Wing-Shaped Sail With Wire Rows For Rigid Profile
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flexible sail wings face challenges such as complex manufacturing, risk of tearing, and difficulty in controlling aerodynamic profiles, particularly due to the use of three-dimensional weaving with variable thread lengths and dependence on air pressure for rigidity.
Innovation Solution
A double-walled flexible wing with rows of wires spaced by gluing or welding to inner faces of side walls, forming a crenellated arrangement that maintains spacing and prevents thread interaction, allowing for independent inflation and maintaining a non-deformable rigid profile without increasing weight or risk of tearing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If three-dimensional weaving with variable thread lengths is used to create double-walled textile pieces, then a defined sail profile can be created, but the manufacture becomes complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the single complex three-dimensional weaving process into two separate standard weaving processes. First, two independent single-layer textiles are woven using conventional methods. Second, these layers are joined by interlacing their threads at specific points to form the double-walled structure. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex three-dimensional weaving machines while achieving the same profile definition.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention performs the profiling action in advance during the standard weaving process itself, rather than requiring post-manufacturing three-dimensional weaving. The threads are interlaced at predetermined locations and lengths during weaving, which automatically creates the desired sail profile and spacing between walls without requiring complex adaptive weaving machines.
2Shape
If excessive tension is applied to threads during three-dimensional weaving, then the profile can be maintained, but thread tearing occurs creating orifices
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the tension distribution by using multiple discrete interlacing points along the threads rather than continuous tension. The threads are interlaced at specific locations to maintain profile shape, which distributes the mechanical stress across multiple anchor points rather than concentrating excessive tension at single points, thereby preventing thread tearing.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies local quality by varying the interlacing pattern - threads are interlaced at specific locations where profile maintenance is needed, rather than applying uniform tension throughout. This localized approach maintains the aerodynamic profile where required while reducing overall thread stress and preventing tearing in less critical areas.
3Shape
If double-walled textile pieces with variable thread lengths are used, then a defined profile is achieved, but the chord cannot be reduced at the top
Solution Approach 1:
The invention makes the structure dynamic by using adjustable-length connecting threads that can be interlaced at variable positions. This allows the chord length at the top to be modified by changing the interlacing pattern or thread length, providing adaptability for different sail configurations while maintaining the defined profile through the interlacing structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention enables parameter changes by allowing the interlacing thread length and position to be varied. This permits adjustment of the chord length at the top of the sail by modifying the interlacing parameters, while the profile definition is maintained through the geometric constraints of the interlaced structure. The system can be reconfigured for different operational requirements.
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
Simplifies production, reduces the risk of tearing, and maintains aerodynamic performance by ensuring a consistent and rigid profile independent of air pressure, suitable for sail-propelled and sail-lifted craft.
Implementation Method 1
held alternately on the inner face of the first side wall and the inner face of the second side wall of the envelope by means of fixing by gluing or welding
Implementation Method 2
held alternately on the inner face of the first side wall and the inner face of the second side wall of the envelope by means of fixing by gluing or welding
Implementation Method 3
The maintenance of the profile thus obtained is ensured by the inflation of the sail, this air pressurization being independent of the static or dynamic pressure of the air circulating around this profile
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a wing-shaped sail which has an aerodynamic profile and is formed by at least one closed flexible envelope, comprising two lateral walls, which are spaced apart from each other, between the front (leading edge side) and the rear (trailing edge side) and providing between them an inner space capable of being inflated to form a rigid profile. The invention is characterized in that said inner space is equipped with rows of wires (4) which extend from the front to the rear of the envelope and are held by bonding or welding alternately on the inner face of each of the lateral walls (5a, 5b) of the envelope according to a serrated arrangement, said bonded or welded wires ensuring the maximum separation between the two lateral walls (5a, 5b) in the inflated state of the envelope. The invention also relates to the use thereof for wind-powered vehicles, such as ships, or for sustentation wings such as paragliding or kitesurfing wings, or for producing wind turbine blades.