Vertical Axis Wind Turbine Propulsion With Dynamic Frame Locking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Seagoing vessels face inefficiencies in propulsion systems that rely on wind or mechanical engines, as wind-based propulsion is direction and speed dependent, while mechanical engines require fuel, and both methods have limitations.

Innovation Solution

A vertical axis wind turbine system with a locked and unlocked mode, featuring a rotatable frame with masts or blades, controlled by a control system to optimize propulsion based on wind direction and vessel travel direction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a vertical axis wind turbine operates in unlocked mode with free rotation, then it can capture wind energy from any direction, but it cannot transfer wind force directly to the vessel for efficient propulsion

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewind direction adaptabilityVSAvoidpropulsion efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic locking mechanism that allows the wind turbine to switch between unlocked mode (free rotation for omnidirectional wind capture) and locked mode (fixed position for direct force transfer). This dynamic state change enables the system to adapt its behavior based on operational requirements, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and propulsion efficiency

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If a vertical axis wind turbine operates in locked mode with fixed frame, then it can transfer wind force directly for efficient propulsion, but it cannot adjust to wind direction changes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepropulsion efficiencyVSAvoidwind direction adaptability

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism enables the frame to transition between fixed and movable states. In locked mode, the frame remains fixed to maximize force transfer efficiency. When wind direction changes, the system can unlock and relock at new positions, maintaining both efficiency and adaptability through dynamic state adjustment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Use of energy by moving object

If traditional sails are used for wind propulsion, then fuel consumption is eliminated, but propulsion is significantly impacted by unfavorable wind speed and direction

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefuel consumptionVSAvoidpropulsion efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional sail system with a vertical axis wind turbine that uses aerodynamic blades to capture wind energy. This substitution converts unpredictable wind forces into controlled rotational motion, which can then be converted to electrical energy or direct mechanical propulsion, eliminating the dependency on favorable wind conditions while maintaining fuel-free operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Productivity

If mechanical engines with propellers are used for propulsion, then propulsion is not dependent on wind conditions, but fuel consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepropulsion efficiencyVSAvoidfuel consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges wind energy capture technology with marine propulsion systems by integrating a vertical axis wind turbine directly onto the vessel. The turbine captures wind energy and converts it to mechanical or electrical power that drives the propeller, combining the advantages of both wind-assisted propulsion and mechanical drive systems to reduce fuel consumption while maintaining propulsion efficiency

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Enhances propulsion efficiency by dynamically adjusting to wind conditions, either capturing energy through rotation or transferring wind force directly for propulsion, improving vessel movement regardless of wind direction.

Implementation Method 1

The vertical axis wind turbine may have a frame having a frame lock. The frame is freely rotatable about a central axis in the unlocked mode and non-rotatable about the central axis in the locked mode.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectWind power: Wind Power

Implementation Method 2

A propeller is a device with a rotating hub and radiating blades set at a pitch to form a helical spiral that, when rotated, acts similar to Archimedes' screw. It transforms rotational power into linear thrust by acting upon a working fluid such as water or air.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectArchimedes' screw: Archimedes Screw

Data Source

PatentUS12384501B2Propulsion system for a seagoing vessel

Publication Date: 2025.08.12 NICKLAS JOHN MATTHEW

AI summary

A propulsion system for a seagoing vessel includes a rotatable frame and either (a) at least two masts coupled to the frame and each having a sail and a boom, or (b) at least two blades coupled to the frame. The rotatable frame and either the rotatable boom or at least two blades may be locked in position in a locked mode and unlocked and freely rotatable in an unlocked mode. A control system that is in communication in communication with a frame lock and either a boom lock or a blade lock and may be configured to determine when the vertical axis wind turbine should be in either the locked mode or the unlocked mode based on the direction of the wind and a direction that the seagoing vessel is traveling.