practical uses beyond marine vessels 2, such as on vehicles, or for other applications readily apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0138] The wind propulsion apparatus 1 is configured for mounting and installation on a body portion, hull, deck, or any other suitable location of the vessel 2, and can be retrofitted to an existing vessel 2.

[0139] The wind propulsion device 6 typically has a height of up to approximately 42 metres, a width of up to approximately 8.5 metres, and a depth of up to approximately 5 metres, when in the deployed position 12, and a height of up to 10 metres in the stowed position 14. It will be understood that other dimensions are possible. The wind propulsion device 6 is arranged above the deck, and spaced apart from the deck when in the stowed position 14, but it will be understood that in some embodiments, stowing partly or entirely below deck may be desirable, or stowing within a storage compartment or the like.

[0140] The wind propulsion apparatus 1 is configured, in use, to harness wind energy to apply force(s) to the vessel 2, as is known in the field of sailing.

[0141] The wind propulsion device 6 is of the rigid type, formed from a plurality of substantially rigid aerofoils. As will be understood from the embodiments illustrated and described here, the aerofoils are rigid in that they are made of rigid construction, but the aerofoils are movable by operation of the apparatus 1 by rotation, pivoting, deployment etc. The aerofoils are wing sails, but other types are possible.

[0142] As shown in Fig. 1 , the wind propulsion device 6 comprises a roll axis 6x, pitch axis 6y, and yaw axis 6z, which are orthogonal to one another. The axis of rotation 8 is a yaw axis 4z of the base 4, which in this embodiment is colinear with the yaw axis 6z of the wind propulsion device 6.

[0143] The height of the wind propulsion device 6 is defined along the yaw axis 6z, the width of the wind propulsion device 6 is defined along the roll axis 6x, and the depth of the wind propulsion device 6 is defined along the pitch axis 6y.

[0144] With reference to Fig. 1 , the wind propulsion device 6 comprises a first end 6a (top) and a second end 6b (bottom) located at opposite ends thereof, separated along the yaw axis 6z, and a third end 6c (fore end) and a fourth end 6d (aft end), located at opposite ends thereof, separated along the roll axis 6x of the wind propulsion device 6. As best shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the wind propulsion device 6 comprises a plurality of wind propulsion elements 18 arranged as a fore element 20 and an aft element 22. The wind propulsion elements 18 are rigid aerofoils and, specifically, rigid wing sail elements. The aft element 22 is supported only by the fore element 20. It will be appreciated that a great many arrangements of the wind propulsion elements 18 are possible, and the terms fore and aft elements 20, 22, are used to describe their relationship to each other and not to limit them to being the foremost or aftmost wind propulsion elements 18. It will also be readily apparent that in some embodiments, only one wind propulsion element 18, or any suitable number thereof, may be employed.

[0145] The fore element 20 is located at the front, or fore of the wind propulsion device 6 and the aft element 22 is located at the back, or aft thereof. The fore element 20 is located generally at the third end 6c of the wind propulsion device 6, and the aft element 22 is at the fourth end 6d. The aft element 22 is axially offset along the roll axis 6x from the fore element 20. This axial offset is when the wind propulsion device 6 is as substantially orientated in Fig. 1 , with the roll axis 6x defined accordingly.

[0146] The wind propulsion elements 18 are elongated in the direction of the axis of rotation 8 (the yaw axis 6z).

[0147] As best shown with reference to Figs. 1 and 3, the aft element 22 has a smaller volume, width and depth than the fore element 20, and the two elements 20, 22, are substantially the same height. Each of the wind propulsion elements 18 has a substantially teardrop-based cylindrical shape. Turning to Fig. 1 , the fore element 20 and the aft element 22 comprise a top end 20a, 22a, and a bottom end 20b, 22b, located at opposite ends thereof and separated along the yaw axis 6z of the wind propulsion device 6. The top ends 20a, 22a, of the fore and aft elements 20, 22, are located adjacent to the first end 6a of the wind propulsion device 6, and the bottom ends 20b, 22b, of the fore and aft elements 20, 22, are located adjacent to the second end 6b of the wind propulsion device 6.

[0148] The fore element 20 and the aft element 22 each comprise a fore end 20c, 22c, and an aft end 20d, 22d, located at opposite ends thereof, and separated along the roll axis 6x of the wind propulsion device 6. The fore end 20c of the fore element 20 is located adjacent to the third end 6c of the wind propulsion device 6 and the aft end 20d of the fore element 20 is located proximal to the fore end 22c of the aft element 22. The aft end 22d of the aft element 22 is located adjacent to the fourth end 6d of the wind propulsion device 6.

[0149] Each wind propulsion element 18 has a substantially tapered shape in the direction of the roll axis 6x of the wind propulsion device 6. Each wind propulsion element 18 has a variable depth from the fore end 20c, 22c to the aft end 20d, 22d. The taper is also from the fore ends 20c, 22c to the aft ends 20d, 22d.

[0150] Each wind propulsion element 18 has a leading edge at the fore end 20c, 22c, thereof and a trailing edge at the aft end 20d, 22d, thereof, a camber line between fore and aft, and a plurality of major surfaces 18a. In the deployed position 12, the wind propulsion device 6 is arranged such that the major surfaces 18a are substantially vertical to harness the wind, although it will be appreciated from a reading of the specification that depending on how the elements 18 are pivoted and generally positioned, the major surfaces 18a may be offset from vertical at least some of the time.

[0151] The wind propulsion elements 18 are made primarily of aluminium and glass fibre composite.

[0152] The wind propulsion elements 18 are substantially hollow and comprise reinforcing members (not illustrated) located inside the wind propulsion element 18 configured to provide increased rigidity and support thereto. The reinforcing members can be spars, ribs, bars, or the like, or a combination thereof.

[0153] In the embodiments illustrated and described here, the fore element 20 and the aft element 22 are modular, each formed of a plurality of fore modular elements 20e-h and a plurality of aft modular elements 22e-h. The plurality of fore modular elements 20e-h are arranged in sequence along the yaw axis 6z of the wind propulsion device 6, as are the aft modular elements 22e-h. The fore modular elements 20e-h are arranged such that each module 20e-h is adjacent to at least one other module 20e- h, and the aft modular elements 22e-h are arranged such that each module 22e-h is adjacent to at least one other module 22e-h. Each fore modular element 20e-h is attached to the adjacent fore modular element 20e-h, and each aft modular element 22e-h is attached to the adjacent aft modular element 22e-h.

[0154] Each fore modular element 20e-h is adapted to be reversibly attachable to the fore element 20, and each aft modular element 22e-h is adapted to be reversibly attachable to the aft element 22. This can be achieved in a number of ways, for example by releasable fasteners or the like. The fore element 20 and the aft element 22 each comprise a plurality of fairings 24 (for example, cover members) to cover at least a portion thereof. The fairings 24 typically include capping members, plug members, sealing members, panel members, and the like.

[0155] The fairings 24 are curved and planar members having a substantially smooth exterior configured to improve the aerodynamic performance of the wind propulsion device 6 and reduce drag. The fairings 24 are made substantially of glass-fibre based composite materials, but other materials can be used, such as metals, like aluminium, and metal alloys, like aluminium alloys. In this embodiment the fairings 24 are glass-fibre laminates over a foam body.

[0156] The fairings 24 are configured to be releasably connectable to the wind propulsion elements 18, by a connection device, which can be fastener(s), releasable connector(s), mechanical fastener(s), or rivet(s), or the like.

[0157] The aft element 22 is pivotably connected to the fore element 20 (the aft element 22 therefore being a pivotably connected wind propulsion element 18). The fore element 20 is adjacent the aft element 22, but in some embodiments there may be one or more further wind propulsion elements 18, or other components, between the fore and aft elements 20, 22.

[0158] The wind propulsion device 6 comprises a pivot mechanism 26 for pivoting the pivotably connected aft element 22. The pivot mechanism 26 is configured for pivoting about a first pivot axis 28. The first pivot axis 28 is parallel to the yaw axis 6z of the wind propulsion device 6. The pivot mechanism 26 directly connects the aft element 22 to the fore element 20. The pivot mechanism 26 is configured to provide support to the aft element 22, and in the embodiments shown here the entire aft element 22 is supported by the fore element 20 through the pivot mechanism 26. The pivot mechanism 26 connects the trailing edge of each fore modular element 20e-h to a leading edge of each aft modular element 22e-h. The fore modular elements 20e-h are not pivotable - only the aft modular elements 22e-h are pivotable about the first pivot axis 28, with all modular elements 20e-h, 22e-h, being rotatable about the axis of rotation 8.

[0159] The pivot mechanism 26 includes a fore element connecting portion 26a and an aft element connection portion 26b.

[0160] As illustrated in Fig. 3, the pivot mechanism 26 is operable to pivot the aft element 22 between a first pivot position 30 and a second pivot position 32 about the first pivot axis 28, about the fore element 20.

[0161] Referring to Fig. 3, the pivot mechanism 26 is configured such that, in some positions, the leading edge of the aft element 22 extends beyond the trailing edge of the fore element 20 along the roll axis 6x of the wind propulsion device 6. The pivot mechanism 26 is configured to extend the leading edge of the aft element 22 in this way between the first pivot position 30 and a first intermediate pivot position (not illustrated), and between the second pivot position 32 and a second intermediate pivot position (not illustrated).

[0162] In the embodiments illustrated and described here, the pivot mechanism 26 is operable to space apart and increase the spacing between the leading edge of the aft element 22 and the trailing edge of the fore element 20 to enable and increase an air-flow passage therebetween.

[0163] As illustrated in Figs. 1 , 2, 6a, and 6b, the pivot mechanism 26 includes a plurality of pivot members 26c, each having a cranked body portion 26d extending between the fore connection portion 26a and the aft connection portion 26b. Each body portion 26d extends along the roll axis 6x of the wind propulsion device 6 and is cranked to enable the pivot mechanism 26 to extend the leading edge of the aft element 22 beyond the trailing edge of the fore element 20 as described above. The crank is in the direction of the pitch axis 6y of the wind propulsion device 6, and the cranked body portion 26d is L-shaped with a major and minor portion thereof. The minor portion is proximal the fore element 20 and the major portion proximal the aft element 22. Each body portion 26d is substantially asymmetric in the yaw-roll plane of the wind propulsion device 6. Each pivot member 26c hingedly-connects the aft element 22 to the fore element 20, which is an offset hinged connection.

[0164] A plurality of pivot members 26c are spaced apart from one another, distributed along the yaw axis 6z of the wind propulsion device 6. Pivot members 26c are located at the first end 6a, the second end 6b, a mid region 6e, an upper mid region 6f, and a lower mid region 6g of the wind propulsion device 6.

[0165] The first pivot axis 28 is parallel to the yaw axis 6z of the wind propulsion device 6 and to the yaw axis 4z of the base 4.

[0166] The wind propulsion device 6 comprises a further pivot mechanism 36 for pivoting the aft element 22 about a second pivot axis 38, which is best shown in Figs. 3, 6a, and 6b. In the embodiments illustrated and described here, the further pivot mechanism 36 is a separate mechanism to the pivot mechanism 26, but in other embodiments they may be part of the same pivot mechanism. The second pivot axis 38 is parallel to the yaw axis 6z of the wind propulsion device 6. The second pivot axis 38 is axially offset from the first pivot axis 28. The offset is along the roll axis 6x of the wind propulsion device 6. The second pivot axis 38 is located aft of the first pivot axis 28 along the roll axis 6x. The further pivot mechanism 36 pivotably connects the aft element 22 to the fore element 20.

[0167] The first pivot axis 28 is proximal to the fore end 22c of the pivoting aft element 22, and the second pivot axis 38 is at a mid-region 22i of the pivoting aft element 22.

[0168] The first pivot axis 28 and the second pivot axis 38 are parallel axes.

[0169] The wind propulsion apparatus 1 is operable to move the pivoting aft element 22 between the first and second pivot positions 30, 32, when the apparatus 1 is in the deployed position 12, in the stowed position 14, and when transitioning to the deployed position 12 or to the stowed position 14.

[0170] The further pivot mechanism 36 is operable to pivot the pivotably connected aft element 22 when the wind propulsion device 6 is in the deployed position 12, the stowed position 14, and when moving from the deployed position 12 to the stowed position 14 or from the stowed position 14 to the deployed position 12.

[0171] The further pivot mechanism 36 is operable to pivot the pivotably connected aft element 22 between a third pivot position 40 and a fourth pivot position 42. The aft element 22 is configured to be pivotable between a plurality of pivot positions between the first and second pivot position 30, 32, and a plurality of positions between the third and fourth pivot positions 40, 42.

[0172] The wind propulsion apparatus 1 is operable to adjust the footprint of the wind propulsion elements 18 by overlaying the fore and aft elements 20, 22, as shown in Fig. 2 and 3. In this embodiment, the aft element 22 is configured to be foldable relative to the fore element 20, by the pivot mechanism 26, to adjust the footprint. The wind propulsion apparatus 1 is operable to adjust the footprint of the wind propulsion elements 18 when the wind propulsion device 6 is in the deployed position 12, in the stowed position 14, and when transitioning to the deployed position 12 or to the stowed position 14. In the stowed position 14, the wind propulsion device 6 is substantially flat.

[0173] The second pivot position 32 is a folded overlayed position. The pivot mechanism 26 is operable to fold back the aft element 22 onto the fore element 20 when moved to the second pivot position 32. It will be understood that the reduction in footprint may be carried out in other ways, such as by sliding rather than folding.

[0174] The fore and aft elements 20, 22, can be overlayed when the apparatus 1 is in the stowed position 14, or when in the deployed position 12, or when moving therebetween.

[0175] In the second pivot position 32 the aft element 22 is overlayed with and adjacent to the fore element 20. In the second pivot position 32, the fore end 22c of the aft element 22 is proximal to the aft end 20d of the fore element 20, and the aft end 22d of the aft element 22 is proximal to the fore end 20c of the fore element 20.

[0176] The pivot mechanism 26 is configured such that the fore end 22c of the aft element 22 is adjacent the aft end 20d of the fore element 20 when pivoting between the first and second pivot positions 30, 32.

[0177] In the second pivot position 32, the top ends 20a, 22a, of the fore and aft elements 20, 22 are adjacent, and the bottom ends 20b, 22b, thereof are adjacent. This can happen in the stowed position 14, in the deployed position 12, or when the wind propulsion device 6 moves therebetween.

[0178] The first and second pivot positions 30, 32 can be pivotably offset by up to approximately 320 degrees or any suitable range.

[0179] The plurality of modular aft elements 20e-h, 22e-h are configured to each be independently pivotable about the first pivot axis 28 between the first and second pivot positions 30, 32, and about the second pivot axis 38 between the third and fourth pivot positions 40, 42.

[0180] The pivot mechanism 26 includes at least one pivot member 26c for each independently pivotable modular aft element 22e-h. The independently pivotable modular aft elements 22e-h, are distributed along the yaw axis 6z of the wind propulsion device 6. The wind propulsion device 6 is operable to create, or adjust, twist (as known in the field of sailing), by pivoting one or more pivotable modular aft elements 22e-h.

[0181] In the embodiments shown here, the aft element 22 includes four independently pivotable modular aft elements 22e-h. The wind propulsion apparatus 6 is operable to retain the wind propulsion device 6 and the wind propulsion elements 18 in the stowed position 14. The pivoting mechanism 26 is operable to contribute to the retention of the wind propulsion device 6 and the wind propulsion elements 18. The wind propulsion apparatus 1 is operable to retain the aft element 22 in the second pivot position 32.

[0182] The fore element 20 is mounted to the base 4 and the aft element 22 is mounted to the fore element 20. The base 4 provides support to the wind propulsion device 6 when in the deployed position 12, in the stowed position 14, and when moving therebetween.

[0183] The base 4 is made substantially of steel.

[0184] The wind propulsion device 6 is configured to be pivotable between the deployed position 12 and the stowed position 14, by way of being pivotably connected to the base 4. The wind propulsion device 6 is configured to be pivotable between the deployed position 12 and the stowed position 14 about a single deployment axis 44, which is parallel to the pitch axis 6y. In other embodiments, the deployment axis 44 could be the roll axis 6x and / or the pitch axis 6y, or any suitable axis / axes, of the wind propulsion device 6.

[0185] The deployed position 12 is pivotably offset from the stowed position 14 by about 90 degrees. In the deployed position 12 the wind propulsion device 6 is arranged vertically and in the stowed position 14 the wind propulsion device 6 is arranged horizontally. The rotation device 16, which is best shown in Fig. 4 is operable to rotate the wind propulsion device 6 about the axis of rotation 8 when the wind propulsion device 6 is in the deployed position 12, the stowed position 14, and when moving from the deployed position 12 to the stowed position 14 or from the stowed position 14 to the deployed position 12. In the embodiments, the wind propulsion device 6 can be rotated at any time, which is advantageous for example when seeking to stow the wind propulsion device 6 quickly, as it is not necessary to rotate the wind propulsion device 6 to a set position before moving to the stowed position 14. Advantageously, rotation and stowing can happen in any order. Stowing quickly is advantageous during storms, as failure to stow quickly enough may result in damage to the wind propulsion apparatus 1 or the vessel 2.

[0186] The wind propulsion device 6 has a first, rotatable part 6h and a second, fixed part 6i. The first part 6h is rotatably connected to the second part 6i, such that the first part 6h can rotate about the axis of rotation 8. As will be understood from a reading of the specification, the second part 6i is unable to rotate about the axis of rotation 8, but the second part 6i is pivotable about the deployment axis 44 when the wind propulsion device 6 moves between the deployed and stowed positions 12, 14.

[0187] The wind propulsion device 6 is rotatably connected to the base 4 via the first and second parts 6h, 6i thereof.

[0188] The rotation device 16 is configured to rotate all of the wind propulsion elements 18 simultaneously (i.e. they rotate together).

[0189] The rotation device 16 comprises a plurality of rotator elements 16a, which include slew motors 16b. The rotation device 16 comprises a slew drive mechanism 16c, which is a direct-drive mechanism 16c, including a gear mechanism. The rotator elements 16a are configured to provide a torque to rotate the wind propulsion device 6 via the drive mechanism 16c.

[0190] The rotator elements 16a are mounted to the second part 6i of the wind propulsion device 6 in a fixed position relative thereto, and configured to rotate the first part 6h of the wind propulsion device 6 about the axis of rotation 8.

[0191] The drive mechanism 16c includes a plurality of first drive elements 16d located at the rotator elements 16a and a second drive element 16e located at the first part 6h of the wind propulsion device 6 and fixed relative thereto. The drive mechanism 16c is configured to translate torque from the rotation elements 16a to the first drive element 16d to the second drive element 16e. The first drive element 16d is coupled to the second drive element 16e to transfer torque thereto. The first and second drive elements 16d, 16e are toothed gears. The rotation device 16 is located at a lower part of the wind propulsion device 6 between the wind propulsion elements 18 and the base 4.

[0192] The rotation device 16 is configured to fully rotate the wind propulsion device 6 about the axis of rotation 8, but in other embodiments, a partial rotation may be sufficient.

[0193] The positioning apparatus 10, which is best shown in Figs. 5a to 5c, comprises an actuation device 10a, which includes a hydraulic piston 10b configured to move the wind propulsion device 6 between the deployed position 12 and the stowed position 14. The actuation device 10a is configured to apply a force to the wind propulsion device 6 to pivot it between the deployed position 12 and the stowed position 14.

[0194] The wind propulsion device 6 comprises a lever arm 46 located at the second part 6i, and the hydraulic piston 10b is engaged with the lever arm 46 to move the wind propulsion device 6 between the stowed position 14 and the deployed position 12. In the stowed position 14, the lever arm 46 is angularly offset downwards from horizontal, as shown in Fig. 5c. The lever arm 46 is a cranked arm. The hydraulic piston 10b is connected to an end of the lever arm 46. The lever arm 46 pivots about the deployment axis 44. The lever arm 46 remains fixed when the wind propulsion device 6 rotates about the axis of rotation 8.

[0195] The stowed position 14 of the wind propulsion device 6 is a closed, or folded position. The wind propulsion device 6 is configured to have a reduced footprint in the stowed position 14 when folded.

[0196] The positioning apparatus 10 is operable to deploy the wind propulsion device 6 relative to the base 4 and to the deck and hull of the vessel 2.

[0197] When in the deployed position 12, the yaw axis 6z of the wind propulsion device 6 is a substantially vertical axis, and the roll axis 6x and the pitch axis 6y are substantially horizontal.

[0198] In the stowed position 14, the height of the wind propulsion apparatus 1 is about less than 20% of the deployed height.

[0199] In the stowed position 14, the yaw axis 6z of the wind propulsion device 6 is a substantially horizontal axis. The rotation device 16 is operable to rotate the wind propulsion device 6 about the axis of rotation 8 when the wind propulsion device 6 is in the deployed position 12, in the stowed position 14, and when transitioning to the deployed position 12 or to the stowed position 14.

[0200] The actuation device 10a is mounted to the base 4, and the hydraulic piston 10b is connected to the base 4 and the wind propulsion device 6. The piston 10b is arranged substantially horizontally, and is configured to pivot the wind propulsion device 6 between the stowed and deployed positions 12, 14, by actuation along the horizontal direction.

[0201] The piston 10b comprises a first end connected to the base 4 and a second end connected to the lever arm 46 of the second part 6i of the wind propulsion device 6.

[0202] The base 4 provides support to the positioning apparatus 10, including the actuation device 10a.

[0203] The base 4 at least partially encloses the positioning apparatus 10 and the actuation device 10a.

[0204] The piston 10b is moveable between a first, extended position and a second, retracted position. The piston 10b is fully extended in the extended position and fully retracted in the retracted position.

[0205] The actuation device 10a is configured to pivot the wind propulsion device 6 between the deployed position 12 and the stowed position 14 by the piston 10b moving between the extended position and the retracted position. When the piston 10b is in the extended position, the wind propulsion device 6 is in the stowed position 14, and when in the retracted position, the wind propulsion device 6 is in the deployed position 12, or in some embodiments the opposite arrangement is possible.

[0206] The positioning apparatus 10 is operable to lock the wind propulsion device 6 in a locked position 48 relative to the base 4 and the vessel 2. In this embodiment, the locked position 48 is the deployed position 12. However, in other embodiments, it may not be necessary to lock in the manner described herein. It should be understood that the positioning apparatus 10 is operable to lock the wind propulsion device 6 in a lock position 48 when in the stowed position 14.

[0207] The positioning apparatus 10 comprises a retention mechanism 50 configured to lock the wind propulsion device 6 in the locked position 48, which in this embodiment is the deployed position 14. The retention mechanism 50 is configured to lock and unlock the hydraulic piston 10b of the actuation device 10a. The retention mechanism 50 comprises a retention member 52 configured to retain the wind propulsion device 6 in the locked position 48. The retention member 52 is a substantially elongate cuboidal shaped member, which in this embodiment is a block.

[0208] The positioning apparatus 10 comprises two retention member engaging portions 54, which are cavities in the base 4, and the second part 6i comprises a retention member engagement portion 55, which is a slot therein.

[0209] The retention mechanism 50 comprises a retention actuation device 50a, which is a further hydraulic piston 50b configured to move the retention member 52. The further piston 50b is moveable between a first, extended position and a second, retracted position. The further piston 50b is moveable between a plurality of positions between the first, extended position and the second, retracted position. The further piston 50b is fully extended in the extended position and fully retracted in the retracted position.

[0210] A first end of the further piston 50b is connected to the base 4 and a second end is connected to the retention member 52.

[0211] The retention mechanism 50 is configured to move the retention member 52 by moving between the extended position and retracted position of the further piston 50b. When in the extended position, the retention member 52 is engaged, or located in the retention member engaging portions 54 and 55, and by engaging with the portion 55 of the second part 6i, the movement of the second part 6i is fixed in place and thus the device 6 is locked in the deployed position 12, and the rotation about the rotation axis 8 and pivoting about the first and second pivot axes 28, 38, can occur.

[0212] When in the extended position, the retention mechanism 50 locks the wind propulsion device 6 in the locked position 48 by blocking the action of the hydraulic piston 10b of the actuation device 10a.

[0213] The retention mechanism 50 is operable to prevent the wind propulsion device 6 from pivoting about the deployment axis 44 from the deployed position 12. In other embodiments, it may be prevented from moving from stowed position 14.

[0214] When the retention mechanism 50 is in the retracted position, the wind propulsion device 6 can be moved between the deployed position 12 and the stowed position 14. When the retention mechanism 50 is in the retracted position, the wind propulsion device 6 can be pivoted about the deployment axis 44. The retracted position is an unretained position, but the opposite arrangement is possible.

[0215] The wind propulsion apparatus 1 comprises a control system (not illustrated) configured to control the operation of the wind propulsion apparatus 1 , the wind propulsion device 6, the pivot mechanisms 26, 36, the positioning apparatus 10, the rotation device 16, the actuation device 10a, and the retention mechanism 50.

[0216] In some embodiments, as shown in Figs. 6a and 6c, the wind propulsion apparatus 1 comprises a support mechanism 56 in the form of an A-frame configured to provide support to the wind propulsion device 6 when in the stowed position 14. The support mechanism 56 is configured to hold up the wind propulsion device 6 when in the stowed position 14.

[0217] The wind propulsion device 6 comprises a support mechanism engagement portion 58 configured to be engageable with the support mechanism 56 when in the stowed position 14. The support mechanism engagement portion 58 is located adjacent the fore element 20 at the first end 6a of the wind propulsion device 6. The support mechanism engagement portion 58 is a cylindrical spigot.

[0218] The support mechanism 56, generally in the form of an A-frame, has support legs and support feet.

[0219] The base 4 and the support mechanism 56 support the wind propulsion device 6 when in the stowed position 14. The support mechanism 56 is attachable or mountable to the deck of the vessel 2, although in some embodiments the support mechanism 56 may be mountable / attachable to the base, or another part of the vessel 2 such as the hull. The support mechanism 56 comprises a wind propulsion device engagement member 60. The wind propulsion device engagement member 60 is configured to engage with and support the wind propulsion device 6 when in the stowed position 14 by engaging with the support mechanism engagement portion 58.

[0220] The support mechanism 56 and the wind propulsion device 6 are configured to permit rotation of the wind propulsion device 6 about the axis of rotation 8 when the wind propulsion device 6 is engaged with the support mechanism 56. The wind propulsion device engagement member 60 comprises roller devices 62, which in this embodiment are wheels that roll when the wind propulsion device 6 is in the stowed position 1 and the wind propulsion device 6 is rotating about the axis of rotation 8. This is advantageous when rotating the wind propulsion device 6 in the stowed position 14, as the device 6 is supported when rotating, and this helps in situations where the device 6 has been stowed quickly to get out of the wind, as the subsequent rotation and overlaying can be done while stowed, which mitigates the risk of storm damage and provides the operator with flexibility on how to stow the wind propulsion device 6.

[0221] The base 4 comprises a plurality of substantially planar base floor members 4a for engaging with one or more planar surfaces of the deck of the vessel 2.

[0222] As illustrated in Fig. 4c, the wind propulsion apparatus 1 comprises a plurality of vessel attachment components 64 for attaching the base 4 to the vessel 2. The vessel attachment components 64 are configured for attachment to the deck and hull of the vessel 2 using at least one of: welding, riveting, releasable attachment, clamping, connecting, attachment, fastening, or the like. This will vary according to the layout and configuration of the vessel 2, the type of vessel 2, etc, and may be customised as required. The base 4 is connectable and securable to the deck and hull of the vessel 2, but it will be understood that the wall(s) of the vessel 2, and / or the floor(s) of the vessel 2, and / or any suitable attachment point(s) of the vessel, may be attached by the one or more vessel attachment components 64. In some embodiments, the vessel attachment component(s) 64 can be integrated, or installed on the vessel 2, the deck of the vessel 2, the hull of the vessel 2, the wall(s) of the vessel 2, and / or the floor(s) of the vessel 2.

[0223] As shown in Figs. 1 , 4 and 7c the vessel attachment components 64 are formed of frames, frame members, planar surfaces, flange portions, holes, slots, orifices, bars, rods, beams, H-beams, base members, planar base members, columns, pillars, and posts. The vessel attachment components 64 are substantially rigid members made of steel and at least some of the vessel attachment components 64 are configured for welding to the vessel 2.

[0224] The positioning apparatus 10 is configured to be releasably attachable to the vessel attachment components 64. The positioning apparatus 10 is configured to be releasably engageable with the vessel attachment components 64.

[0225] The wind propulsion device 6 and the base 4 are configured to be releasably attachable to the vessel attachment components 64. The wind propulsion device 6 and the base 4 are configured to be releasably engageable with the vessel attachment components 64. Modifications may be made to the foregoing embodiments within the scope of the present invention.

[0226] For example, the axes used for pivoting, rotating and deploying the wind propulsion device 6 could be different to those shown.

Claims

Claims1. A wind propulsion apparatus for a vessel, the apparatus comprising: a base; a substantially rigid wind propulsion device supported by the base and rotatable about at least one axis of the base; a positioning apparatus operable to move the wind propulsion device between a deployed position and a stowed position; and a rotation device operable to rotate the wind propulsion device about the at least one axis of rotation.

2. The wind propulsion apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the wind propulsion device comprises a plurality of wind propulsion elements, wherein one or more wind propulsion elements are pivotably connected to one or more of the other wind propulsion elements, and wherein the wind propulsion device comprises a pivot mechanism for pivoting the one or more pivotably connected wind propulsion elements about at least one first pivot axis between a first pivot position and a second pivot position.

3. The wind propulsion apparatus of claim 2, wherein the wind propulsion apparatus is operable to move the one or more pivoting wind propulsion elements between the first and second pivot positions when the apparatus is in the deployed position and / or in the stowed position, and / or when transitioning to the deployed position or to the stowed position.

4. The wind propulsion apparatus of claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the wind propulsion elements comprise at least one fore element and at least one aft element, wherein the pivot mechanism is operable to pivot the aft element about the fore element or the fore element about the aft element.

5. The wind propulsion apparatus of claim 4, wherein the pivot mechanism is configured such that, in at least some positions, the leading edge of the aft element extends beyond the trailing edge of the fore element along an axis of the wind propulsion device, optionally a roll axis thereof.

6. The wind propulsion apparatus of claim 5, wherein the pivot mechanism is configured to extend the leading edge of the aft element between the first pivot position and a first intermediate pivot position, and / or between the second pivot position and a second intermediate pivot position.

7. The wind propulsion apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the wind propulsion device comprises a further pivot mechanism for pivoting at least one wind propulsion element about a second pivot axis.

8. The wind propulsion apparatus of claim 7, wherein the further pivot mechanism is operable to pivot the pivotably connected wind propulsion element(s) when the wind propulsion device is in the deployed position, the stowed position, and / or when moving from the deployed position to the stowed position or vice versa.

9. The wind propulsion apparatus of any of claims 2 to 8, wherein the wind propulsion apparatus is operable to adjust the footprint of the wind propulsion elements by at least partially overlaying two or more wind propulsion elements, optionally by overlaying at least a portion of the fore and aft elements.

10. The wind propulsion apparatus of claim 9, wherein the wind propulsion apparatus is operable to adjust the footprint of the wind propulsion elements when the wind propulsion device is in the deployed position and / or in the stowed position, and / or when transitioning to the deployed position or to the stowed position.11 . The wind propulsion apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the wind propulsion device is configured to be pivotable between the deployed position and the stowed position about at least one deployment axis, optionally substantially a single deployment axis.

12. The wind propulsion apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the rotation device is operable to rotate the wind propulsion device about the at least one axis of rotation when the wind propulsion device is in the deployed position, the stowed position, and / or when moving from the deployed position to the stowed position or from the stowed position to the deployed position.

13. The wind propulsion apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the positioning apparatus comprises one or more actuation devices, wherein the actuation device is, or includes, at least one of: a hydraulic mechanism, piston mechanism, hydraulic piston mechanism, and hydraulic ram system, or the like.

14. The wind propulsion apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the positioning apparatus comprises a retention mechanism configured to retain, or lock, or secure the wind propulsion device in one or more locked positions, wherein the one or more locked positions comprise the deployed position and / or the stowed position.

15. The wind propulsion apparatus of claim 14, when dependent on claim 13, wherein the retention mechanism is configured to lock and unlock the actuation device.

16. The wind propulsion apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the wind propulsion apparatus comprises a support mechanism configured to provide support to the wind propulsion device when in the stowed position.

17. The wind propulsion apparatus of claim 16, wherein the support mechanism and / or the wind propulsion device are configured to permit rotation of the wind propulsion device about the at least one axis of rotation when the wind propulsion device is engaged with the support mechanism.

18. The wind propulsion apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the wind propulsion apparatus comprises one or more vessel attachment components for attaching the base to the vessel, wherein the one or more vessel attachment components are configured for attachment to the vessel using at least one of: welding, riveting, releasable attachment, clamping, connecting, attachment, fastening, or the like; wherein the base is connectable, or securable to the vessel, the deck of the vessel, the hull of the vessel, the wall(s) of the vessel, and / or the floor(s) of the vessel, and / or any suitable attachment point(s) of the vessel, by the one or more vessel attachment components.

19. The wind propulsion apparatus of claim 18, wherein the one or more vessel attachment components comprise at least one of: one or more frames, frame members, planar surfaces, flange portions, holes, slots, orifices, bars, rods, beams, H-beams, base members, planar base members, columns, pillars, posts, or the like.

20. The wind propulsion apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the wind propulsion device comprises one or more cover members made of one or more metals, one or more alloys, one or more composite materials, or any combination thereof, optionally wherein the one or more metals is, or comprises aluminium, optionally wherein the one or more composite materials includes at least one of: a fibre-based composite, a glass-based composite, and a glass-fibre based composite.21 . The wind propulsion apparatus of claim 20, wherein the one or more cover members are fairings configured to improve the aerodynamic performance of the wind propulsion device, wherein the one or more cover members are curved and / or planar members, and wherein the one or more cover members have a substantially smooth exterior configured to reduce drag.

22. A vessel comprising the wind propulsion apparatus of any preceding claim.

23. A method of operating a wind propulsion apparatus for a vessel, comprising the steps of: providing a wind propulsion apparatus for a vessel, the apparatus comprising: a base; a substantially rigid wind propulsion device supported by the base and rotatable about at least one axis of the base;a positioning apparatus operable to move the wind propulsion device between a deployed position and a stowed position; and a rotation device operable to rotate the wind propulsion device about the at least one axis of rotation; and operating the positioning apparatus to move the wind propulsion apparatus from the stowed position to the deployed position.

24. A method of installing a wind propulsion apparatus on a vessel, comprising the steps of: providing a wind propulsion apparatus for a vessel, the apparatus comprising: a base; a substantially rigid wind propulsion device supported by the base and rotatable about at least one axis of the base; a positioning apparatus operable to move the wind propulsion device between a deployed position and a stowed position; and a rotation device operable to rotate the wind propulsion device about the at least one axis of rotation; and attaching the base to the vessel.

25. A kit of parts for assembling a wind propulsion apparatus for a vessel, the kit of parts comprising: a base; a substantially rigid wind propulsion device supportable by the base, and rotatable about at least one axis of the base when supported thereby;a positioning apparatus operable to move the wind propulsion device between a deployed position and a stowed position when the kit is assembled; and a rotation device operable to rotate the wind propulsion device about the at least one axis of rotation when the kit is assembled.

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