Segmented Propulsion Wing for Variable Wind Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing propulsion wings for moving vehicles, such as boats, face challenges including variable propulsion efficiency, significant drag forces, and complexity in implementation, particularly when trying to adapt to different wind conditions and directions.
Innovation Solution
A rigid, sectional propulsion wing with asymmetrical aerodynamic profiles, capable of moving between deployed positions and a retracted position, utilizing articulating means and locking mechanisms to adapt to various wind conditions and directions without the need for a mast.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a flexible sail is used for propulsion, then the vehicle can move with the wind, but the propulsion efficiency becomes highly variable and significant drag forces are generated
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid wing is divided into multiple sections that can move relative to each other via articulating means. This segmentation allows the wing to change its configuration between different deployed positions, enabling adaptation to varying wind conditions while maintaining optimal aerodynamic performance and reducing drag forces compared to flexible sails.
2Device complexity
If a symmetrical profile propulsion wing is used, then the structure can be simpler, but the lift generation is reduced compared to asymmetrical wings
Solution Approach 1:
The wing employs articulating means that allow the sections to move relative to each other, enabling the wing to dynamically adjust its configuration. This dynamic capability allows the wing to achieve optimal lift generation in asymmetrical deployed positions while maintaining structural simplicity, resolving the trade-off between complexity and performance.
3Loss of energy
If an asymmetrical profile wing is used to generate greater lift, then propulsion efficiency improves, but the wing cannot be used irrespective of wind direction
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating means enable the wing to transition between different deployed positions, allowing it to adapt its asymmetrical profile orientation to match the wind direction. This dynamic reconfiguration capability maintains high propulsion efficiency across varying wind conditions while preserving the lift-generating advantages of asymmetrical profiles.
4Adaptability or versatility
If two rigid asymmetrical propulsion wings are arranged on either side of the vessel on an A-shaped mast, then usability irrespective of wind direction is achieved, but the structure becomes bulky and difficult to implement
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using two separate wings on an A-shaped mast, the invention segments a single rigid wing into multiple sections that can move relative to each other. This segmentation allows one wing to perform the function of multiple wings by reconfiguring between different deployed positions, significantly reducing structural complexity while maintaining versatility across wind directions.
5Adaptability or versatility
If a rigid propulsion wing with articulating sections is used to adapt to different wind conditions, then versatility improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating means provide controlled dynamic movement between sections, enabling the wing to adapt to different wind conditions through defined deployed positions. This dynamic design achieves versatility while managing complexity by using standardized articulating components and locking mechanisms that simplify the overall structure compared to alternative flexible or multi-wing solutions.
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 solution provides improved propulsion efficiency, reduced drag forces, and enhanced adaptability to different wind conditions, allowing the moving vehicle to maintain optimal performance irrespective of wind direction.
Implementation Method 1
A rigid propulsion wing for a moving vehicle (100), in particular a wind-based propulsion wing (1), allows the moving vehicle (100) to move, owing to the force of the wind
Implementation Method 2
the first section (2) and the second section (3) being movable with respect to each other by means of articulating means (5)
Implementation Method 3
said locking means (28) being able to lock said articulating means (5) in said deployed positions
Data Source
AI summary
A rigid propulsion wing for a moving vehicle, including at least one first section and one second section, a first end and a second end each including attachment means for reversibly connecting to said moving vehicle, said first section and said second section being movable with respect to each other by means of articulating means such that said propulsion wing assumes, and moves from, at least a first deployed position to a second deployed position, and vice versa, in which deployed positions said first and second sections are arranged, substantially vertically, in the extension of each other, and in which said first end, or respectively said second end, are reversibly connected to said moving vehicle by means of the attachment means thereof.