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

Abstract

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

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] TITLE: Sail propulsion element comprising a central inflatable cavity and first and second independently inflatable lateral cavities

[0003] technical field

[0004] The invention relates to a wind-powered vehicle and falls within the field of wind propulsion or hybrid wind propulsion.

[0005] In particular, the invention relates to a sail propulsion element.

[0006] Previous techniques

[0007] We know from the prior art a wind propulsion element intended to equip a wind-powered vehicle and described in document WO 2022 / 248812.

[0008] The sail propulsion element described in this document includes a mast, an inflatable sail with a plurality of cells spaced by ribs made of a flexible material allowing air to pass through, at least one air duct disposed between the inside and outside of the inflatable sail, at least one means of injecting air into the inflatable sail, a headboard and a sail receptacle.

[0009] The inflatable sail described in document WO 2022 / 248812 has a profile that remains permanently symmetrical when inflated, regardless of the movement of the wind-powered vehicle, the orientation of the inflatable sail, and the direction and intensity of the wind.

[0010] Depending on the wind direction, a symmetrical inflatable sail does not generate the best propulsive force.

[0011] The invention aims to increase the propulsive force generated by a sail propulsion element equipped with an inflatable sail, particularly when the wind arrives from a direction forming an angle with the chord line of the inflatable sail, the chord line being the direction running from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the inflatable sail. Description of the invention

[0012] The invention relates to a sail propulsion element comprising: a mast; an inflatable wing having a central inflatable sail internally delimiting a central inflatable cavity, and having various curves forming bulges, the inflatable wing having an upper part, a lower part, a leading edge and a trailing edge; a headboard disposed on the upper part of the inflatable wing; and a sail receptacle disposed on the lower part of the inflatable wing.

[0013] The inflatable wing also includes: a first inflatable lateral sail internally delimiting a first inflatable lateral cavity; and a second inflatable lateral sail internally delimiting a second inflatable lateral cavity.

[0014] The first and second lateral inflatable cavities are arranged laterally at least partly on either side of the central inflatable cavity.

[0015] The first and second lateral inflatable cavities are inflatable independently of each other and independently of the central inflatable cavity.

[0016] The first and second lateral inflatable cavities, which are independently inflatable, allow for an asymmetrical profile of the sail propulsion element and improve its performance according to the direction and sense of the wind.

[0017] The central inflatable sail comprises a plurality of partitions made of an air-permeable material and extending each into the central inflatable cavity from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the inflatable wing, the partitions delimiting a plurality of cells in the direction of the span of the central inflatable sail and being attached to the central inflatable sail.The definition of "the first and second lateral inflatable cavities are arranged laterally at least partly on either side of the central inflatable cavity" means that at least part of the first lateral inflatable cavity extends along at least part of the central inflatable cavity on a first lateral side of the inflatable wing and that at least part of the second lateral inflatable cavity extends along at least part of the central inflatable cavity on a second lateral side of the inflatable wing which is opposite the first lateral side with respect to the central inflatable cavity.

[0018] The leading edge is the front part of an airfoil. The leading edge contains the stagnation point where the flow of an incident fluid splits in two.

[0019] The trailing edge is the rear part of the airfoil considered in the direction of fluid flow.

[0020] The headrest at least partially follows the upper contour of the inflatable sails.

[0021] The sail receptacle is designed to accommodate deflated inflatable sails. It can integrate other functions such as absorbing tension forces exerted by the inflatable sails, housing actuators, sensors, or a control unit for the inflatable sails.

[0022] The mast can be telescopic or non-extendable.

[0023] When the mast is telescopic, it consists of different elements capable of sliding successively relative to each other to extend or retract.

[0024] When the mast is telescopic, the head is fixed to the upper element of the telescopic mast and is able to maintain a degree of freedom in rotation around a longitudinal axis of the mast, the upper element of the mast being able to rotate around the longitudinal axis or the head being able to rotate around the mast.

[0025] When the mast is inextensible, the head is movable along the mast.

[0026] The telescopic or non-extendable mast may be free to rotate relative to the hull. Alternatively, the mast may be fixed, at least in rotation, relative to the hull. Preferably, the mast extends longitudinally within the central inflatable cavity of the inflatable wing.

[0027] The inflatable sails are attached to the headrest so that they go down or up at the same time as the headrest.

[0028] The headboard has sufficient rigidity to transmit various physical forces from the inflatable sails to the mast and to support the weight of the inflatable sails.

[0029] The control unit can be configured to control the angle of the inflatable sails relative to the wind.

[0030] The control unit may also be capable of controlling the raising and lowering of inflatable sails.

[0031] Preferably, the central inflatable sail extends from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the inflatable wing.

[0032] Advantageously, the central inflatable sail includes at least one central canvas forming the central inflatable cavity.

[0033] The central inflatable sail may comprise two central sails connected to each other around their perimeter and forming the central inflatable cavity.

[0034] Preferably, the first inflatable side sail extends from the trailing edge to the leading edge of the inflatable wing, the second inflatable side sail extending from the trailing edge to the leading edge of the inflatable wing.

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

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

[0037] According to the first design, each partition made of an air-permeable material extends within the central inflatable cavity from the leading edge to the trailing edge of said inflatable wing. According to a second alternative design, said central inflatable sail extends from the leading edge to the trailing edge of said inflatable wing, remaining at a distance from said trailing edge, in particular said central inflatable sail extending from the leading edge to the trailing edge over a length between 50% and 80% of the wing length that is taken between the leading and trailing edges of said inflatable wing.

[0038] According to the second design, each partition made of an air-permeable material extends in the central inflatable cavity from the leading edge to the trailing edge of said inflatable wing while remaining at a distance from said trailing edge, in particular each partition made of an air-permeable material extending from the leading edge to the trailing edge over a length between 50% and 80% of the wing length which is taken between the leading and trailing edges of said inflatable wing.

[0039] According to a first variant of the first and second designs, the said first and second inflatable side sails extend from the leading edge to the trailing edge of said inflatable wing.

[0040] According to a second alternative variant of the first and second designs, said first and second inflatable side sails extend from the trailing edge to the leading edge of said inflatable wing while remaining at a distance from said leading edge, in particular said first and second inflatable side sails extending from said trailing edge to said leading edge over a length between 60% and 80% of the wing length.

[0041] Advantageously, according to the first variant, the first inflatable side sail comprises the first side sail extending from the trailing edge to the leading edge of said inflatable wing, the second inflatable side sail comprising the second side sail extending from the trailing edge to the leading edge of said inflatable wing, the ends of the first and second side sails which are located on the trailing edge side of said inflatable wing being fixed with respect to said trailing edge, the ends of the first and second side sails which are located on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing being joined to each other.

[0042] Advantageously, the joined ends of the first and second side panels which are located on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing are fixed relative to said leading edge.

[0043] Alternatively, the joined ends of the first and second side panels which are located on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing are movable relative to said leading edge, in particular between at least a first lateral position in which the volume of the first lateral inflatable cavity is strictly greater than the volume of the second lateral inflatable cavity, and a second lateral position in which the volume of the first lateral inflatable cavity is strictly less than the volume of the second lateral inflatable cavity.

[0044] The joined ends of the first and second side canvases, which are movable relative to the leading edge, allow the second side canvas to be pressed against the central inflatable sail when the first side inflatable cavity is inflated and the second side inflatable cavity is deflated, and to be pressed against the central inflatable sail when the second side inflatable cavity is inflated and the first side inflatable cavity is deflated.

[0045] Advantageously, according to the second variant, the first inflatable side sail comprises the first side sail extending from the trailing edge towards the leading edge of said inflatable wing, the second inflatable side sail comprising the second side sail extending from the trailing edge towards the leading edge of said inflatable wing, the ends of the first and second side sails which are located on the trailing edge side of said inflatable wing being fixed with respect to said trailing edge, the ends of the first and second side sails which are located on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing are joined to the central inflatable sail respectively on a first and a second side of the inflatable wing.According to a first particular design, the sail propulsion element comprises at least one first air injection opening in the first lateral inflatable cavity formed on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing, and at least one second air injection opening in the second lateral inflatable cavity formed on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing.

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0052] Each first conduit that extends the first associated air injection opening towards said leading edge permits the injection of air into the first lateral inflatable cavity when the wind is coming from the side of the second lateral inflatable sail, and prevents the injection of air into the first lateral inflatable cavity when the wind is coming from the side of the first lateral inflatable sail.

[0053] Similarly, each second conduit that extends the second associated air injection opening towards said leading edge permits the injection of air into the second lateral inflatable cavity when the wind is coming from the side of the first lateral inflatable sail, and prevents the injection of air into the second lateral inflatable cavity when the wind is coming from the side of the second lateral inflatable sail.

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0060] This minimizes friction between the different layers of fabric.

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

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

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

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

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

[0066] Advantageously, the sail propulsion element includes a first pressure-sensing means arranged in the first lateral inflatable cavity, and a second pressure-sensing means arranged in the second lateral inflatable cavity. The control unit may be capable of controlling the operation of the first and second lateral air injection devices based on signals from the first and second pressure-sensing means.

[0067] Advantageously, the sail propulsion element includes at least one means for detecting the direction and sense of the wind.

[0068] The control unit may be capable of controlling the operation of the first and second lateral air injection devices according to signals from said wind direction and sense detection means.

[0069] According to one variant, the sail propulsion element comprises a first plurality of wires connecting each of said permeable partitions to the first lateral fabric, and a second plurality of wires connecting each of said permeable partitions to the second lateral fabric, in particular the wires of the first plurality of wires and the wires of the second plurality of wires forming respectively a permeable partition with a density less than or equal to 30 gm 2 .

[0070] The first and second plurality of threads respectively allow the first and second side canvases to retain their streamlined and curved shape when the first and second side cavities are inflated, and allow the first and second side canvases to lie flat against the central inflatable sail with fewer creases when the first and second side cavities are deflated.

[0071] Preferably, the first inflatable side cavity is delimited by the first side canvas and by the central inflatable sail, the second inflatable side cavity being delimited by the second side canvas and by the central inflatable sail.

[0072] The present invention also relates to a wind-powered or hybrid-powered vehicle comprising a hull, at least one wind propulsion element as defined above, the mast of said wind propulsion element being fixed to the hull, and the inflatable sail of said wind propulsion element being free to rotate. Brief description of the drawings

[0073] The present invention will be better understood upon study of the detailed description of embodiments, taken by way of non-limiting examples and illustrated by the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0074] [Fig 1] is a front view of a wind-powered vehicle according to a first embodiment of the invention;

[0075] [Fig 2], [Fig 3], [Fig 4] are cross-sectional views of Figure 1 when the wind arrives along the chord line of the central inflatable cavity, from the side of the second lateral inflatable cavity and from the side of the first lateral inflatable cavity;

[0076] [Fig 5], [Fig 6], [Fig 7] are views corresponding to figures 2, 3 and 4 according to a second embodiment of the invention;

[0077] [Fig 8] is a perspective representation of a sail propulsion element according to a third embodiment of the invention;

[0078] [Fig 9] is a cross-sectional view of figure 8 when the wind arrives along the chord line of the central inflatable cavity;

[0079] [Fig 10], [Fig 11] are views corresponding to figures 8 and 9 according to a fourth embodiment of the invention;

[0080] [Fig 12] is a view corresponding to figure 9 according to a variant of the third embodiment of the invention;

[0081] [Fig 13], [Fig 14], [Fig 15] are views corresponding to figures 2, 3 and 4 according to a variant of the first embodiment of the invention; and

[0082] [Fig 16] and [Fig 17] are perspective representations of a sail propulsion element according to a fifth embodiment of the invention; and

[0083] [Fig 18] illustrates a variant of the third, fourth and fifth embodiments of the invention.

[0084] Detailed description Figure 1 illustrates a wind-powered vehicle 2, for example a sailboat or ship, comprising a hull 4 and a wind propulsion element 6.

[0085] The sail propulsion element 6 comprises a self-supporting mast 8 made fixed to the hull 4 by a support (not shown), an inflatable wing fitted with a central inflatable sail 10, a headboard 12, and a sail receptacle 14. The inflatable wing is further fitted with a first inflatable lateral sail 16 and a second inflatable lateral sail 18. The central inflatable sail 10, and the first and second inflatable lateral sails 16, 18 of the inflatable wing form the sail area of ​​the sail propulsion element 6.

[0086] The inflatable wing comprises an upper part, a lower part, a leading edge and a trailing edge.

[0087] The central inflatable sail 10 internally defines a central inflatable cavity. The mast 8 extends longitudinally within the central inflatable cavity. The central inflatable sail 10 here comprises two central sails 20 connected to each other around their perimeter so that the mast 8 extends longitudinally between the two central sails 20.

[0088] The central inflatable sail 10 extends from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the inflatable wing. More precisely, the two interconnected central sails 20 each extend from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the inflatable wing. The head 12 is located on the upper part of the inflatable wing, while the sail receptacle 14 is located on the lower part of the inflatable wing. The head 12 is supported by the mast 8. The head 12 is attached to the upper end of the mast 8. The sail receptacle 14 is attached to the support.

[0089] The wing receptacle 14 is fixed to the support. The head 12 is movable relative to the wing receptacle 14, which is fixed.

[0090] Mast 8 is telescopic and made up of different sections that slide sequentially to extend or retract. The head 12 is fixed to the last section of mast 8. Alternatively, mast 8 could be fixed, with the head 12 then moving along the length of the mast. Another alternative would be to combine a telescopic mast 8 with a head 12 that slides along its length.

[0091] The canopy receptacle 14 extends from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the inflatable wing. The canopy receptacle 14 is designed to receive all or part of the canopy when it is deflated, and therefore the central inflatable canopy 10 and the first and second lateral inflatable canopies 16, 18 when they are deflated.

[0092] The first and second inflatable side sails 16, 18 extend here from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the inflatable wing.

[0093] More specifically, the first inflatable side sail 16 internally delimits a first inflatable side cavity arranged on a first lateral side of the central inflatable sail 10. The first inflatable side sail 16 includes a first lateral fabric 22 extending from the trailing edge to the leading edge of the inflatable wing.

[0094] Similarly, the second inflatable side sail 18 internally delimits a second inflatable side cavity arranged on a second side of the central inflatable sail 10, the second side being opposite the first side with respect to the mast 8. The second inflatable side sail 18 includes a second side sail 24 extending from the trailing edge to the leading edge of the inflatable wing.

[0095] The first and second lateral inflatable cavities are inflatable independently of each other and independently of the central inflatable cavity.

[0096] The first inflatable lateral cavity is delimited by the first lateral canvas 22 and by the central inflatable sail 10, in particular by one of the two central canvases 20.

[0097] The second inflatable side cavity is delimited by the second side canvas 24 and by the central inflatable sail 10, in particular by the other of the two central canvases 20.

[0098] The ends of the first and second side canvases 22, 24 which are located on the trailing edge side of the inflatable wing are fixed relative to the trailing edge, in particular these ends are sewn to the central canvases 20.

[0099] The ends of the first and second side panels 22, 24 which are located on the leading edge side of the inflatable wing are joined, in particular sewn, to each other by a joining element 25, in particular a seam.

[0100] The sail of the wind propulsion element 6 is made free to rotate relative to the hull 4 of the wind-powered vehicle 2 by any suitable means. In particular, the wind propulsion element 6 includes a control unit (not shown) capable of changing the orientation of the sail relative to the hull 4 of the wind-powered vehicle 2 in order to optimize or regulate the aerodynamic thrust generated by the sail.

[0101] Each of the two central panels 20 is, for example, made of a coated material, particularly a textile, that meets requirements for mechanical strength, watertightness, and fire protection. The central panels 20 may not be protected against UV radiation when the first and second side panels 22, 24 block UV radiation.

[0102] Each of the first and second side panels 22, 24 is, for example, made of a coated material, in particular textile, which meets conditions of mechanical resistance, sealing, and protection against fire and UV radiation.

[0103] The two central sails 20, connected together, form a closed central inflatable cavity. The central inflatable sail 10 comprises a plurality of partitions 26 made of a flexible material, each extending within the central inflatable cavity from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the inflatable support, and here to the trailing edge of the inflatable wing. The partitions 26 delimit within the central inflatable cavity a plurality of cells 28 along the span of the central inflatable sail 10. The partitions 26 are attached to the central inflatable sail 10, for example by sewing, welding, or gluing, and give the central inflatable sail 10 different curves forming bulges. The partitions 26 are made of a permeable material so as to allow air to circulate through the partition 26 in question.

[0104] The central inflatable sail 10 has a profile which remains permanently symmetrical when inflated, regardless of the movement of the wind-powered vehicle 2, the orientation of the central inflatable sail 10, and the direction and intensity of the wind.

[0105] With reference to figures 2 to 4, the first side panel 22 forms a first closed lateral inflatable cavity, the second side panel 24 forms a second closed lateral inflatable cavity.

[0106] The ends of the first and second side panels 22, 24 which are located on the leading edge side of the inflatable wing are fixed relative to the leading edge, in particular these ends are sewn to the central panels 20.

[0107] The sail propulsion element 6 further comprises a first internal air chamber 30 housed in the first lateral inflatable cavity and a second internal air chamber 32 housed in the second lateral inflatable cavity. The first and second internal air chambers 30, 32 are made of a flexible, airtight material.

[0108] The sail propulsion element 6 includes a first lateral air injection device 34, in particular reversible, for example a reversible fan, mounted on the sail receptacle 14 and in fluidic communication with the first internal air chamber 30. The first lateral air injection device 34 is capable of injecting air into the first internal air chamber 30. When the first lateral air injection device 34 is reversible, it is capable of extracting air from the first internal air chamber 30.

[0109] The sail propulsion element 6 includes a second lateral air injection device 36, in particular reversible, for example a reversible fan, mounted on the sail receptacle 14 and in fluidic communication with the second internal air chamber 32. The second lateral air injection device 36 is capable of injecting air into the second internal air chamber 32. When the second lateral air injection device 36 is reversible, it is capable of extracting air from the second internal air chamber 32.

[0110] The sail propulsion element 6 further comprises at least one central air injection device (not shown), in particular a reversible one, for example a reversible fan, mounted on the sail receptacle 14 and in fluidic communication with the central inflatable cavity. The central air injection device is capable of injecting air into the central inflatable cavity. When the central air injection device is reversible, it is capable of extracting air from the central inflatable cavity.

[0111] The sail propulsion element 6 includes at least a first lateral pressure sensing means (not shown) disposed in the first lateral inflatable cavity and capable of measuring the air pressure in the first lateral inflatable cavity, and a second lateral pressure sensing means (not shown) disposed in the second lateral inflatable cavity and capable of measuring the air pressure in the second lateral inflatable cavity.

[0112] The control unit is capable of controlling the operation of the first and second lateral air injection devices 34, 36 according to signals from the first and second lateral pressure-sensing means.

[0113] In figures 2 to 4, the direction and sense of the wind have been represented by an arrow.

[0114] When the wind arrives along the chord line of the central inflatable sail 10 from the leading edge of the inflatable wing, as illustrated in Figure 2, the first and second lateral air injection devices 34, 36 are controlled so that the first and second lateral inflatable cavities, in particular the first and second air chambers 30, 32, are inflated and the sail of the sail propulsion element 6 has a symmetrical profile. Alternatively, the first and second lateral air injection devices 34, 36 can be controlled so that the first and second lateral inflatable cavities, in particular the first and second air chambers 30, 32, are deflated when the wind arrives along the chord line of the central inflatable sail 10.This alternative allows for a thinner sail profile for the sail propulsion element 6 in order to reduce sail drag during the raising and lowering of the sail propulsion element 6. Indeed, it is preferable to orient the sail so that the leading edge of the inflatable wing is facing the wind during the raising and lowering of the sail propulsion element 6.

[0115] When the wind arrives from the second lateral side, as illustrated in Figure 3, the first lateral air injection device 34 is activated so that the first lateral inflatable cavity, specifically the first air chamber 30, is inflated, and the second lateral air injection device 36 is activated so that the second lateral inflatable cavity, specifically the second air chamber 32, is deflated. In this situation, the sail of the wind propulsion element 6 has an asymmetrical profile, and the aerodynamic performance of the sail is improved.

[0116] When the wind arrives from the first lateral side, as illustrated in Figure 4, the first lateral air injection device 34 is activated so that the first lateral inflatable cavity, specifically the first air chamber 30, is deflated, and the second lateral air injection device 36 is activated so that the second lateral inflatable cavity, specifically the second air chamber 32, is inflated. In this situation, the sail of the wind propulsion element 6 has an asymmetrical profile, and the aerodynamic performance of the sail is improved.

[0117] In the embodiment illustrated in figures 2 to 4, the sail propulsion element 6 includes first and second internal air chambers 30, 32. Alternatively, the sealing of the first and second inflatable lateral cavities can be achieved by assembling fabrics, in particular by using first and second waterproof side canvases 22, 24 or a plurality of first and second side canvases 22, 24.

[0118] The second embodiment illustrated in Figures 5 to 7 differs from the first embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 4 in that the joined ends of the first and second side sails 22, 24, which are located on the leading edge side of the inflatable wing, are movable relative to the leading edge of the inflatable wing. In particular, the central inflatable sail 10 of the sail propulsion element 6 according to the second embodiment also includes the air-permeable partitions 26 that delimit the cells 28.

[0119] When the wind arrives along the chord line of the central inflatable sail 10 from the leading edge, as illustrated in Figure 5, the connecting element 25 is in a central position in contact with the leading edge of the inflatable wing. In this central position, the volume of the first internal air chamber 30 is equal to the volume of the second internal air chamber 32.

[0120] When the wind arrives from the second lateral side, as illustrated in Figure 6, the connecting element 25 is in a first lateral position offset towards the first lateral side relative to the central position of the connecting element 25. In the first lateral position of the connecting element 25, the volume of the first internal air chamber 30 is strictly greater than the volume of the second internal air chamber 32. The connecting element 25 being offset towards the first lateral side relative to the central position of the connecting element 25, the second lateral fabric 24 is pressed more firmly against the central inflatable cavity 10 than in the first embodiment.

[0121] When the wind arrives from the first lateral side, as illustrated in Figure 7, the connecting element 25 is in a second lateral position offset towards the second lateral side relative to the central position of the connecting element 25. In the second lateral position of the connecting element 25, the volume of the first internal air chamber 30 is strictly less than the volume of the second internal air chamber 32. The connecting element 25 being offset towards the second lateral side relative to the central position of the connecting element 25, the first lateral fabric 22 is pressed more firmly against the central inflatable cavity 10 than in the first embodiment.The third embodiment illustrated in Figures 8 and 9 differs from the first embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 4 in that the sail propulsion element 6 is devoid of the first and second air chambers, the first and second lateral air injection devices and in that the first and second lateral inflatable cavities are open to the outside of the sail propulsion element 6. In particular, the central inflatable sail 10 of the sail propulsion element 6 according to the third embodiment also includes the air-permeable partitions 26 which delimit the cells 28.

[0122] More specifically, the sail propulsion element 6 comprises a plurality of first air injection openings 38 in the first inflatable lateral cavity. Each first air injection opening 38 is formed on the leading edge side of the inflatable wing and on the surface of the first lateral fabric 22.

[0123] The sail propulsion element 6 also includes a plurality of second air injection openings 40 in the second inflatable lateral cavity. Each second air injection opening 40 is formed on the leading edge side of the inflatable wing and on the surface of the second lateral canopy 24.

[0124] The first and second air injection outlets 38, 40 are arranged alternately along the longitudinal direction of the mast 8.

[0125] The sail propulsion element 6 further comprises an additional first lateral sail 42 which forms a first lateral compartment within the first inflatable lateral cavity. Each first air injection port 38 is in fluidic communication with the first lateral compartment.

[0126] The sail propulsion element 6 further comprises a second additional lateral sail 44 which forms a second lateral compartment within the second inflatable lateral cavity. Each second air injection port 40 is in fluidic communication with the second lateral compartment.

[0127] The sail propulsion element 6 further comprises a plurality of first external conduits 46. Each first external conduit 46 extends a first air injection mouth 38 towards the leading edge of the inflatable wing while remaining at a distance from the leading edge.

[0128] The sail propulsion element 6 further comprises a plurality of second external conduits 48. Each second external conduit 48 extends a second air injection outlet 40 towards the leading edge of the inflatable wing while remaining at a distance from the leading edge.

[0129] When the wind arrives along the chord line of the central inflatable sail 10 from the leading edge, it simultaneously enters the first and second external conduits 46, 48, and is directed through the first and second air injection openings 38, 40 so as to inflate the first and second lateral compartments. Thus, the first and second lateral inflatable cavities are inflated and the sail of the wind propulsion element 6 has a symmetrical profile.

[0130] When the wind arrives from the second lateral side, it simultaneously enters the first external ducts 46 and is directed through the first air injection vents 38 so as to inflate the first lateral compartment. In this situation, the sail of the wind propulsion element 6 has an asymmetrical profile and the aerodynamic performance of the sail is improved.

[0131] When the wind arrives from the first lateral side, it simultaneously enters the second external ducts 48 and is directed through the second air injection vents 40 so as to inflate the second lateral compartment. In this situation, the sail of the wind propulsion element 6 has an asymmetrical profile and the aerodynamic performance of the sail is improved.

[0132] The fourth embodiment illustrated in Figures 10 and 11 differs from the third embodiment illustrated in Figures 8 and 10 in that each first external duct 46 extends from a first air injection port 38 towards the leading edge of the inflatable wing and beyond the leading edge. Similarly, each second external duct 48 extends from a second air injection port 40 towards the leading edge of the inflatable wing and beyond the leading edge. In particular, the central inflatable sail 10 of the sail propulsion element 6 according to the fourth embodiment also includes the air-permeable partitions 26 that delimit the cells 28.

[0133] When the wind arrives along the chord line of the central inflatable sail 10 from the leading edge, it does not enter the first and second outer channels 46, 48, and the first and second lateral compartments are deflated. Thus, the first and second lateral inflatable cavities are deflated, and the sail of the wind propulsion element 6 has a symmetrical profile. This alternative allows for a thinner sail profile of the wind propulsion element 6, thereby reducing the aerodynamic drag of the sail during hoisting and lowering.

[0134] When the wind arrives from the second lateral side, it simultaneously enters the first external ducts 46 and is directed through the first air injection vents 38 to inflate the first lateral compartment. The wind is also directed along the sail tangentially to the second external ducts 48 to expel air from the second lateral compartment. In this situation, the sail of the wind propulsion element 6 has an asymmetrical profile, and the aerodynamic performance of the sail is improved.

[0135] When the wind arrives from the first lateral side, it simultaneously enters the second external ducts 48 and is directed through the second air injection vents 40 to inflate the second lateral compartment. The wind is also directed along the sail tangentially to the first external ducts 46 to expel air from the first lateral compartment. In this configuration, the sail of the wind propulsion element 6 has an asymmetrical profile, and its aerodynamic performance is improved. Figure 12 shows a view of a variant of the third embodiment illustrated in Figures 8 and 9.

[0136] In this variant, the central inflatable sail 10 extends from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the inflatable wing, remaining at a distance from the trailing edge. More precisely, the central inflatable sail 10 extends from the leading edge to the trailing edge over a length between 50% and 80% of the wing's length, which is measured between the leading and trailing edges of the inflatable wing. In particular, the two interconnected central sails 20 each extend from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the inflatable wing, remaining at a distance from the trailing edge, specifically over a length between 50% and 80% of the wing's length.

[0137] In this variant, the partitions 26, made of an air-permeable material, extend within the central inflatable cavity 10 from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the inflatable wing, remaining at a distance from the trailing edge. More precisely, the partitions 26, made of an air-permeable material, extend from the leading edge to the trailing edge over a length between 50% and 80% of the wing length, which is measured between the leading and trailing edges of the inflatable wing.

[0138] The first and second side panels 22, 24 are in contact with each other along a portion of the inflatable wing extending from the trailing edge to the leading edge, specifically over a length between 20% and 50% of the wing's length. The first and second side panels 22, 24 are attached to each other, for example by sewing, welding, or gluing, along this portion of the inflatable wing.

[0139] The trailing edge of the inflatable wing is entirely supported by the first and second side panels 22, 24.

[0140] The embodiment variant illustrated in Figure 12 is compatible with the fourth embodiment example illustrated in Figures 10 and 11.

[0141] Similarly, figures 13 to 15 illustrate a variant of the first embodiment shown in figures 1 to 4 in which the central inflatable sail 10 extends from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the inflatable wing while remaining at a distance from the trailing edge.

[0142] In this variant, the partitions 26 made of an air-permeable material are identical to the partitions 26 of the variant illustrated in Figure 12. Furthermore, in this variant, the first and second inflatable side panels 16, 18 extend from the trailing edge to the leading edge of the inflatable wing, remaining at a distance from the leading edge. More precisely, the first and second inflatable side panels 16, 18 extend from the trailing edge to the leading edge over a length of between 60% and 80% of the wing's length.

[0143] The end of the first side panel 22, located on the leading edge side of the inflatable wing, is joined, specifically sewn, to the central inflatable sail on the first side of the inflatable wing. Similarly, the end of the second side panel 24, located on the leading edge side of the inflatable wing, is joined, specifically sewn, to the central inflatable sail on the second side of the inflatable wing.

[0144] The fifth embodiment illustrated in Figures 16 and 17 differs from the variant embodiment illustrated in Figures 13 to 15 in that the sail propulsion element 6 is devoid of the first and second air chambers, the first and second lateral air injection devices, and in that the first and second lateral inflatable cavities are open to the outside of the sail propulsion element 6. In particular, the central inflatable sail 10 of the sail propulsion element 6 according to the fifth embodiment also includes the air-permeable partitions 26 that delimit the cells 28 as defined with reference to the variant illustrated in Figure 12.

[0145] The sail propulsion element 6 further comprises a first air scoop in the first lateral inflatable cavity formed in the wing receptacle 14 on the first lateral side, and a second air scoop 50 in the second lateral inflatable cavity formed in the wing receptacle 14 on the second lateral side. The first air scoop is movable between a position for inflating the first lateral inflatable cavity, in which the first air scoop is open towards the leading edge of the inflatable wing, and a position for deflating the first lateral inflatable cavity, in which the first air scoop is open towards the trailing edge of the inflatable wing.

[0146] Similarly, the second air scoop 50 is movable between a position for inflating the second lateral inflatable cavity in which the second air scoop 50 is open towards the leading edge of the inflatable wing and a position for deflating the second lateral inflatable cavity in which the second air scoop 50 is open towards the trailing edge of the inflatable wing.

[0147] The deflation of the first or second lateral inflatable cavity is done with a Venturi effect suction by means of the first or second air scoop 50 in its position for deflation.

[0148] The first and second air scoops 50 are parts, notably rigid, controlled, in particular by the control unit, at least between the positions for inflation and deflation.

[0149] Figure 18 illustrates a variant of the third, fourth, and fifth embodiments, in which the sail propulsion element 6 is devoid of the first and second additional side sails so that the first inflatable side sail 16 consists of the first side sail 22 and so that the second inflatable side sail 18 consists of the second side sail 24. This variant is compatible with the variant of the third and fourth embodiments illustrated in Figure 12.

[0150] In this variant, the sail propulsion element 6 comprises a first plurality of wires 52 connecting each permeable partition 26 of the central inflatable sail 10 to the first side sail 22 and a second plurality of wires 54 connecting each permeable partition 26 to the second side sail 24. The wires 52 of the first plurality of wires 52 do not cross in the first side inflatable cavity when the first side inflatable cavity is inflated. The wires 54 of the second plurality of wires 54 do not cross in the second side inflatable cavity when the second side inflatable cavity is inflated. The wires 52 of the first plurality of wires 52 and the wires 54 of the second plurality of wires 54 respectively form a permeable partition with a density less than or equal to 30 g / m². 2 .

Claims

DEMANDS 1. Sail propulsion element (6) comprising: a mast (8); an inflatable wing having a central inflatable sail (10) internally delimiting a central inflatable cavity and having various curves forming bulges, the inflatable wing having an upper part, a lower part, a leading edge and a trailing edge; a head (12) disposed on the upper part of the inflatable wing; and a sail receptacle (14) disposed on the lower part of the inflatable wing; characterized in that the inflatable wing further comprises: a first lateral inflatable sail (16) internally delimiting a first lateral inflatable cavity; and a second lateral inflatable sail (18) internally delimiting a second lateral inflatable cavity;in which the first and second lateral inflatable cavities are arranged laterally at least partly on either side of the central inflatable cavity, the first and second lateral inflatable cavities being inflatable independently of each other and independently of the central inflatable cavity, in which the central inflatable sail (10) comprises a plurality of partitions (26) made of an air-permeable material and extending each into the central inflatable cavity from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the inflatable wing, the partitions (26) delimiting a plurality of cells (28) in the direction of the span of the central inflatable sail (10) and being fixed to the central inflatable sail (10).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Sail propulsion element (6) according to claim 4 or according to claim 6 or 7, comprising at least a first air injection port (38) in the first lateral inflatable cavity formed on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing, and at least a second air injection port (40) in the second lateral inflatable cavity formed on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing. 1 1. Sail propulsion element according to claim 10, comprising a plurality of first air injection openings (38) in the first lateral inflatable cavity, each formed on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing, and a plurality of second air injection openings (40) in the second lateral inflatable cavity, each formed on the leading edge side of said inflatable wing, said first and second air injection outlets (38, 40) being arranged alternately along the longitudinal direction of the mast (8).

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

13. Sail propulsion element according to any one of claims 10 to 12, comprising at least a first external conduit (46) which extends said first air injection mouth (38) towards the leading edge of said inflatable wing while remaining at a distance from said leading edge, and at least a second external conduit (48) which extends said second air injection mouth (40) towards the leading edge of said inflatable wing while remaining at a distance from said leading edge.

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

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

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

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

18. Sail propulsion element (6) according to claim 5 or 9, comprising at least a first air scoop in the first lateral inflatable cavity which is formed in the wing receptacle (14) on a first lateral side, and at least a second air scoop (50) in the second lateral inflatable cavity which is formed in the wing receptacle (14) on a second lateral side, said first air scoop being movable between a position for inflating the first lateral inflatable cavity in which said first air scoop is open towards the leading edge of said inflatable wing and a position for deflating the first lateral inflatable cavity in which said first air scoop is open towards the trailing edge of said inflatable wing,said second air scoop (50) being movable between a position for inflating the second lateral inflatable cavity in which said second air scoop (50) is open towards the leading edge of said inflatable wing and a position for deflating the second lateral inflatable cavity in which said second air scoop (50) is open towards the trailing edge of said inflatable wing.

19. Sail propulsion element according to any one of claims 6 to 9, or according to any one of claims 10 to 14 which depends at least on claim 6, wherein the sail propulsion element (6) comprises a first plurality of wires (52) connecting each of said permeable partitions (26) to the first lateral web (22), and a second plurality of yarns (54) connecting each of said permeable partitions (26) to the second lateral web (24), in particular the yarns (52) of the first plurality of yarns (52) and the yarns (54) of the second plurality of yarns (54) forming respectively a permeable partition with a density less than or equal to 30 gm 2 .

20. Sail propulsion element (6) according to any one of claims 6 to 9, or according to any one of claims 10 to 19 which depends at least on claim 6 or 9, wherein the first inflatable lateral cavity is delimited by the first lateral canvas (22) and by the central inflatable sail (10), the second inflatable lateral cavity being delimited by the second lateral canvas (24) and by the central inflatable sail (10).

21. Wind-powered or hybrid-powered vehicle (2) comprising a hull (4), at least one wind propulsion element (6) according to any one of claims 1 to 20, the mast (8) of said sail propulsion element (6) being fixed to the hull (4), the inflatable sail of said sail propulsion element (6) being free to rotate.

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