ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A PROFILED SAIL; A MAST AND A PLURALITY OF CAMBERING DEVICES FOR A PROFILED SAIL

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an assembly comprising a profiled sail; a mast and several cambering devices (1) for a profiled sail (V), all or part of the cambering devices comprising: an elastically-deformable semi-rigid structure (2) including: two length sections, extending in front of one another, respectively forming a first length section (20) secured to a first surface (S1) of the profiled sail (V) and a second length section secured to a second surface of the profiled sail (V). All or part of the cambering devices have a securing system, activatable/deactivatable, configured to ensure securing of the cambering device on the mast.

Claims

1. An assembly comprising a profiled sail; a mast and several cambering devices (1) for a profiled sail (V), all or part of the cambering devices comprising: a semi-rigid structure (2), elastically deformable, including: two length sections, extending in front of one another, respectively forming a first length section (20) secured to a first surface (S1) of the profiled sail (V), and a second length section (21) secured to a second surface (S2) of the profiled sail (V), a U-shaped connecting section (22), interconnecting the first length section (20) and the second length section (21) at the leading edge (BA) of the profiled sail while extending them, the two length sections terminating at the trailing edge (BF) of the sail by two free ends (23, 24), actuating means (4) interconnecting, on the one hand, the two free ends (23, 24) of the semi-rigid structure, or at least one of the two free ends (23, 24) and, on the other hand, the U-shaped connecting section (22), configured to camber the first length section and the second length section of the semi-rigid structure by tensioning the two free ends (23, 34) with the U-shaped connecting section (22) of the semi-rigid structure (2), or at least by tensioning one of the two free ends (23, 24) with the U-shaped connecting section (22) of the semi-rigid structure (2), and generating an offset (d) between the two free ends (23, 24), and wherein the mast extends inside the semi-rigid structure, between the two length sections characterised in that all or part of the cambering devices has an activatable/deactivatable securing system (7) configured to ensure securing of the cambering device on the mast, the securing system (7) comprising: a first flexible strand (71) connected to the first length section (21) by two longitudinal ends of the first strand (71), the first strand (71) circumventing the mast (M) from the first length section (20), a second flexible strand (72) connected to the second length section (20) by two longitudinal ends of the second strand, the second strand (72) circumventing the mast (M) from the second length section (21), an actuator system, activatable, internal to the structure configured to pass the first strand and the second strand into a retracted state configured to block the cambering device on the mast (M), clasped between the first strand (71) and the second strand (72), inside the semi-rigid structure, the mast held at a distance from the two length sections (20, 21) by the tensioned first strand (71) and second strand (72), and into a deployed state of the first strand and second strand configured to release the mast; and enabling movement of the cambering device along the mast.

2. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the actuator system of the securing system comprises at least one girding actuating member (m) having two longitudinal ends (e1, e2), said actuating member, activatable, being retractable when activated with its two longitudinal ends (e1, e2) approaching one another.

3. The assembly according to claim 2, wherein the first strand (71) comprises a first girding actuating member (m1) and the second girding strand (72) comprises a second actuating member (m2).

4. The assembly according to claim 2, wherein the first strand (71) and the second strand (72) comprise a common girding actuating member (m3).

5. The assembly according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the cambering devices comprise all or part of a spacer system (3) comprising a first spacer (30), interconnecting the first length section (20) and the second length section (21), as well as a second spacer (31) interconnecting the first length section (20) and the second length section (21), parallel to said first spacer (30), and wherein the longitudinal ends of the first strand (71) are secured at two attachment points on the first length section (20) respectively at the junction areas between the first and second spacers (30, 31) and the first length section (20), the longitudinal ends of the second strand (72) being secured at two attachment points on the second length section (21) respectively at the junction areas between the first and second spacers (30, 31), and wherein the mast (M) extends between the spacers formed by the first spacer (30) and the second spacer (31), the first strand (71) and the second strand (72) clasped on the mast ensuring remote holding of the mast with the first spacer (30), on the one hand, and of the mast with second spacer (31), on the other hand.

6. The assembly according to claim 5, wherein each spacer formed by the first spacer and the second spacer (30, 31) of the spacer system (3) is pivotably hinged at its ends, respectively to the first length section (20) according to an axis perpendicular to the plane of the semi-rigid structure and to the second length section (21) according to an axis perpendicular to the plane of the semi-rigid structure, the or each spacer (30, 31) being configured to pivot relative to the two length sections, the first length section (20) and the second length section (21) during cambering and offset of the free ends (23, 24); under the effect of the actuating means (4) the cambering device comprising hinged connectors (32), comprising a first portion (33) secured to the first length section (20) or to the second length section (21), and a second portion (34) receiving one end of the spacer (30; 31), the second portion (34) being hinged to the first portion (33) according to a pivot axis substantially perpendicular to the plane of the semi-rigid structure (2) to pivot relative to the two length sections during cambering and offset of the free ends (23, 24); under the effect of the actuating means.

7. The assembly according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the longitudinal ends of the first strand (71) are attached on the first portions (33) of the connectors (32) secured to the first length section (20) and the longitudinal ends of the second strand (72) are attached on the first portions of the connectors (32) secured to the second length section (21).

8. The assembly according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the actuating means (4) configured to camber the first length section and the second length section of the semi-rigid structure comprise at least one actuator (40, 41), having two longitudinal ends (40a; 41a, 40b; 41b), said actuator (40, 41), activatable, being retractable when activated with its two longitudinal ends approaching one another, said at least one actuator (40, 41) extending along one of the two length sections of the semi-rigid structure, the first length section (20) or the second length section (21), said actuator (40, 41) being internal to the semi-rigid structure (2), contained in a plane of the semi-rigid structure (2), and wherein one of the longitudinal ends (40a, 41a) of said at least one actuator (40, 41) is connected to one of the two free ends (23, 24) by an internal tendon (44) while the other one (41a, 41b) of the two longitudinal ends of said at least one actuator (40, 41) is connected either to an anchor point (221, 222) secured to the U-shaped connecting section (22), or to the other one of the two free ends (23, 24) via a deflector (43) secured to the U-shaped connecting section (22) by an external tendon (42), the flexible external tendon (42) passing outside the semi-rigid structure (2), and the profiled sail between the deflector (43) and respectively said other one of the two free ends (23, 24).

9. The assembly according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the actuating means (4) are configured to selectively camber the semi-rigid structure: in a first cambered position (Pc1) in which said first length section (20) has a concave profile when said second length section (21) has a convex profile, in a second cambered position (Pc2) in which said second length section (21) has a concave profile when said first length section (20) has a convex profile.

10. The assembly according to one of claims 8 and 9, wherein said at least one actuator of the actuating means comprises: a first actuator (40) configured to camber the semi-rigid structure in said first cambered position (Pc1), extending along the first length section (20), inside the semi-rigid structure, secured at one (40b) of its longitudinal ends to the external tendon (42), connected, on the one hand, to the free end (23) of the first length section (20) by said external tendon (42), flexible, which is external to the semi-rigid structure (2), via a first deflector (431) secured to the connecting section (22), U-shaped, the flexible external tendon (42) passing outside the semi-rigid structure (2), and the profiled sail between the first deflector (431) and respectively the free end (23) of the first length section (20), the flexible external tendon (42) being internal to the semi-rigid structure between the first deflector (431) and said first actuator (40), the first actuator (40) being secured at the other one of its longitudinal ends to the internal tendon (44), said first actuator (40) connected; on the other hand; to the free end (24) of said second length section (21) by said internal tendon (44), which runs along the first length section (20) up to a guide (45) secured to said first length section (20) before connecting said free end (24) of said second length section (21), the first actuator (40) being configured, in an active state, to retract and pull on the two free ends (23, 24) connected by the external tendon (42) and the internal tendon (44), on the one hand, and on the first deflector (431), on the other hand, until the creation of the shift (d), the end (24) connected by the internal tendon (44) advancing towards the leading edge (BA) relative to the free end (23) connected by the external tendon (42) while causing cambering of the semi-rigid structure, the loaded external tendon (42) deviating from the first length section (20) which takes on a concave profile, the second length section (21) taking on a convex profile in said first cambered position (Pc1), a second actuator (41) configured to camber the semi-rigid structure in said second cambered position (Pc2), extending along the second length section (21) inside the semi-rigid structure, secured at one of its longitudinal ends to an external tendon (42), connected, on the one hand, to the free end (24) of the second length section (21) by the external tendon (42), flexible, which is external to the semi-rigid structure (2), via a second deflector (432) secured to the U-shaped connecting section, the flexible external tendon (42) passing outside the semi-rigid structure (2), and the profiled sail between the second deflector (432) and respectively the free end (24) of the second length section (21), the flexible external tendon (42) being internal to the semi-rigid structure between the second deflector (432) and said second actuator (41), the second actuator (41) being secured at the other one of its longitudinal ends to the internal tendon (44), said second actuator (41) connected, on the other hand, to the free end (23) of said first length section (21) by said internal tendon (44) which runs along the second length section (21) up to a guide (45) secured to said second length section (21) before connecting the free end (23) of said first length section (20), the second actuator (41) being configured, in an active state, to retract and pull on the two free ends (23, 24) connected by the external tendon (42) and the internal tendon (44), on the one hand, and on the second deflector (432), on the other hand, until the creation of the shift (d), the free end (23) connected by the internal tendon (44) advancing towards the leading edge (BA) relative to the free end (24) connected by the external tendon (42) while causing cambering of the semi-rigid structure (2), the loaded external tendon (42) deviating from the second length section (21) which takes on a concave profile, while said first length section (20) takes on a convex profile in said second cambered position (Pc2).

11. The assembly (1) according to claim 10, comprising a control means configured to selectively: activate the first actuator (40) while keeping the second actuator (41) not activated to cause said first cambered position (Pc1), activate the second actuator (41) while keeping the first actuator (40) not activated to cause said second cambered position (Pc2), and while the first strand (71) and the second strand (72) are in said retracted state configured to clamp the cambering devices on the mast (M) by activating said securing systems (7).

12. The assembly according to one of claims 2, 3, 4; 8, 10, 11, wherein said at least one girding actuating member (m) of the securing system and/or said at least one actuator (40, 41) of the actuating means (4) is an artificial muscle, being contracted when supplied with pressure by a fluid, and being relaxed when the pressure of the fluid decreases, said artificial muscle having an envelope receiving inside a balloon supplied with or discharged from the fluid, the flexible envelope in particular in the form of a braid, being configured to retract in length when its section increases under the increase of the balloon supplied with fluid, and being deployed lengthwise when its section decreases when the balloon is discharged from the fluid.

13. The assembly according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the profiled sail is configured to be: hoisted along the mast (M), in the high position of the profiled sail, the cambering devices (1) in positions spaced apart from one another, and then secured in a stable position by clamping the cambering devices on the mast (M) by activating the actuator systems, the first strand and the second strand in the retracted state clasping the mast, sprawled along the mast (M) in the low position of the profiled sail, the cambering devices (1) in positions close to one another, in the deployed state of the first strand and second strand releasing the mast.

14. The assembly according to claims 12 and 13, wherein the artificial muscles of the actuators (40, 41) and/or of the girding actuating members (m) of the plurality of cambering devices (1) are supplied with fluid by one or more flexible, serpentine-like shaped, elastic hoses (AL1, AL2, AL3) extending in the direction of the height of the mast (M), the flexible elastic hose(s) being configured to deploy by spacing the turns of the serpentine in the high position of the profiled sail, and to retract by bringing the turns of the serpentine close to one another under the elasticity of the serpentine, in the low position of the profiled sail.

15. A method for hoisting and securing a profiled sail of an assembly according to one of claims 1 to 14 from a sprawled position of the profiled sail along the mast (M) at the low position of the profiled sail, the cambering devices (1) in positions close to one another, into the deployed state of the actuator system having the following steps: hoisting the profiled sail along the mast (M), into a high position of the profiled sail, the cambering devices (1) in positions spaced apart from one another, securing the profiled sail in a stable position on the mast by clamping the cambering devices on the mast (M) by activating the actuator systems and passing the first strand (71) and the second strand (72) from the deployed state into the retracted state clasping the mast.

16. A vehicle in particular a sailboat comprising an assembly according to one of claims 1 to 14.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0053] Other features, details and advantages will appear upon reading the following detailed description, and upon analysis of the appended drawings, wherein:

[0054] FIG. 1 shows in transparency a schematic view of a rigging including a profiled sail, as well as a plurality of cambering devices in their rest position, the cambering devices being configured to camber the profiled sail, selectively in a first direction and a second direction, the profiled sail being carried by a mast, extending inside the semi-rigid structures of the cambering devices.

[0055] FIG. 1a is a schematic view of the section of the profiled sail, in solid line, in the rest position of the cambering device, and in dotted lines in two distinct cambered positions, in either direction with respect to the rest position.

[0056] FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of the cambering device (the flexible tendon and the pneumatic muscles of the actuating means not illustrated) including the semi-rigid structure, in its rest position, formed of a bent rod forming the connecting section, the first length section and the second length section, as well as a first deflector and a second deflector, each comprising a pulley, the spacer system including the first spacer and the second spacer, the flexible connection system, including the first flexible link and the second flexible link interleaved with each other, and fastening means for the edge of each profiled sail, at each free end of the semi-rigid structure, as well as two guides secured to the first and second length sections proximate to the free ends, ensuring guidance of the flexible tendons.

[0057] FIG. 3 is a view of the cambering device in a cambered position of the semi-rigid elastic structure under the action of actuating means (not illustrated).

[0058] FIG. 4 is a view of the cambering device of FIG. 3, the actuating means being entirely illustrated, including the first actuator in the form of a pneumatic muscle running along the first length section in a deployed (non-activated) state, connected to the free end of the first section by an external tensioner via a first deflector, and connected to the free end of the second section by an internal tensioner, the actuating means also comprising a second actuator formed by a pneumatic muscle, in a retracted (activated) state connected to the free end of the second length section by an external tendon via a second deflector, and connected to the free end of the first length section by an internal tendon, the second actuator deforming the semi-rigid structure in a cambered position by tensioning between the free ends, on the one hand, and the second deflector secured to the U-shaped connecting section, on the other hand.

[0059] FIG. 5 is a detail view of the spacer system of the semi-rigid structure, including the first spacer and the second spacer.

[0060] FIG. 6 is a view of an assembly according to the present disclosure (when the actuating means are not illustrated), illustrating in particular the systems for securing the cambering devices, each securing system comprising a first strand and a second strand in the retracted state of their actuating member, the first strand and the second strand clasping the mast at a distance from the semi-rigid structure.

[0061] FIG. 7a is a detail view of an actuation system of the securing system according to a first possible variant, the first strand comprising a retractable first actuating member, and the second strand a retractable second actuating member, the first actuating member and the second actuating member in their retracted state so that the mast is clasped between the first strand and the second strand, secured in position with remote holding of the mast, not only with the first length section and the second length section of the semi-rigid structure, but also holding at a distance from the mast with spacers joining the first length section and the second length section together.

[0062] FIG. 7b is a detail view of FIG. 7a, in the deployed state of the first actuating member and of the second actuating member, the first strand and the second strand, loose, releasing the mast.

[0063] FIG. 8 is a detail view of an actuation system of the securing system according to a second possible variant, the first strand and the second strand comprising a common actuating member.

[0064] FIG. 9 is a view of the assembly comprising the profiled sail hoisted in the high position along the mast and the cambering devices at positions spaced apart from each other, illustrating in particular elastic flexible hoses for supplying pressurised fluid to the artificial muscles of the cambering devices, the elastic hoses being shaped in a serpentine-like fashion, the hoses being deployed by spacing apart the turns of the serpentine.

[0065] FIG. 10 is a view of the assembly of FIG. 9, once the profiled sail has been sprawled in the low position on the mast, the cambering devices at close positions in comparison with the view of FIG. 9, the hoses being retracted by bringing the turns of the serpentine close to one another under the elasticity of the serpentine.

[0066] FIG. 11 is a schematic view of an artificial muscle in its non-activated position, namely the muscle discharged from the pressurised fluid.

[0067] FIG. 12 is a schematic view of the artificial muscle of FIG. 11 in its activated position, namely the muscle supplied with the pressurised fluid, which causes an increase in its section and the lengthwise retraction of the actuator with its longitudinal ends approaching one another.

[0068] FIG. 13 is a sectional view of FIG. 12 illustrating in section the envelope in the form of a braid, and the (sealed) balloon received inside the envelope supplied with the pressurised fluid.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0069] The drawings and the description hereinafter essentially contain elements of a certain nature. Hence, they could not only be used to better understand the present disclosure, but also contribute to the definition thereof, where appropriate.

[0070] Thus, the present disclosure relates to an assembly comprising a profiled sail; a mast and several cambering devices for a profiled sail.

[0071] All or part of the cambering devices comprise (for each cambering device): [0072] a semi-rigid structure, elastically deformable, including: [0073] two length sections, extending in front of one another, respectively forming a first length section secured to a first surface of the profiled sail, and a second length section secured to a second surface of the profiled sail, [0074] a U-shaped connecting section, connecting together the first length section and the second length section while extending them at the leading edge of the profiled sail, the two length sections terminating at the trailing edge BF of the sail by two free ends, [0075] possibly, a spacer system, comprising at least one spacer connecting together the first length section and the second length section, configured to work in compression and in tension, in order to keep a spacing between the two length sections.

[0076] The cambering device 1 also comprises, according to a first possibility (illustrated in particular in FIG. 4), actuating means 4 connecting together, on the one hand, the two free ends 23, 24 of the semi-rigid structure, and, on the other hand, the U-shaped connecting section 22, configured to camber the first length section and the second length section of the semi-rigid structure by tensioning the two free ends 23, 24 with the U-shaped connecting section 22 of the semi-rigid structure 2, and the generation of an offset d between the two free ends 23, 24.

[0077] According to a second possibility (not illustrated in the present application, but illustrated in particular in FIG. 11 or 12 of the document WO2021/148734A1), the cambering device 1 comprises actuating means 4 connecting together, on the one hand, at least one of the two free ends 23, 24 and, on the other hand, the U-shaped connecting section 22, configured to camber the first length section and the second length section of the semi-rigid structure by tensioning one the two free ends 23, 24 with the U-shaped connecting section 22 of the semi-rigid structure 2 and the generation of an offset d between the two free ends 23, 24.

[0078] As illustrated for indication in FIG. 1, a profiled sail may be provided with several cambering devices in accordance with the present disclosure, in particular internal to the profiled sail. The cambering devices are distributed over the height of the profiled sail. The semi-rigid structure 2 of each cambering device 1 comprises the first length section 20 secured to a first surface S1 of the profiled sail V, and the second length section 21 secured to a second surface S2 of the profiled sail V, as well as the U-shaped connecting section 22, connecting together the first length section 20 and the second length section 21 while extending them at the leading edge BA of the profiled sail, the two length sections terminating at the trailing edge BF of the sail by two free ends 23, 24.

[0079] The flexible profiled sail extends from one of the free ends 23, 24 to the other, passing in front of the connecting section 22; a U-like shape forming the leading edge BA. The profiled sail may be fastened by two sail edges to the free ends 23, 24 via fastening means 6, in particular by pinching the sail edges. Over the length of the two length sections, the first length section 20 and the second length section 21, removable fasteners, such as loop/hook strips may be provided to secure the sail along the length sections 20 and 21.

[0080] Control means are configured to control, together in the same direction, the different actuating means 4 of the cambering devices to camber the first surface S1 of the profiled sail and the second surface S2 of the profiled sail. For example, the cambering devices may take on a (in particular first) cambered position for which the first length section 20 takes on a concave profile when the second length section takes on a convex profile and/or a (in particular second) cambered position in which said second length section 21 has a concave profile when said first length section 20 has a convex profile.

[0081] It should also be noted that an assembly in particular a rigging according to the present disclosure advantageously allows sprawling the sail, along the mast M, the cambering devices (with the possible exception of that one forming the boom); secured to the profiled sail, descending with the profiled sail along the mast, in particular when the halyard is relieved namely in the direction opposite to that of hoisting of the profiled sail.

[0082] The present disclosure also relates to a vehicle comprising such a rigging: and in particular a sailing ship or sailing boat or sailboat, or a sailcart.

[0083] The cambered position can be set during manoeuvres, for example by switching from the first cambered position Pc1 into the second cambered position Pc2 of the cambering devices (with opposite concavity) during edge change manoeuvres, whether tack manoeuvres or gybe manoeuvres.

[0084] The actuators used for the actuating means may be progressive (and not all or nothing) and take on several positions allowing cambering more or less strongly the first and the second sail surface, in either direction. It is possible to set the concavity of the surface of the sail engaged with the wind in order to maximise the force necessary for advancing the vehicle according to the wind conditions.

[0085] The lowest cambering device may simultaneously form a boom, in particular hinged to the mast in the case of a non-pivoting mast), allowing orienting the profiled sail. The boom is oriented according to wind condition in the direction of travel of the ship.

[0086] The semi-rigid structure 2 comprising the connecting section 22 and the two length sections 20, 21, may be formed by a semi-rigid element made in one-piece, kept bent by the spacer system 3; and where appropriate, a flexible connection system 5, which is described hereinafter.

[0087] For example, said one-piece element is a rod, in particular rectilinear at rest and bent to form the semi-rigid structure 2, or a blade in particular planar at rest and bent to form the semi-rigid structure. The rod or the blade is bent to form the first length section 20, the second length section 21 and the U-shaped connecting section 22 For example, the semi-rigid structure may be formed by a bent blade for the boom of the rigging and bent rods for the semi-rigid structures of the other cambering devices (located above the boom).

[0088] Alternatively, the different sections of the semi-rigid structure 2, including the first length section 20 and the second length section 21 and the connecting section 22, may be formed by several structural elements assembled together.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the cambering devices comprise all or part of the spacer system 3 which may comprise a first spacer 30, interconnecting the first length section 20 and the second length section 2, as well as a second spacer 31, interconnecting the first length section 20 and the second length section 21, parallel to said first spacer 30. The spacers have fixed or possibly telescopic lengths as described in WO2021/148734A1 of the present Inventor. It should be noted that the mast extends between the spacers formed by the first spacer and the second spacer. The spacers (first and second) are configured to work in tension and in compression.

[0090] The features previously described in the detailed description are known per se from the document WO2021/148734A1. In use, and according to the findings of the Inventor, there might be risks of breakage when subjected to the fluctuations of wind, in particular when the sail is shaken laterally, because of the repeated impacts between the mast and the semi-rigid portions of the cambering devices, and for example because of the impacts between the mast and the spacers. Such a problem ais actually described in paragraph 152 of WO 2021/148734 A1 which describes, in order to address it, removing the spacers which are damageable elements in the event of repeated impacts with the mast.

[0091] The present disclosure allows reliably overcoming this problem.

[0092] Thus, and according to the present disclosure, all or part of the cambering devices has a securing system 7, activatable/deactivatable, configured to ensure securing of the cambering device to the mast, the securing system 7.

[0093] In its activated state, the securing system 7 is advantageously configured to keep the mast at a distance from the semi-rigid structure of the device while ensuring the deflection of the lateral support due to the pressure of the wind on the profiled sail on the mast. The securing system 7 positions the profiled sail while avoiding impacts between the mast M and the damageable portions of the cambering device.

[0094] As visible for indication in FIGS. 6 to 8, the securing system 7 comprises: [0095] a first flexible strand 71 connected to the first length section 21 by two longitudinal ends of the first strand 71, the first strand circumventing the mast M from the first length section 20, [0096] a second flexible strand 72 connected to the second length section 20 by two longitudinal ends of the second strand, the second strand circumventing the mast M from the second length section 21.

[0097] Thus, the mast extends between the first strand 71 and the second strand 72.

[0098] The securing system further comprises an actuator system, activatable, internal to the structure, configured to pass the first strand and the second strand in a retracted state configured to clamp the cambering device on the mast M, clasped between the first strand 71 and the second strand 72, inside the semi-rigid structure, and as illustrated in the detail view of FIG. 7a.

[0099] Advantageously, the mast thus clasped by the first strand 71 and the second strand 72 is held at a distance from the two length sections 20, 21 by the tensioned first strand 71 and second strand 72, as well as held at a distance from the spacers, the first spacer 31 and the second spacer 32 when present. The force of the wind on the profiled sail is diverted to the mast by the tensioned first strand 72 and second strand 72.

[0100] Conversely and when the actuator system is deactivated, the latter is configured to cause a deployed state of the first strand and second strand configured to release the mast; and enable the easy movement of the cambering device along the mast.

[0101] In the case of a fixed mast M, i.e. non-pivoting, in particular with a round profile, the first strand 71 and the second strand 72 clasped on the surface of the mast M, the profiled sail and the cambering devices 1 are configured to pivot about the mast M by slipping of the first strand and the second strand over the surface of the mast, and in order to enable a change in the orientation of the profiled sail around the mast. In particular, such a change in orientation of the sail allows setting the orientation of the profiled sail around the axis of the mast, and/or the changes in orientation of the profiled sail around the mast during edge changes, in particular tacks or gybes.

[0102] According to another variant, the mast may in turn consist of a profiled mast (with a non-circular profile) and pivotably mounted about its axis typically by means of a pivot at the base of the vehicle, in particular of the sailboat. In such a case, the first strand 71 and the second strand 72 clasped on the surface of the mast, the profiled sail and the cambering devices are configured to pivot together with the mast which pivots relative to the vehicle in particular to the hull of the sailboat, and therefore without slipping of the first strand and of the second strand over the surface of the mast, and in order to enable, in particular, a change in the orientation of the profiled sail around the axis of the mast. In particular, such a change in the orientation of the sail enables setting of the orientation of the profiled sail, and/or changes in the orientation of the profiled sail around the mast during edge changes, in particular tacks or gybes.

[0103] In general, the present disclosure may take on (at choice) four mast configurations. [0104] First configuration: guyed fixed mast (with a circular section according to the perpendicular to the mast), the guy wires connecting the mast head to the hull(s) of the sailboat, the first strand and second strand 71, 72, in particular the artificial muscle(s) brought to slip over the surface of the mast; [0105] Second configuration: rotary mast (with a profiled section, namely non-circular, typically water drop like) and held at the mast head by guy wires. The advantage of the profiled rotary mast is that it offers less drag than the mast with a circular section when the profiled sail is partially or totally sprawled: the rotary mast accompanies the rotation of the cambering devices ensuring cambering of the profiled sail, without slipping over the mast. A rotary profiled mast could allow navigation in very strong wind with the profiled sail completely sprawled, by orienting the mast; [0106] Third configuration: unguyed fixed mast, enabling a 360 rotation of the profiled sail around the mast, compatible in particular with a fully automatic management of the angle of incidence according to the direction of the wind, the first strand and second strand 71, 72, in particular the artificial muscle(s) being brought to slip over the surface of the mast, [0107] Fourth configuration: non-guyed rotating mast with a profiled section offering the advantages of the second configuration with regards to the reduced drag because of the profiled section of the mast (non-circular) which can be oriented according to the direction of the wind by pivoting the mast, as well as the advantages of the third configuration; without guy wires, such a configuration enabling a 360 rotation of the profiled sail about the mast, thus compatible in particular with a fully automatic management of the angle of incidence according to the direction of the wind: the rotary mast accompanies the rotation of the cambering devices ensuring cambering of the profiled sail, without slipping over the mast.

[0108] Thus, and as one could understand from FIGS. 9 and 10, the profiled sail of said assembly is configured to be: [0109] hoisted along the mast M, in a high position of the profiled sail, the cambering devices 1 in positions spaced apart from one another, and then secured in a stable position by clamping the cambering devices on the mast M by activating the actuator systems, the first strand and the second strand in the retracted state clasping the mast, [0110] sprawled along the mast M in the low position of the profiled sail, the cambering devices 1 in positions close to one another, in the deployed state of the first strand and second strand releasing the mast.

[0111] The present disclosure also relates to a method for hoisting and securing a profiled sail of an assembly according to the present disclosure from a sprawled position of the profiled sail along the mast M in the low position of the profiled sail, the cambering devices 1 in positions close to one another, in the deployed state of the actuator system, the method having the following steps: [0112] hoisting the profiled sail along the mast M, in a high position of the profiled sail, the cambering devices 1 in positions spaced apart from one another, [0113] securing, in a stable position, the profiled sail on the mast by clamping the cambering devices on the mast M by activating the actuator systems and passing the first strand 71 and the second strand 72 from the deployed state into the retracted state clasping the mast.

[0114] As regards the first and second spacers 30, 31, it should be noted that such spacers 30, 31 promote the reliable and firm clamping of the mast by the first strand 71 and the second strand 72, by the compressive work of the spacers which opposes the retraction of the first and second strands 71, 72.

[0115] In order to optimise the synergy between the spacers 30, 31 and the strands 71, 72: [0116] the longitudinal ends of the first strand 71 may be secured at two attachment points on the first length section 20 respectively at the junction areas between the first and second spacers 30, 31, on the one hand, and the first length section 20, on the other hand, [0117] the longitudinal ends of the second strand 72 may be secured at two attachment points on the second length section 21 respectively at the junction areas between the first and second spacers 30, 31, on the one hand, and the second length section 21, on the other hand.

[0118] Each spacer formed by the first spacer and the second spacer 30, 31 of the spacer system 3 can be pivotably hinged at its ends, respectively to the first length section 20 according to an axis perpendicular to the plane of the semi-rigid structure and to the second length section 21 according to an axis perpendicular to the plane of the semi-rigid structure, the or each spacer 30, 31 being configured to pivot relative to the two length sections, the first length section 20 and the second length section 21 during cambering and offset of the free ends 23, 24; under the effect of the actuating means 4.

[0119] To this end, the cambering device may comprise hinged connectors 32, comprising a first portion 33 secured to the first length section 20 or to the second length section 21, and possibly a second portion 34 receiving one end of the spacer 30; 31, the second portion 34 being hinged to the first portion 33 according to a pivot axis substantially perpendicular to the plane of the semi-rigid structure 2 to pivot relative to the two length sections during cambering and offset of the free ends 23, 24; under the effect of the actuating means.

[0120] Also, the longitudinal ends of the first strand 71 may advantageously be attached on the first portions 33 of the connectors 32 secured to the first length section 20 and the longitudinal ends of the second strand 72 are attached on the first portions 32 of the connectors 32 secured to the second length section 21.

[0121] According to one embodiment, the actuator system of the securing system 7 comprises at least one girding actuating member m having two longitudinal ends e1, e2, said actuating member, activatable, being retractable when activated with its two longitudinal ends e1, e2 approaching one another.

[0122] Said girding actuating member may be an artificial muscle, in particular a pneumatic muscle. Such an actuator has an envelope internally receiving a balloon supplied with or discharged from the fluid. The flexible envelope retracts lengthwise when its section increases under the increase of the balloon supplied with fluid (contraction of the muscle), and deploys lengthwise when its section decreases when the balloon is discharged from the fluid (decrease in the pressure of the fluid). The retraction of the actuator may be progressive by controlling the amount of the fluid supplied into the balloon.

[0123] Such pneumatic actuation systems are commonly referred to as artificial muscles consisting of inflatable tubes inserted into protective braids forming an envelope, such that the artificial muscle contracts or expands depending on whether its internal fluid pressure increases or decreases. Such artificial muscles are described, for example, by B. Tondu and P. Lopez in Compte Rendu de l'Academie des Sciences, t. 320, PP 105-114, 1995.

[0124] Such an artificial muscle is schematically illustrated in its deployed position in FIG. 11 and in its retracted position in FIG. 12, as well as according to a sectional view in FIG. 13.

[0125] When the balloon B is supplied with pressurised fluid (for example air), the section of the balloon increases, which causes an increase in the section of the envelope Ev in the form of a braid in FIG. 11.

[0126] Under the effect of the increase in the section of the envelope, braiding of the envelope generates a force ensuring the retraction of the artificial muscle, by bringing the longitudinal ends e1 or e2 close to one another.

[0127] Such an actuator has the advantage of: [0128] requiring no electrification of the profiled sail, [0129] being a flexible component; unable to be aggressive for the surfaces of the profiled sail, thereby avoiding the risks of tearing, and even able to come directly into contact to clasp the mast without any risk of altering the surface of the mast M.

[0130] According to a first embodiment, the first strand 71 may comprise a first girding actuating member m1, in particular a first artificial muscle, and the second strand 72 may comprise a second girding actuating member m2, in particular a second artificial muscle.

[0131] Such an embodiment is illustrated for indication in FIG. 7a when the first girding actuating member m1 and the second girding actuating member m2 consist of artificial muscles. The longitudinal ends e1 and e2 of the first girding actuating member m1 are secured at two attachment positions on the first portions 33 of the connectors 32 connected to the first length section 20, respectively at the area of junction with the first spacer 30 and the second spacer 31. Similarly, the longitudinal ends e1 and e2 of the second girding actuating member m2 are secured at two attachment positions on the first portions 33 of the connectors 32 connected to the second length section 21 respectively at the area of junction with the first spacer 30 and the second spacer 31.

[0132] According to one embodiment, the first strand 71 and the second strand 72 may comprise a common girding actuating member m3, and as illustrated in FIG. 8. In this embodiment 8, the common girding actuator m3 extends lengthwise and forms the first strand 71, over a first length of the artificial muscle, from a fixed attachment point on the first length section 20 up to a pulley PI forming the other attachment point, then extends over an intermediate length between the pulley and an opposite pulley fastened on the second length section 21. The muscle extends further and finally forms the second strand 72 from the opposite pulley over a third length, and up to a fixed attachment point on the second length section 21.

[0133] All or part of the cambering devices 1 may have a flexible connection system 5, joining together the first length section 20 and the second length section 21. This flexible connection system is arranged in an intermediate position of the structure between the two free ends 23, 34 and said spacer system 3; said flexible connection system 5, working in tension to keep a spacing between the two length sections.

[0134] It should also be noted that both the spacer system 3 and the flexible connection system 5 extend inside the semi-rigid structure 2, in the inter-space between the first length section 20 and the second length section 21, and preferably entirely in the plane of the semi-rigid structure 2.

[0135] The flexible connection system 5 includes two flexible links, including a first flexible link 50 secured by its two ends to the first length section 20, and a second flexible link 51 secured by its two ends to the second length section 21. The two flexible links, the first flexible link 50 and the second flexible link 51, are interleaved at a contact area Zc between the two links 50, 51. The contact area Zc between the two flexible links is configured to slip along the flexible links 50, 51 during cambering and offset of the free ends 23, 24; under the effect of the actuating means 4.

[0136] Thus, and whether the spacer system, when the or each spacer is hinged at its ends to the two length sections (first length section 20 or second length section 21), or the flexible connection system with the possibility of slipping of the contact area between the two flexible links, these two systems promote the offset between free ends 23, 24, when the actuating means 4 are activated.

[0137] The semi-rigid structure 2 may have a profile having a plane of symmetry, in a rest position Pr of the semi-rigid structure 2 in which the first length section 20 and the second length section 21 have a convex profile. As visible in FIG. 2, the plane of symmetry AS of the semi-rigid structure 2 in its rest position extends according to the direction between the leading edge BA and the trailing edge BF, perpendicular to the plane of the semi-rigid structure 2 containing the first length section 20, the second length section 21 and the U-shaped connecting section 22.

[0138] In the rest position Pr of the semi-rigid structure, one could notice that the first spacer 30 and the second spacer 31 extend respectively substantially perpendicular to the plane of symmetry AS.

[0139] In at least one cambered position Pc1 and/or Pc2 of the semi-rigid structure 2 under the action of the actuating means 4, said first length section 20 has a concave profile when said second length section 21 has a convex profile, or said second length section 21 has a concave profile when said first length section 20 has a convex profile.

[0140] According to one embodiment, the actuating means 4 are configured to selectively camber the semi-rigid structure: [0141] in a first cambered position Pc1 in which said first length section 20 has a concave profile when said second length section 21 has a convex profile, [0142] in a second cambered position Pc2 in which said second length section 21 has a concave profile when said first length section 20 has a convex profile.

[0143] According to one embodiment (in particular illustrated in FIG. 4), the actuating means 4 may comprise at least one actuator 40, 41, extending along one of the two length sections of the structure, the first length section 20 (or the second length section 21), connected to the free end 23 or 24 of the length section by a flexible external tendon 42, external to the semi-rigid structure 2, via at least one deflector 43 secured to the U-shaped connecting section, and connected to the free end 24, 23 of the other length section by an internal tendon 44 which runs along the length section up to a guide 45, before connecting said free end 24 or 23 of the other length section, the second length section 21 or the first length section 20.

[0144] Said at least one deflector 43 is located on the side of the plane of symmetry (and not on the latter) of the semi-rigid structure 2 the profile of the length section of which is to be changed (the first length section or the second length section) of the convex profile towards the concave profile.

[0145] When the actuating means allow obtaining the two cambered positions Pc1 and Pc2, two deflectors arranged on both sides of the plane of symmetry respectively allow cambering the semi-rigid structure in these two cambered positions: [0146] a first deflector 431, secured to the connecting section 22, arranged on the side of the first length section 20 (with respect to the plane of symmetry) is loaded to enable the change of profile of the first length section 20 (and therefore the first surface S1 of the profiled sail) of the convex profile in the rest position Pr of the semi-rigid structure 2 up to said first cambered position Pc1 where the first length section 20 takes on the concave profile; [0147] a second deflector 432, secured to the connecting section; arranged on the side of the second length section 21 (with respect to the plane of symmetry), is loaded to enable the change of profile of the second length section 10 (and therefore the second surface S2 of the profiled sail) of the convex profile in the rest position Pr of the semi-rigid structure 2 up to said second cambered position Pc2 where the second length section 21 takes on the concave profile.

[0148] Said actuator 40; 41 is configured to retract into an active state and pull on the two free ends 23, 24 respectively connected by the external tendon 42 and the internal tendon 44, on the one hand, and on the deflector 43 of the connecting section 22, on the other hand, until the creation of the offset d, the free end connected by the internal tendon 44 advancing towards the leading edge BA relative to the free end connected by the external tendon 42 while causing cambering of the semi-rigid structure, the loaded external tendon 42 deviating from the length section, the first length section (or the second length section, immediately next to the external tendon 42), which then takes on a concave profile, and while the other length section, the second length section or the first length section, takes on a convex profile.

[0149] The offset of the free ends 23, 24 allows initiating the change in profile of the length sectionthe first length section 20 or the second length sectionfrom the convex profile in the rest position Pr of the structure semi-rigid 2, and up to the concave profile in said cambered position, in particular the first cambered position Pc1 or the second cambered position Pc2.

[0150] The change in the profile of the first length section 20, in particular from the convex profile in the rest position Pr up to a concave profile in the first cambered position Pc1, is initiated by offset of the free end 24 of the second connecting section 21 towards the leading edge BA relative to the free end 23 of the first connecting section 20.

[0151] Henceforth, the concavity of the first length section 20 may be accentuated by the actuating means 4, by the tension of the external tendon 42 connecting the first deflector 431 and the free end 23 (like a bowstring).

[0152] The change in the profile of the second length section 21, in particular from the convex profile in the rest position Pr up to a concave profile in the first cambered position Pc2, is initiated by offset of the free end 23 of the first length section 20 towards the leading edge BA relative to the free end 24 of the second length section 21.

[0153] Henceforth, the concavity of the second length section 21 may be accentuated by the actuating means 4, by the tension of the external tendon 42 connecting the second deflector 432 and the free end 24 (like a bowstring).

[0154] By external tendon 42, it should be understood the fact that the flexible tendon passes outside the semi-rigid structure 2, and external to the sail between the deflector 43the first deflector 431 or the second deflector 432and respectively the end free, respectively the free end of the first length section 20 and the end 24 of the second length section 21, and even in the case where the flexible tendon is partially internal to the structure between the deflector and the actuator (the first actuator 40 or the second actuator 41).

[0155] According to one embodiment (illustrated in FIG. 4), the external tendon 42 between the deflector (first deflector 431 or second deflector 432) and the free end (free end 23 or 24) is still external to the profiled sail, in particular external to the first sail surface S1 between the first deflector 431 and the free end 23 and external to the second sail surface S2 between the second deflector 432 and the free end 24. To this end, the sail first surface S1 (respectively the sail second surface S2) has a passage opening for the external tendon 42 at the first deflector 431 (respectively at the second deflector 432).

[0156] When the first sail surface S1 takes on a concave surface under the action of the first length section 20, the external tendon 42 also deviates from this first surface S1 of the profiled sail.

[0157] When the second sail surface S2 takes on a concave surface under the action of the second length section 21, the external tendon 42 also deviates from this first surface S2 of the profiled sail.

[0158] According to one embodiment (illustrated in FIG. 4), the actuating means comprise: [0159] a first actuator 40 configured to camber the semi-rigid structure in said first cambered position Pc1, extending along the first length section 20 connected at the free end 23 of the first length section by an external tendon 42, flexible, to the semi-rigid structure 2, via a first deflector 431 secured to the U-shaped connecting section 22, and by an internal tendon 44 which runs along the first length section 20 up to a guide 45 of said first length section 20 before connecting the free end 24 of said second length section 21, the first actuator 40 being configured to retract and pull on the two free ends 23, 24 connected by the external tendon 42 and the internal tendon 44, on the one hand, and on the first deflector 431, on the other hand, until the creation of the offset d, the end 24 connected by the internal tendon 44 advancing towards the leading edge BA relative to the free end 23 connected by the external tendon 42 while causing cambering of the semi-rigid structure, the loaded external tendon 42 deviating from the first length section 20 which takes on a concave profile, the second length section 21 taking on a convex profile in said first cambered position Pc1, [0160] a second actuator 41 configured to camber the semi-rigid structure in said second cambered position Pc2, extending along the second length section 21 connected at the free end 24 of the second length section by a flexible external tendon 42 to the semi-rigid structure 2, via a second deflector 432 secured to the U-shaped connecting section 22, and by an internal tendon 44 which runs along the second length section 21 up to a guide 45 of said second length section 21 before connecting the free end 23 of said first length section 20, the second actuator 41 being configured to retract and pull on the two free ends 23, 24 connected by the external tendon 42 and the internal tendon 44, on the one hand, and on the second deflector 432, on the other hand, until the creation of the offset d, the free end 23 connected by the internal tendon 44 advancing towards the leading edge BA relative to the free end 24 connected by the external tendon 42 while causing cambering of the semi-rigid structure 2, the loaded external tendon 42 deviating from the second length section 21 which takes on a concave profile, while said first length section 20 takes on a convex profile in said second cambered position Pc2.

[0161] According to one embodiment, the cambering device comprising a control means configured to selectively: [0162] activate the first actuator 40 while keeping the second actuator 41 not activated to cause said first cambered position Pc1, [0163] activate the second actuator 41 while keeping the first actuator 40 not activated to cause said second cambered position Pc2.

[0164] The first actuator 40 and the second actuator 41 are selectively activated while the first strand 71 and the second strand 72 are in said retracted state configured to clamp the cambering devices on the mast M by activation of said securing system(s) 7.

[0165] These control means may be external to the semi-rigid structure of the cambering device.

[0166] The control means may also allow adjusting the setting of the concavity depth when the actuator, the first actuator 40 and/or the second actuator 41 is a progressive actuator.

[0167] Said at least one actuator, where appropriate the first actuator 40 and the second actuator 41, may be an actuator that retracts when supplied with fluid such as an artificial muscle, in particular a pneumatic muscle. Such an actuator, illustrated in FIGS. 11 to 14, has already been described before, and is not described again.

[0168] It has an envelope internally receiving a balloon supplied with or discharged from the fluid. The flexible envelope retracts lengthwise when its section increases under the increase of the balloon supplied with fluid (contraction of the muscle), and deploys lengthwise when its section decreases when the balloon is discharged from the fluid (decrease in the pressure of the fluid). The retraction of the actuator may be progressive by controlling the amount of the fluid supplied into the balloon.

[0169] According to one embodiment, the artificial muscles of the actuators 40, 41 and/or of the actuating members m of the plurality of cambering devices 1 are supplied with fluid by one or more flexible elastic hose(s) AL1, AL2, AL3, shaped in the form of a serpentine, extending according to the direction of the height of the mast M. The flexible elastic hose(s) are configured to be deployed by spacing the turns of the serpentine in the high position of the profiled sail, and to retract by bringing the turns of the serpentine close to one another under the elasticity of the serpentine, in the low position of the profiled sail.

[0170] Distinct elastic hoses are used for the actuators 40, 41 configured for cambering and the girding actuating members m, m1, m2, m3 in order to be able to control these different actuators independently.

[0171] The girding actuators or actuating members may be supplied with fluid by a reserve of compressed fluid R in particular compressed air which may be accommodated in the hollow of the mast at its base.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION

[0172] The present technical solutions may find application in particular in the maritime field of sailboats, as an improved rigging solution.

[0173] The cambering devices being composed of an elastically-deformable semi-rigid structure, or, where appropriate, flexible actuator(s) in the form of artificial muscles, it is particularly suitable for a marine environment, where the rigging elements might be subjected to impacts, under the action of wind or of unforeseen manoeuvres.

[0174] Advantageously, the systems 7 for securing the cambering devices of the assembly according to the present disclosure allow, when activated, for a better positioning of the cambering devices on the mast, without any risk of impact between the damageable portions of the rigid structures and the mast, while enabling easy sprawling of the sail, when deactivated.

LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS

[0175] 1. Cambering device, [0176] 2 Semi-rigid structure [0177] 20, 21: First length section and second length section, [0178] 22. U-shaped connecting section [0179] 23, 34: Free ends, [0180] 3. Spacer system, [0181] 30, 31. First spacer and second spacer, [0182] 32. Connector, [0183] 4 Actuating means, [0184] 40, 41. Actuators, first and second; [0185] 42 External tendon(s) [0186] 43. Deflectors, in particular first deflector 431, and second deflector 432 [0187] 44. Tendon, internal, flexible, [0188] 5. Flexible connection system [0189] 50. First flexible link, [0190] 51. Second flexible link, [0191] 6. Fastening means (sail), [0192] 7. Securing system (for blocking the cambering device on the mast), [0193] 71, 72, First strand and second strand, [0194] AS. Plane of symmetry of the semi-rigid structure (FIG. 2) [0195] B. Balloon (artificial muscle), [0196] Ev Envelope (in particular braid), [0197] BA. Leading edge [0198] BF Trailing edge [0199] Ev. Envelope [0200] V. Profiled sail [0201] d: offset between the two free ends [0202] ZC. Contact area between the two flexible links, [0203] m, m1, m2, m3. Respectively at least a member for actuating the girding, first and second members for actuating the girding, and a member for actuating the common girding, [0204] Pr. Rest position, [0205] Pc1. First camber position, [0206] Pc2. Second camber position, [0207] R. reserve of compressed fluid.