Flexible Flap Shutter for Vessel Wind Thruster Lift Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wind thrusters for vessels suffer from inefficient orientation of lift force and suction efficiency due to suboptimal flap systems, leading to losses in propulsion performance.
Innovation Solution
A vertically oriented hollow wing with symmetrically arranged perforated zones, suction means, and flexible shutter mechanisms that include a frame with support means to maneuver the flaps between open and closed positions without friction, enhancing lift force orientation and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional rigid shutter systems are used to close perforated zones, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the shutting effectiveness is insufficient and suction phenomena occur outside planned zones
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional rigid shutter systems with flexible flaps made of elastic material. These flexible flaps can conform to the curved surface of the hollow body and create effective sealing when deployed, eliminating suction phenomena outside planned zones while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state of the shutter material from rigid to flexible, allowing it to adapt its shape and positioning dynamically. This parameter change enables the flap to effectively close perforated zones without requiring complex mechanical structures, resolving the contradiction between sealing effectiveness and system complexity.
2Productivity
If flaps are used to orient lift force, then propulsion direction can be controlled, but the orientation of lift force is not always optimal leading to efficiency losses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flaps that can be dynamically positioned to control lift force orientation. By adjusting the position and angle of the flexible flaps, the system can optimize propulsion direction in real-time, improving efficiency while maintaining operational flexibility through simple mechanical actuation.
3Power
If suction means are used to generate airflow through perforated zones, then lift force is generated, but suction phenomena occur outside planned zones causing energy loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and isolates the suction phenomenon to specific planned zones by using flexible flaps to seal off unauthorized areas. This ensures that suction forces are concentrated only where intended, preventing energy loss from unintended suction phenomena while maintaining effective lift force generation.
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
The improved design enhances the orientation and efficiency of the lift force, reducing energy losses and increasing propulsion effectiveness compared to existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
suction means, to generate a flow of sucked air which is intended to pass through said perforated zones and which is directed towards said internal volume
Implementation Method 2
said at least one shutter member consists of a flexible flap
Data Source
AI summary
This relates to a propulsion device for a vessel, including at least one hollow wing which includes: an envelope which delimits an internal volume and which includes a rear part including two perforated zones; a suction device, to generate a flow of sucked air which is intended to pass through the perforated zones; and a shutter, adapted to alternately close one of the two perforated zones. The shutter includes: at least one shutter member which consists of a flexible flap, and an operator structured to operate the flexible shutter within the frame.