FR3068332A1 - KETTLE STRUCTURE - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a kite structure 100 comprising a leading edge 110, a trailing edge 120, at least a first slat 130 extending substantially perpendicular to the leading edge 110, a canopy 140 extending substantially from the leading edge 110 to the trailing edge 120, the at least one first slat 130 having a leading edge end 131 at the leading edge 110 and a trailing end 132 at the leading edge edge. leakage 120, characterized in that the front end 131 of the at least one first slat 130 is rotatably mounted relative to the leading edge 110.

Description

Kite structure

Technical field of the invention

The invention relates to a structure of a kite intended to tow a floating boat or a rolling and / or sliding land vehicle or also intended to produce energy for other applications. It also relates to a kite comprising such a kite structure. It also relates to a floating boat or a rolling and / or sliding land vehicle or else a platform comprising such a kite or such a kite structure. Finally, it relates to a method for swapping, once in the air, the position of such a kite structure as well as a method of using such a kite.

State of the art

A kite for pulling a floating boat, such as for example a boat or a ship, is difficult to control when it is launched from a deck of the floating boat, when it is recovered on deck, but also when flight when configuring it according to several positions or configurations, such as a free configuration and a boat pull position.

A kite is also used, on a platform in particular, to ensure a winding of a rope, cable or other, followed by a course generating electricity by means of an alternator.

Electricity is also produced by a kite with a wind turbine at a leading edge.

Only, given the current architecture of kites, there are significant risks of seeing the kite being damaged at sea or in contact with the floating boat or the platform during maneuvers. The classic launch of this type of kite requires the complete unrolling of the lines intended to mechanically link it to the floating boat or the platform. This is possible on land but much more delicate at sea. One solution is to let the kite drift. Another solution is to use a specific boat to take it off in the wind and, a fortiori, to recover it. Such solutions are not satisfactory.

Subject of the invention

The object of the invention is to provide a kite structure for pulling a floating boat or a rolling and / or sliding land vehicle, or a kite structure for producing energy for other applications. In addition, it aims to provide a method of using such a kite overcoming the above drawbacks and improving the kite structures and methods of using a kite known from the prior art . In particular, the invention makes it possible to produce a kite structure and a method which are simple and reliable and which make it possible to easily control the kite, in particular from the deck of a floating boat or from a platform. .

For this, the invention is based on a kite structure comprising an at least partially inflatable leading edge, a trailing edge, at least a first at least partially inflatable batten extending substantially perpendicularly to the edge of attack, a canopy extending substantially from the leading edge to the trailing edge, the at least one first batten having a front end on the side of the leading edge and a rear end on the side of the trailing edge, the front end of the at least one first slat being mounted movable relative to the leading edge, the at least one first slat being linked to the leading edge by a pivot connection with a locally parallel or substantially locally parallel axis at the leading edge and perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the at least one first batten.

The pivot link can be such that it allows free pivoting, either pivoting without effort or with negligible effort.

The pivot amplitude of the pivot link, in particular the amplitude of the pivot link on which the pivot is free, can be less than 90 ° and / or more than 10 °.

The mobile mounting of the at least one first slat relative to the leading edge, in particular the pivot connection, can be achieved by means of at least one link, in particular of four straps.

The leading edge can be circular or substantially circular.

The front end of the at least one first slat may have a concave face comprising a cylindrical portion with an axis parallel or substantially parallel to the axis of the leading edge, intended to substantially match the leading edge.

The leading edge and / or at least one first batten may be fully inflatable.

The mobile mounting of the at least one first batten relative to the leading edge, in particular the pivot connection, can be achieved by a seam locally parallel or substantially parallel to the leading edge and perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the front end at least one first batten.

The structure may include a second batten.

A first keel can extend from the first batten and a second keel can extend from the second batten, the first and second keels being of flexible material, in particular canvas.

The canopy can cover at least part of the leading edge.

The invention also relates to a kite comprising a structure as defined above, the kite comprising at least one front line and at least two rear lines, at least one launch line, in particular at least one attached launch line both to a first and to a second skittle, in particular to a front point and to a rear point of the first and second skittles.

A front line may include at least two branches, each branch having a length capable of varying during use.

The kite can be of the traction kite type for a floating boat or for a land vehicle, in particular a rolling and / or sliding land vehicle.

The invention also relates to a floating craft, in particular a boat or ship, or land vehicle, in particular a rolling and / or sliding land vehicle, the floating boat or the land vehicle comprising a kite as defined above.

The invention also relates to a platform, in particular a fixed, floating or mooring platform comprising a kite as defined above, and a device for generating electrical energy, the kite being mechanically connected to the device. of electric power generation.

Finally, the invention relates to a method for passing from a free position of a structure to a position for pulling the structure of a kite as defined above, the method comprising:

a traction step on the at least one front line and / or on the rear lines generating a rotation between the front end of the at least one first batten and the leading edge in a first direction, the canopy is drop down from leading edge, followed by or substantially immediately followed by

- a step of relaxing the at least one launch line.

The invention also relates to a method of passing from a traction position of a structure to a free position of the structure of a kite as defined above, the method comprising:

a step of traction on the at least one launch line generating a rotation between the front end of the at least one first batten and the leading edge in a second direction, the canopy winding on the edge d attack, followed by or substantially immediately followed by

- a step of relaxing the front and rear lines.

The invention finally relates to a method of using a kite as defined above, in particular a kite intended to tow a floating boat from a bridge or a rolling and / or sliding land vehicle or a kite intended to produce energy, the method comprising the following stages:

- sending the structure into the air, the structure then taking a free position by tensioning the at least one launch line, the front and rear lines being relaxed,

- unwinding of at least one launch line, the front and rear lines being unwound simultaneously and kept relaxed,

- implementation of the method of passing from a free position to a pulling position of the structure of a kite as defined above,

- implementation of the method of passing from a traction position to a free position of the structure of a kite as defined above,

- tensioning then winding of the at least one launch line so as to bring the kite back, in particular on the deck of the floating boat or on the land vehicle as defined above, or on a platform as defined above, to recover the kite.

Brief description of the drawings

Other advantages and characteristics will emerge more clearly from the description which follows of embodiments of the invention given by way of nonlimiting example and represented in the appended drawings, in which:

- Figure 1A is a schematic view of a floating boat according to an embodiment of the invention.

- Figure 1B is a schematic view of a platform according to an embodiment of the invention.

- Figure 2 is a perspective view of a kite structure in the pull position according to an embodiment of the invention.

- Figure 3 is a side view of a kite according to an embodiment of the invention, the structure being in the traction position.

- Figure 4 is a perspective view of the kite structure in the free position according to the embodiment of the invention.

- Figure 5 is a front view of the kite structure in the free position according to the embodiment of the invention.

- Figure 6 is a front view showing the kite structure according to the embodiment of the invention, both in the free position and in the pull position.

- Figures 7A, 7B and 7C are sectional views, along a plane perpendicular to the canopy of the kite structure and parallel to the chord of the profile of the kite structure that is to say parallel to the direction wind, the section passing substantially through a first batten, of the connection between a leading edge and the first batten of the kite structure according to a first embodiment of the invention.

- Figure 7D is a top view of the connection between the leading edge and the first batten of the kite structure, according to a second embodiment of the invention.

- Figure 7E is a sectional view, along a plane perpendicular to the canopy of the kite structure and parallel to the chord of the profile of the kite structure, the section passing substantially through a first batten, the connection between the leading edge and the first batten of the kite structure, according to the second embodiment of the invention.

- Figure 7F is a top view of the connection between the leading edge and the first batten of the kite structure, according to a third embodiment of the invention.

- Figures 8A, 8B and 8C are sectional views, along a plane perpendicular to the canopy of the kite structure and parallel to the chord of the profile of the kite structure, the section passing substantially through a first batten, of the connection between a leading edge and the first batten of the kite structure, according to a fourth embodiment of the invention.

- Figure 9 is a sectional view, along a plane perpendicular to the canopy of the kite structure and parallel to the chord of the profile of the kite structure, the section passing substantially through a first batten, the connection between a leading edge and the first batten of the kite structure, according to a fifth embodiment of the invention.

- Figure 10 is a sectional view, along a plane perpendicular to the canopy of the kite structure and parallel to the chord of the profile of the kite structure, of the kite structure according to the embodiment of the invention, in the traction position.

- Figure 11 is a sectional view, along a plane perpendicular to the canopy of the kite structure and parallel to the chord of the profile of the kite structure, of the kite structure according to the embodiment of the invention, in the free position.

- Figure 12 is a perspective view of the kite according to the embodiment of the invention, in the free position.

Description of the invention

The direction in which the floating boat 1 travels in a straight line, in a plane parallel to the water level of a body of water, is defined as the longitudinal direction. By convention, the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, located in a plane parallel to the water level of a body of water, is called transverse direction. The third direction, perpendicular to the other two, is called vertical direction.

FIG. 1A illustrates an embodiment of a floating boat 1, for example a boat or a ship, towed by an embodiment of a kite 10. This kite 10 comprises, for example, a line of launch 13, two front lines 11 and two rear lines 12 as well as a structure 100 provided with a canopy 140. Thus, it is considered that the structure 100 comprises the canopy 140.

The front lines 11 make it possible to transmit most of the traction forces to the floating boat 1. The rear lines 12 are more intended to pilot the structure 100. Finally, the launch line 13 is used for takeoff and recovery of the kite 10 as will be detailed later.

Each line can have ramifications, that is to say that a single line can be fixed to several anchor points on the structure 100. Thus, a line preferably comprises a clamping, one or more wires, or parts elementary of a rope, the section of a line being determined according to the forces to be transmitted. There may also be different numbers of front lines 11, rear lines 12 and launch lines 13, as long as there is, as a minimum, a front line 11, two rear lines 12 and a launch line 13 In the case of two rear lines 12, preferably, each rear line 12 can be fixed at an ear 170, 170 ′.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, a kite structure 100 10 includes a leading edge 110, generally substantially rigid, and a trailing edge 120, generally substantially flexible. The canopy 140, preferably made of flexible material, for example canvas, extends substantially from the leading edge 110 to the trailing edge 120. The canopy 140 is preferably a minimum stretched under the effect of the wind. At least one first batten 130 maintains the canopy 140 at the trailing edge 120. The canopy 140 is positioned above the first batten 130. The canopy 140 is, at least partially, fixed to the first batten 130. preferably, the first slat 130 extends substantially perpendicular to the leading edge 110, in particular from a front end 131 of the first slat 130, on the side of the leading edge 110. A rear end 132 of the first slat 130 is then found on the side of the trailing edge 120. The first batten 130 is part of the structure 100. In the case of a single first batten 130, the first batten 130 is centered, or substantially centered, on the median plane or symmetry A illustrated in Figure 4.

Note that the leading edge 110 is considered to be at the front of the structure 100, the trailing edge 120 then being at the rear of the structure 100. The underside of the structure 100 corresponds to the side towards which the lines extend, knowing that they are generally directed downwards when the structure 100 pulls upwards, the opposite side then being the top.

According to one embodiment, the front end 131 of the first slat 130 is mounted so as to be able to rotate relative to the leading edge 110.

Thanks to this mobility of the front end 131 of the first batten 130 relative to the leading edge 110 which will be detailed below, such a structure 100 of kite 10 can be used in two distinct positions or configurations.

Indeed, a position or configuration of the structure 100, called the traction structure, aims to tow, that is to say to best capture the energy of the wind. This energy is then transmitted in traction forces to the floating boat 1, mainly by the front lines 11, but also by the rear lines 12 of the kite 10. The launch line 13 is then relaxed. The traction position offers either a displacement aid, or all of the energy necessary for the displacement of the floating boat 1. In the traction position, the structure 100 is substantially in the form of an arch as illustrated in the figures. 2 and 3.

The other position or configuration of the structure 100, called free, aims to let the structure 100 fly freely according to the wind without transmitting tensile force, or much weaker forces and not proportional to the square of the speed of the wind on the launch line

13. In fact, in the free position, the structure 100 is then retained in the floating boat 1 by the single launch line 13, the front 11 and rear 12 lines being relaxed. This free position is illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5. In the free position, only the leading edge 110 is substantially in the shape of an arch, this time inverted, as illustrated in FIG. 6.

As illustrated in FIGS. 7A, 7B and 7C, the first batten 130 is linked to the leading edge 110 by a pivot link 150 according to a first embodiment of this link. Preferably, this pivot link 150 has an axis locally parallel or substantially parallel to the leading edge 110 while being perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the front end 131 of the first batten 130.

Preferably this pivot link 150 allows the first slat 130 to pivot freely relative to the leading edge 110, that is to say without effort or without significant effort.

Thus the pivot link 150 provides free pivoting with negligible effort to facilitate mobility between the front end 131 of the first batten 130 and the leading edge 110. The tension forces of the canopy 140 create a resultant force F on the first batten

130, directed substantially parallel to the first slat 130, in the direction of the leading edge 110. This force F then generates friction within the pivot link 150 making rotation more difficult, this is why the stiffness of the pivot link 150 is preferably small. In addition, the amplitude a of effortless pivoting, illustrated in particular in FIGS. 10 and 11, of the pivot link 150 is preferably less than 90 ° and / or more than 10 °.

As illustrated in FIGS. 7A, 7B and 7C, the front end 131 of the first batten 130 has a concave face 133. This face 133 preferably comprises a cylindrical portion with an axis parallel to the axis of the leading edge 110 in order to substantially match the leading edge 110. Thus, by their respective shapes, the face 133 of the end front 131 of the first slat 130 can slide around the circular section of the leading edge 110. To do this, the front end 131 of the first slat 130 is held at the leading edge 110 by means of at least one link, for example four straps 152, two of which are illustrated in FIGS. 7A, 7B and 7C. Naturally more straps 152 are possible. Advantageously, at least two straps are used so as to maintain between the front end 131 of the first batten 130 and the leading edge 110. It also goes without saying that these straps 152, preferably held on the one hand on the leading edge 110 and on the other hand on the first batten 130 by means of fasteners 153, provide sufficient slack. This is so that rotation of the first slat 130 is possible around the leading edge 110. As a reminder, the face 133 is substantially in contact with the leading edge 110, particularly thanks to the force F due to the tension in the canopy 140, wind generated tension. Thus, the large space between the leading edge 110 and the face 133 illustrated in FIGS. 7A, 7B and 7C is not representative, it is intended for understanding only. The fasteners 153 are, for example, seams. Such an embodiment with the concave face 133 assumes that this face 133 is for example rigid, for example made of plastic, so as not to be deformed in the event of a first batten 130 of the inflatable type as will be mentioned later. Thus, in the case of a first inflatable batten 130 and of flexible face 133, the face 133 may have a different shape, for example a convex shape.

According to a second embodiment of the connection, illustrated in FIGS. 7D and 7E, the front end 131 may have two bevels and / or two flattened areas 135 extending on either side of at least part of the leading edge 110 in the vertical direction, or substantially in this direction. Note that links 152, for example a link on each side of the first slat 130 in a substantially transverse direction, are conceivable. These links 152 are fixed on the one hand to the first slat 130 and on the other hand to the leading edge 110 in order to maintain the first slat 130 relative to the leading edge 110. The length of the links 152 however leaves the rotational mobility of the link 150 possible.

According to a third embodiment of the connection illustrated in FIG. 7F, at least two bosses 111 are formed on the leading edge 110. Thus, a boss 111 is found on each side of the front end 131 of the first batten 130 and creates a stop. The front end 131 is then limited or even prevented from translating along the leading edge 110, in the event of slight play between the bosses 111 and the front end 131. The rotational mobility of the leading edge 110 relative to the first slat 130 is not affected thereby. In this case, it can be envisaged that no link 152 maintains the first batten 130 relative to the leading edge 110.

According to a fourth embodiment of the connection illustrated in FIGS. 8A, 8B and 8C, the pivot connection 150 is produced by a seam 151 locally parallel or substantially parallel to the leading edge 110 and perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the front end 131 of the first batten 130. The seam 151 may be a substantially straight seam line over part or all of the width of the first batten 130. In the case of a first batten 130 of circular rod type, the seam 151 may be made over a length close to the value of its diameter. Preferably, the seam 151 is substantially centered relative to the section of the first slat 130. Obviously, there can be several seams 151 and not a single seam line, or even sewing points distant from each other. The front end 131 of the first batten 130 may include a concave or convex face 133 (not illustrated in FIGS. 8A, 8B and 8C).

According to a fifth embodiment of the link illustrated in FIG. 9, a single link or strap 152, or a fabric, or even a cord, provides a retention of the first slat 130 relative to the leading edge 110 while offering a rotation of the pivot link type 150. Thus, this strap 152 extends from an upper zone of the front end 131 to a lower zone of the front end 131, or vice versa, and surrounds, at least in part, the section of the leading edge 110. To do this, the canopy 140 has a hole allowing the passage of this strap 152. In this case, the strap comes to surround, at least in part, without excessive tightening, the edge d attack 110 in order to keep the stiffness of the pivot link 150 low. The strap 152 may have a length substantially equal to the circumference of the leading edge 110 since it does not surround the entire section of the edge 110. Indeed, the strap 152 can d have a minimum length to secure it to the first batten 130. Obviously, several straps a few centimeters wide can be used, a corresponding number of holes in the canopy 140 then being provided for their passage. On the contrary, a single strap 152 very wide, of a width however not exceeding the diameter of the front end 131 can be envisaged. Again, the front end 131 of the first batten 130 may include a concave or convex face 133 (not shown in Figure 9).

Preferably, the canopy 140 covers at least a portion 110 'of the leading edge 110, for example an upper portion 110'. Indeed, it is important that the leading edge 110 keeps an aerodynamic shape, whether the structure 100 is in the free position or in the pulling position. The canopy 140 then covers a cavity 134, generated by the pivot link 150, substantially between the front end 131 of the first batten 130 and the leading edge 110. The cavity 134 is illustrated in FIGS. 7A, 7B and 7C exaggeratedly to facilitate understanding. Obviously, this cavity 134 is almost negligible given the force F having the effect of pushing the front end 131 against the leading edge 110. Note that the canopy 140 is preferably sufficiently long and fixed so as to create a winding stopper for the free position.

A first determined aerodynamic profile is defined by the traction position. In this configuration, the aerodynamic pressure inflates the canopy 140 and gives it a shape participating in the first aerodynamic profile. A second determined aerodynamic profile is defined by the free position. In the free position, the canopy 140 is wound on the leading edge 110 as illustrated in FIG. 7C due to a rotation of the leading edge 110.

Preferably, the leading edge 110 is of circular or substantially circular section, for example due to internal pressure. Indeed, the leading edge 110 and / or the first batten 130 are preferably inflatable. The pressure in such a leading edge 110 is, for example, between 0.1 and 1 bar and the pressure in such a first batten

130 is, for example, between 0.1 and 1 bar. Again, the goal is to maintain an aerodynamic shape.

According to variants, the leading edge 110 and / or the first slat 130 are made of soft material, for example foam, or else of an assembly comprising a soft material and inflatable parts or compartments. Obviously, the leading edge 110 and / or the first batten 130 may be made of rigid material of low density, for example plastic. They can also be made of foam and / or inflatable and stiffened by one or more stiffening elements. These stiffening elements, such as a rod or a tube, are for example made of composite material, based on carbon fibers for example, and have a low weight.

According to another variant not illustrated, means may be provided for inflating and / or deflating at a distance from the first batten 130. The first batten 130, or for example a front compartment of the first batten 130, can be inflated and / or deflated once in the air, the inflation then creating a rotation of the front end 131 of the first batten 130 around the leading edge 110 in one direction, the deflation creating a rotation in the other direction. Note that a low pressure in the first slat 130 favors its rotation relative to the leading edge 110, by folding near and / or at the front end 131 of the first slat 130.

Note that other slats 180, which are not mobile relative to the leading edge 110, are preferably provided to maintain the canopy 140, particularly near ears 170, 170 ’. The slats 180 are thus fixed, at least partially, to the canopy 140. The slats 180 are preferably of the same number on each side of the median plane A substantially vertical.

In summary, not only the structure 100 of the kite 10 can be in the free position or in the pulling position, but thanks to the mobility between the first slat 130 relative to the leading edge 110, the structure 100 is able to swap from the free position to the pull position and vice versa. Also, it becomes possible to take off the kite 10 in the free position and then to modify the configuration, once in the air, in the pulling position, by modifying the lengths of the front 11, rear 12 and launch 13 lines.

Indeed, it is the free position that is preferred to facilitate the take-off phase. To do this, it suffices to relax the front line (s) 11 and the rear lines 12, to tension the launch line 13 and then to give slack simultaneously to the front lines 11 and rear 12 and to the launch line 13 and launch the kite 10. Thus, the kite 10 flies in the wind, without transmitting significant effort to the launch line 13 which can then be unrolled to the desired length. It goes without saying that the front lines 11 and rear lines 12 are then also unwound, without any tension.

To obtain traction forces in order to tow the floating boat 1, it is then necessary to switch from the free position, used for launching, to the traction position. This supposes to relax the launch line 13 while stretching the front line 11 and / or the rear lines 12. This permutation, even generated slowly, creates, by the changes in shape of the structure 100 and the difference in tension in canopy 140, jerks. Such jerks are not pleasant, in particular when the floating boat 1 is pulled only by the kite 10. In addition, they can cause damage to the kite 10 and / or the forward line 11 and / or aft lines 12 and / or launch line 13 or even at their anchor points on the structure 100 and obviously at a fastener 3 on the floating boat 1, l attachment 3 preferably being on a bridge 2.

Conversely, in the event of a change from the pulling position to the free position, the changes can cause a fall in the structure 100, and a fortiori, a fall in the different lines, on the body of water on which the floating boat 1 sails.

Another object of the invention is to facilitate such permutations whatever the strength of the wind. In addition, fall of the kite 10 should be avoided for safety and economy reasons. Indeed, a fall can damage the structure 100 which would cause a loss of time, possible damage and therefore repair costs. In addition, this would require recovering the structure 100, possibly in water, and having it take off again. To do this, in the case of a kite pulling a floating boat 1, a specific boat should sail again causing loss of time and additional costs. Obviously, this kind of adventures would delay, or at least, prevent the floating boat 1 from being helped or towed by the kite 10.

To facilitate permutations, as illustrated mainly in FIGS. 2, 5, 6 and 12, the structure 100 of kite 10 comprises a second batten 130 ’. This second batten 130 'is for example identical to the first batten 130, the second batten 130' being symmetrical to the first batten 130 with respect to the median plane A substantially vertical longitudinal. Thus, such a second batten 130 ′ preferably includes the characteristics mentioned above for the first batten 130, in particular the characteristics relating to the connection to the leading edge 110.

According to a variant, three, four or more slats comprising the characteristics of the first slat 130 can equip the structure 100 with a kite 10, in particular in the case of a structure 100 provided with a canopy 140 of large surface, for example a canopy 140 greater than 50 m ² . Obviously, a condition resides in the symmetry of such slats with respect to the median plane A, knowing that in the case of an odd number of slats, a slat is then centered, or substantially centered, on the median plane A.

Preferably, at least one front line 11 has ramifications 15, 16 attached on either side of the leading edge 110 in a longitudinal direction as illustrated in FIG. 3. Such ramifications 15, 16 are preferably connected to the front line 11 by means of a pulley, a splice or an eye. Indeed, the length of each branch 15, 16 must be able to vary so as not to impede the rotation of the link 150.

Preferably, as illustrated in particular in FIG. 12, the structure 100 comprises a first keel or wing 160 extending from the first batten 130 and a second keel or wing 160 'extending from the second batten 130'. Preferably, the first and second skittles

160, 160 ’are made of flexible material, for example canvas.

Preferably, the launch line 13 is attached to both the first and second pins 160, 160 ’, for example at a forward point

161, 161 'and at a rear point 162, 162' of the first and second pins 160, 160 '. Indeed, the addition of such first and second pins 160, 160 'connected by such points to the launch line 13 create a corridor 200 between the first and second pins 160, 160', into which the wind rushes . Thus, this corridor 200 provides stability to the kite 10 in the free position, in light wind as in sustained wind, without passing on a traction force on the launch line 13. The first and second keels 160, 160 ′ do not pull much and retain a force which increases little when the wind increases. The lift coefficient of the corridor 200 being in front of the center of gravity of the structure 100, it creates a yaw moment bringing the kite vertically or substantially vertically. The structure 100 can then be maintained at its zenith, with an elevation angle of approximately 90 °, that is to say sensiblemert vertically, with a single line since only the launch line 13 is in slight tension . Indeed, in the free position, the structure 100 remains by itself at the zenith, without any external intervention, and it is capable of returning to it by itself if it moves away from this position. For this reason, the free position is retained during the launching phase during which the piloting of the structure 100 is delicate, in particular when the kite 10 operates with actuators which mainly control its trajectory automatically.

Thanks to these characteristics, the transition from the free position of the structure 100 to the traction position comprises:

a traction step on at least one front line 11 and / or on at least two rear lines 12 generating a rotation between the front end 131 of the first batten 130 and the leading edge 110 in a first direction, the canopy 140 from the leading edge 110, followed by

a step of relaxing the launch line or lines 13.

The transition from the pulling position of the structure 100 to the free position then comprising:

- A traction step on the launch line or lines 13 generating a rotation between the front end 131 of the first batten 130 and the leading edge 110 in a second direction, the canopy 140 winding on the edge of attack 110, followed by

a step of relaxing the front 11 and rear 12 lines.

Finally, to use the kite 10, particularly to tow a floating boat 1 from a deck 2, or to tow a rolling and / or sliding land vehicle:

- the structure 100 is sent in the air, the front 11 and rear 12 lines being connected and relaxed, only the launch line or lines 13 being tensioned, the structure 100 then taking a free position, then

- the launch line or lines 13 are unwound, the front 11 and rear lines 12 are also unrolled and kept relaxed, then

a first permutation of the structure 100 is carried out from the free position to a position of traction by tension of the front lines 11 and / or rear 12 while relaxing the launch line or lines 13, this first permutation being facilitated by the mobility between the leading edge 110 and the front end 131 of the at least one first batten 130, then, once the traction phase of the floating boat 1 or of the land vehicle has ended,

a second permutation of the structure 100 is carried out from the traction position to the free position by tensioning the launch line or lines 13 while relaxing the front 11 and rear 12 lines, this second permutation being facilitated by the mobility between the leading edge 110 and the front end 131 of the at least one first batten 130, then

-the winding line (s) 13 kept taut as well as the front lines 11 and rear 12 kept relaxed so as to bring the kite 10, for example on the deck 2 of the floating boat 1, to recover the deer -wheel 10.

As a note, the solution therefore achieves the desired object of proposing a kite 10, for pulling a floating boat 1 which can be sent and retrieved from a deck 2, or for pulling a rolling and / or sliding land vehicle , and has the following advantages:

the mobility between the end 131 of the first batten 130 and the leading edge 110, in particular a rotation, makes it possible to carry out configuration changes in a fluid manner, smoothly, the piloting of the kite 10 during the transition phases between the free position and the traction position and vice versa being possible, the transition phases not generating jerk and being progressive, in particular in the case of a structure 100 with two slats with keels ;

- in the takeoff and recovery phases, this rotational mobility results in the kite 10 drawing less, generating less energy, less dynamic speed and inertia and thus limiting the risk of breakage, in particular of the structure 100 breaks,

always in the takeoff and recovery phases, this rotational mobility causes the kite 10 to remain at its zenith by itself, without intervention or piloting,

- the kite 10 can be used with actuators, in particular actuators installed on deck 2, and thus operate automatically;

- The addition of slats 180, for example to strengthen the maintenance of a canopy 140 of large area, is possible without destabilizing the structure 100;

the structure 100, in the traction position, can be used in static mode, that is to say substantially stationary with respect to the floating boat 1 or the rolling and / or sliding land vehicle, or in dynamic mode, that is to say that the structure 100 moves in the air, in particular by forming curves substantially in the shape of an eight, creating its own speed which is added to the wind speed.

The term “rolling and / or sliding land vehicle” means, for example, a vehicle capable of moving by rolling and / or sliding, for example on snow and / or ice and / or sand.

As mentioned above, such a kite 10 can be intended to produce energy other than for towing.

This energy can be transformed into electricity, in particular by means of a yoyo-type alternator winch system. The controllable mode, that is to say in the pull position, is used in the electricity production phase and the free mode, or free position, is used in the rewind phase. This energy can also be used to pump water and / or to desalt seawater, for example by reverse osmosis. Preferably, this energy is produced by the path of the structure 100 in the sky, in particular in dynamic mode, and can be recovered in the form of alternative movements for example.

To do this, the kite 10 can be connected to a floating boat 1, or to a land vehicle, on which it is desired to recover this energy. In this case, the energy generated by the kite 10 is not 100% devolved to the traction of the floating boat 1 or of the land vehicle.

FIG. 1B illustrates a kite 10 connected to a platform 5. The platform 5 is fixed relative to the ground, for example directly installed on the ground, or of the floating platform 5 type, or even platform 5 at anchor, that is to say partly submerged and immobile relative to the ground. In a variant not illustrated, the platform 5 is made up of part of the ground. In these cases, the kite 10 is entirely devoted to producing energy, possibly transformed before being exploited.

Thus, the kite 10 can be mechanically connected to a device 4 for generating electrical energy. Such a device 4 for generating electrical energy can comprise a stator 41 and a movable element 42 relative to the stator 41. The kite 10 is then mechanically connected to the movable element 42.

Between the two configurations, namely free and traction, the structure 100 loses its stability. The kite 10 therefore risks falling into the water, the ground, against or onto the floating boat 1. The transition between the two configurations must therefore be carried out quickly to prevent the kite 10 from falling. The use of two slats 130, 130 ’and two keels 160, 160’ then makes it possible to limit the necessary angle of rotation of the leading edge 110 and to achieve a smooth transition between the two configurations. In addition, in the transition phase, the kite 10 can be controlled automatically which prevents it from falling.

A keelless configuration requires a greater angle of rotation of the leading edge 110 during the transition between the two configurations.

The embodiments and / or variants described above are particularly well suited to a kite structure 100 requiring the ability to maintain control of the kite 10 towing a floating boat 1 from the deck 2 or a land vehicle, or intended to produce energy for other applications on a platform 5. The invention also relates to such a kite 10. It also relates to such a floating boat 1 or such a land vehicle or such a platform 5 Finally, it relates to a process for passing from the free position to the traction position, and vice versa, of a kite structure 100 10 as well as a method of using such a kite 10.

In summary, the embodiments and / or variants described make it possible to easily send and recover a kite 10, in particular from the deck 2 of a floating boat 1 and / or to minimize the energy consumption in the phase rewinding when using a kite 10 for the production of electricity using yoyo type cycles.

Claims (18)

1. Structure (100) of a kite (10) comprising a leading edge (110) at least partially inflatable, a trailing edge (120), at least a first batten (130) at least partially inflatable extending substantially perpendicular to the leading edge (110), a canopy (140) extending substantially from the leading edge (110) to the trailing edge (120), the at least one first batten (130 ) having a front end (131) on the leading edge side (110) and a rear end (132) on the trailing edge side (120), characterized in that the front end (131) of the au at least a first slat (130) is movably mounted relative to the leading edge (110) and in that the at least one first slat (130) is linked to the leading edge (110) by a pivot link (150 ) of axis locally parallel or substantially locally parallel to the leading edge (110) and perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the au oins a first batten (130). 2. Structure (100) of a kite (10) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the pivot link (150) is such that it allows free pivoting, ie pivoting without effort or with negligible effort. 3. Structure (100) of a kite (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the amplitude of pivoting of the pivot connection (150), in particular the amplitude (a) of the pivot connection (150) on which the pivoting is free, is less than 90 ° and / or more than 10 °. 4. Structure (100) of a kite (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mobile mounting of the at least one first batten (130) relative to the leading edge (110), in particular the pivot link (150), is produced by means of at least one link, in particular of four straps (152). 5. Structure (100) of a kite (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the leading edge (110) is of circular or substantially circular section. 6. Structure (100) of a kite (10) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the front end (131) of the at least one first batten (130) has a concave face (133) comprising a portion cylindrical with an axis parallel or substantially parallel to the axis of the leading edge (110), intended to substantially match the leading edge (110). 7. Structure (100) of a kite (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the leading edge (110) and / or the at least one first batten (130) are fully inflatable. 8. Structure (100) of a kite (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mobile mounting of the at least one first batten (130) relative to the leading edge (110), in particular the pivot link (150), is produced by a seam (151) locally parallel or substantially parallel to the leading edge (110) and perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the front end (131) of the at least one first slat (130). 9. Structure (100) of a kite (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the structure (100) comprises a second batten (130 ’). 10. Structure (100) of a kite (10) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that a first keel (160) extends from the first batten (130) and a second keel (160 ') extends from the second batten (130 '), the first and second keels (160, 160') being made of flexible material, in particular canvas. 11. Kite (10) comprising a kite structure (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the kite (10) comprises at least one front line (11) and at least two rear lines (12), at least one launch line (13), in particular at least one launch line (13) attached to both a first and a second pin (160, 160 '), in particular to a front point (161, 16T) and at a rear point (162, 162 ') of the first and second pins (160, 160'). 12. Kite (10) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that a front line (11) comprises at least two branches (15, 16), each branch having a length capable of varying during use. 13. Kite (10) according to one of claims 11 or 12, characterized in that it is of the kite (10) type of traction for a floating boat (1) or for a land vehicle, in particular a rolling and / or sliding land vehicle. 14. Floating boat (1), in particular boat or ship, or land vehicle, in particular a rolling and / or sliding land vehicle, characterized in that the floating boat (1) or the land vehicle comprises a kite ( 10) according to one of claims 11 to 13. 15. Platform (5), in particular platform (5) fixed, floating or at anchor, characterized in that it comprises a kite (10) according to one of claims 11 or 12, and a device electric power generation (4), the kite (10) being mechanically connected to the electric power generation device (4). 16. Method for passing from a free position of a structure (100) to a position of traction of the structure (100) of a kite (10) according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that that the process includes: a traction step on the at least one front line (11) and / or on the rear lines (12) generating a rotation between the front end (131) of the at least one first batten (130) and the leading edge (110) in a first direction, the canopy (140) unfolding from the leading edge (110), followed by or substantially immediately followed by - a step of relaxing the at least one launch line (13). 17. Method for passing from a pulling position of a structure (100) to a free position of the structure (100) of a kite (10) according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that that the process includes: - A traction step on the at least one launch line (13) generating a rotation between the front end (131) of the at least one first batten (130) and the leading edge (110) in a second direction, the canopy (140) winding on the leading edge (110), followed by or substantially immediately followed by - A step of relaxing the front (11) and rear (12) lines. 18. Method of using a kite (10), in particular a kite (10) intended to tow a floating boat (1) from a bridge (2) or a rolling and / or sliding or d '' a kite (10) intended to produce energy, according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that it comprises the following stages: - sending the structure (100) in the air, the structure (100) then taking a free position by tensioning the at least one launch line (13), the front (11) and rear (12) lines ) being relaxed, 5 - unwinding of at least one launch line (13), the front (11) and rear (12) lines being unwound simultaneously and kept relaxed, - implementation of the method according to claim 16, - implementation of the method according to claim 17, 10 - tensioning then winding of the at least one launch line (13) so as to bring the kite (10), in particular on the deck (2) of the floating boat (1) or on the land vehicle, or on a platform according to claim 15, for recovering the kite (10).