Vertically-variable ocean sail system for ship propulsion
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Solution Overview
Problem
The global shipping industry faces high fuel costs and significant CO2 emissions due to its reliance on fossil fuels, with ships emitting a substantial amount of pollutants and greenhouse gases, necessitating a solution to reduce energy consumption and emissions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a vertically-variable ocean sail system that harnesses wind energy to generate propulsion, supplementing traditional propulsion systems and reducing the reliance on fossil fuels by using sail cylinders that convert wind into forward thrust through the Magnus effect, allowing for retractable and efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional propulsion systems using fossil fuels are used, then ships can maintain speed and power, but fuel costs increase and CO2 emissions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines traditional ship propulsion with wind propulsion by integrating a vertically-variable ocean sail system into the ship structure. The sail system works in conjunction with the traditional propulsion system, allowing the ship to harness wind energy while maintaining its existing engine-driven propulsion, thereby reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions without sacrificing productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs sail cylinders that can change their vertical position and rotational speed parameters dynamically. By adjusting the sail cylinder height and rotation rate based on wind conditions, the system optimizes wind energy capture efficiency, allowing the ship to adapt to varying environmental conditions and maximize fuel savings while maintaining propulsion effectiveness
2Loss of energy
If fuel consumption is reduced to lower costs and emissions, then operational expenses decrease, but propulsion power may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic propulsion system where the sail cylinders can be raised, lowered, rotated, and adjusted in real-time based on wind speed, direction, and ship velocity. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to capture maximum wind energy when conditions are favorable, providing additional propulsion power that supplements the traditional engine system, thereby reducing fuel consumption without compromising overall propulsion capability
3Object-generated harmful factors
If sail systems are added to reduce emissions, then environmental performance improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the vertically-variable ocean sail system with multiple functions integrated into a single apparatus. The sail cylinders serve as both the wind-capturing surface and the propulsion mechanism, while also providing structural support and housing for the drive mechanisms. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity despite adding emission-reduction capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested structure where the sail cylinders are positioned within or alongside the ship's existing structural elements. The drive mechanisms are contained within the sail cylinder assemblies, and the entire system is integrated into the ship's hull structure. This nesting approach minimizes the additional space and structural requirements, thereby reducing the overall complexity increase associated with adding the emission-reduction system
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 solution significantly reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, offering a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative by providing additional propulsion to ships, potentially avoiding millions of tons of CO2 emissions annually.
Implementation Method 1
The sail systems include sail cylinders that rotate and convert wind into forward thrust
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide mechanical sail systems, methods, apparatus, and code which allow use of the Magnus effect to provide thrust to a ship. In some embodiments, a mechanical sail system is provided which includes a silo, positioned below a deck level of a ship, a lift carriage, mounted within the silo, and supporting a first sail cylinder and a second sail cylinder, and at least a first drive motor coupled to a control system for selectively positioning the lift carriage within the silo, the control system operable to control the at least first drive motor to position the lift carriage at a top position within the silo to deploy the first and second sail cylinders.