Aerodynamic Wing Steering Lines for Watercraft Maneuverability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aerodynamic wind propulsion systems for watercraft face challenges in controlling and steering aerodynamic wings, especially in varying wind conditions, with inefficiencies in load-bearing distribution and force transmission, which affect the overall steerability and maneuverability of the wing elements.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a combination of active and passive steering lines connected to a steering unit, with active lines driven by a drive unit to apply steering forces and passive lines accommodating deformation-induced movements, along with a tractive cable system that transfers forces directly through a connecting element, enhancing control and load distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single tractive cable is used to connect the aerodynamic wing to the watercraft, then the structure is simple, but the control and steerability of the wing is insufficient in varying wind conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The single tractive cable connection is segmented into multiple independent tractive lines (at least three) that connect different points on the aerodynamic wing to the steering unit. This segmentation allows independent control of each line, enabling the wing to be steered and positioned effectively in varying wind conditions while maintaining structural simplicity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control lines are added to improve wing steerability, then the control capability is enhanced, but the device complexity and number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple control functions are merged into a unified steering unit that houses the drive mechanism. The steering unit integrates the functionality of multiple control lines and their actuation into a single compact component, enhancing wing steerability while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The steering unit is designed as a multi-functional device that simultaneously controls multiple tractive lines, provides drive mechanism, and enables various steering maneuvers. This universal design allows one component to perform multiple functions, reducing the total number of separate components needed.
3Force
If the aerodynamic wing is made larger to generate sufficient uplift force, then the propulsion capability is improved, but the control and maneuverability of the wing becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The control of the larger aerodynamic wing is segmented into multiple independent tractive lines, each capable of being adjusted independently. This segmentation allows for fine-grained control of different sections of the wing, making it easier to maneuver and control even in varying wind conditions despite the increased size and uplift force generation capability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration improves the control and steerability of aerodynamic wings by efficiently distributing forces and accommodating wing deformation, leading to enhanced maneuverability and reduced stress on the steering unit, even in changing wind conditions.
Implementation Method 1
the aerodynamic wing having an aerodynamic profile which generates an uplift force in the direction of the tractive cable when the airflow direction is about perpendicular to the tractive cable
Data Source
AI summary
An aerodynamic wind propulsion device is provided, particularly for watercraft, in form of an aerodynamic wing connected to a steering unit located below the aerodynamic wing via a plurality of tractive lines, at least one pair of two active steering lines being connected to the aerodynamic wing at two points in distance and being coupled to a drive unit at the steering unit, a tractive cable, a first end of the tractive cable being connected at the steering unit to at least two of the tractive lines and a second end of the tractive cable being connected to a base platform, the aerodynamic wing having an aerodynamic profile which generates an uplift force, and two passive steering lines are connected to each other to form a continuous passive steering line section passing through the steering unit in order to passively follow a deformation of the aerodynamic wing.