Vertically-variable ocean sail system

摘要

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.

主权项

1. A mechanical sail system, comprising:
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, the lift carriage formed around a spindle which extends from a horizontal planar platform; 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 said at least first drive motor to position said lift carriage at a top position within the silo to deploy the first and second sail cylinders.