GB2477078A

GB2477078A - Magnus Effect Rotor Apparatus

Info

Publication number: GB2477078A
Application number: GB0914443A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Spiros Contopoulos; Mike Whittaker; Graham Sykes; Nick Dearden
Original assignee: GREENWAVE INTERNAT Ltd
Current assignee: GREENWAVE INTERNAT Ltd
Priority date: 2009-08-18
Filing date: 2009-08-18
Publication date: 2011-07-27
Also published as: GB0914443D0

Abstract

A Magnus effect rotor apparatus, a kit of parts and a method of assembly for a ship drive is provided. The apparatus has a rotor 2 comprising multiple plastics or light weight sections 3a-d for generating drive force from wind using the Magnus effect supported by support element 6 comprising multiple sections 6a-d. They are sectional to facilitate transportation and installation. The support sections may each be a framework of uprights 7, braces 8 and joining plates 9 or may be stacked flanged rings. Bearings 14 allow partial rotor weight to be supported at lower and upper sections to reduce rotor strain. There may be flexible end plate members 4, 5, reversible pitch blades rotating with the rotor to introduce air to the rotor working section. The apparatus may be inflatable or pivotably collapsible. A method of loading or unloading a ship involves collapsing and moving a rotor.

Description

The Magnus Effect Rotor Apparatus

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a Magnus effect rotor apparatus for use in providing drive for a vessel or vehicle using wind power.

Background of the Invention

Wind power has long been used in driving vessels, such as ships. In relatively recent times wind power has been replaced with engines, particularly in the area of shipping.

One factor is the convenience by which an engine can be controlled compared to controlling a wind-powered apparatus.

As is well-known engines burn fuel and the amount of fuel burnt impacts on the operating costs of the vessels and the level of pollution they create, with carbon output being one significant form of pollution.

There is a need to reduce the level of fuel consumption in shipping. One solution is to utilise wind power and combine wind power with engines. One convenient approach is to use a Magnus Effect device as these are generally simpler to handle and control than sails, for example. A Magnus effect device generally has an upright cylindrical rotor which spins about its central axis. Air incident on the rotor as wind flows either side of the rotor and interacts with it at a boundary layer. Due to this interaction, the air flow on one side is faster than on the opposite side. This causes a pressure differential and, therefore, a driving force.

Currently, few Magnus effect devices are fitted in the existing worldwide shipping fleet.

One problem is the cost of these devices. Another problem is the need to build the device into vessels as they are first constructed. Another problem is the need for specialised assembly and installation facilities and skills, which may not be available at a given port. The present invention seeks to overcome problems associated with Magnus effect rotor apparatus for shipping or to overcome one or more problems affecting their widespread use.

Summary of the Invention

In one aspect the invention provides a kit of parts for a Magnus effect apparatus operable to generate a drive force from wind, the apparatus having a rotor element configured to spin about an axis to generate the drive force using the Magnus effect and a support element configured to support the rotor element so that the axis has an upright orientation, the kit of parts comprising: a set of support parts configured for assembly to provide the support element, and a set of rotor element parts comprising rotor sections configured for assembly to provide the rotor element.

In another aspect the present invention provides a kit of parts for a Magnus effect apparatus operable to generate a drive force from wind, the apparatus having a rotor element configured to spin about an axis to generate the drive force using the Magnus effect and a support element configured to support the rotor element so that the axis has an upright orientation, the kit of parts comprising: a set of support parts configured for assembly to provide the support element; a set of rotor element parts comprising rotor element sections configured for assembly to provide the rotor element, wherein the rotor element sections are configured for connection such that the rotor element sections form a rotor element which is substantially rigid lengthwise to allow the weight of the rotor element to be supported at two or more rotor element sections.

In another aspect the present invention provides kit of parts for a Magnus effect apparatus operable to generate a drive force from wind, the apparatus having a rotor element configured to spin about an axis to generate the drive force using the Magnus effect and a support element configured to support the rotor element so that the axis has an upright orientation, the kit of parts comprising: a set of support parts configured for assembly to provide the support structure, a set of rotor element parts comprising rotor element sections configured for assembly to provide the rotor element, wherein the rotor element sections are configured for connection such that the rotor element sections form a rotor element which is substantially rigid lengthwise, a set of first bearing parts configured for assembly to provide a first weight supporting bearing configured to provide weight bearing support for the rotor element at a first rotor element section; and a set of second bearing parts configured for assembly to provide a second weight supporting bearing configured to provide weight bearing support for the rotor element at a second rotor element section, wherein the first rotor element section is relatively below the second rotor element section, and wherein at least one of the first and second bearings are configurable so as to set a portion of the weight of the rotor element supported by said at least one of the first and second bearings.

A kit of parts for a Magnus effect rotor apparatus, comprising: parts configured for assembly to provide a rotor element configured to generate a driving force using the Magnus effect by causing a pressure differential in a working region located adjacent to the rotor; and parts configured for assembly to provide a set of air directing blades located proximate an end of the rotor element, the set of blades configured to spin about an axis so as to force air towards the working region to increase the pressure differential therein.

In another aspect the invention provides a kit of parts for a Magnus effect rotor apparatus, the kit comprising: parts configured for assembly to provide a rotor element configured to spin about an axis to generate a drive force by generating a pressure differential in a working region located adjacent to the rotor element; and plate parts configured for assembly to provide one or more end plate members for the rotor element, the end plate members configured to act in use to constrain pressure in the working region, the plate parts formed from flexible material such that the or each end plate member provided are configured to be caused to extend in use to provide a disk extending laterally from the axis of rotation of the rotor under centrifugal forces generated by rotation of the rotor.

In another aspect the invention provides a method of assembling a Magnus effect rotor apparatus, the method comprising assembling a kit of parts as described herein, said assembling comprising assembling a support structure from a set of support structure parts and assembling a rotor element from a set of rotor element sections.

In another aspect the present invention provides a method of manufacture of a deployable Magus effect rotor apparatus operable to generate a drive force from wind, the method comprising: manufacturing a rotor element which is collapsible in use to allow it to be reconfigured between a first configuration extending in an upright orientation and operable to spin about an axis so as to generate the drive force by the Magnus effect and a second configuration in which the rotor element is collapsed; and manufacturing a support element which comprises hinge means to allow the support element to be pivoted in use between a first configuration in which the support element supports the rotor element so as to have an upright axis of spin and in a second configuration in which the support element is in a non upright position.

In another aspect the present invention provides a method of manufacture of a deployable Magus effect rotor apparatus operable to generate a drive force from wind, the method comprising: manufacturing a rotor element which is inflatable for reconfiguration in use between a first inflated configuration extending in an upright orientation and operable in use to spin about an axis so as to generate the drive force by the Magnus effect and between a second deflated configuration in which the rotor element is collapsed in a deflated state; and manufacturing a telescopic support element to be reconfigurable in use between a first configuration in which the support element is extended and supports the rotor element so as to have an upright axis of spin and a second configuration in which the support element is retracted.

In another aspect the invention comprises a kit of parts for a Magnus effect rotor apparatus, the kit comprising: parts configured for assembly to provide a rotor element; parts configured for assembly to provide a support element configured to support the rotor element; and parts configured to provide a movable mounting for the rotor element and the support element, the mounting configured to allow the rotor element and the support element to be movable.

In another aspect the present invention provides a method of loading or unloading a vessel comprising moving a Magnus effect comprising a movable platform mounting to a position relatively distal from a working area on the vessel.

In another aspect the invention provides a Magnus effect rotor apparatus assembled from a kit of parts described herein.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus is shown with transparent parts to show inner workings; Figure 2 shows a Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention to Figure 2; Figure 3 shows a Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with a further alternative embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 shows a Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with a yet further embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 shows a Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with a yet further embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 shows a Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with another further alternative embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 shows a Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with another further embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 shows a Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with another further embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 shows a Magnus effect rotor apparatus of the same embodiment as Figure 1 with parts expanded to show greater detail of a lower bearing; Figure 10 shows a Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with the same preferred embodiment as Figure 1 with parts expanded to show greater detail of a lateral support bearing; Figure 11 shows a Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with the same preferred embodiment as Figure 1 with parts expanded to show greater detail of an upper bearing; Figure 12 shows a cut-away top view of the lower bearing shown in Figure 9; Figure 13 shows a base for a Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with the same preferred embodiment as Figure 1; Figure 14 depicts a method of assembling a Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention depicted in Figure 1; Figure 15 shows a partially assembled Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with the embodiment of Figure 3; Figure 16 shows a partially assembled Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with the embodiment of Figure 3; Figure 17 shows a partially assembled Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with the embodiment of Figure 3; Figure 18 shows a partially assembled Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with the embodiment of Figure 3; Figure 19 shows a partially assembled Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with the embodiment of Figure 3; Figure 20 shows a partially assembled Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with the embodiment of Figure 3; Figure 21 shows a partially assembled Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with the embodiment of Figure 3; Figure 22 shows an assembled Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with the embodiment of Figure 3 with parts transparent to reveal inner workings; Figure 23 shows an assembled Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with the embodiment of Figure 3; Figure 24 shows a side view of a vessel with a Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with another alternative embodiment of the present invention with parts expanded to show detail of a movable mounting; Figure 25 shows a top view of a vessel with a Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with the same embodiment of the present invention as Figure 24; Figure 26 shows a Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with another further embodiment of the present invention; Figure 27 depicts another further deployable Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with another further embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus being shown in a fully deployed configuration; Figure 28 shows a deployable Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with the embodiment of Figure 27, the apparatus being in a semi-stored configuration, Figure 29 shows a deployable Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention of Figures 28 and 29, the apparatus in a fully stored configuration; Figure 30 shows a deployable Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with another further embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus in a fully deployed configuration; Figure 31 shows a deployable Magnus effect rotor apparatus in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention of Figure 31, the apparatus shown in a non-deployed configuration; Figure 32 shows an air constraining element for a Magnus effect rotor according to a further embodiment of the present invention, the element is shown non-extended; Figure 33 shows the element of Figure 32 shown extended in use; and Figure 34 shows a cylindrical support element section for forming a support element in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

Detailed Description of the Drawings

Figure 1 shows a Magnus effect rotor apparatus, or wind engine, 1 which uses the Magnus effect to provide a drive force to assist in driving a vessel from wind incident on the vessel. As known to the skilled reader, the driving force is at an angle to the direction of incident wind.

The apparatus I has a rotor element 2 in the form of rotor element sections 3a, 3b, 3c and 3d. It can be formed as a lightweight cylinder formed of roto-moulded plastic sections for example. This allows the sections to be formed inexpensively. Alternative embodiments may use other materials such as layers of Mylar®, or similar material, or lightweight metals such as aluminium. The rotor element 2 is shown cut away in figure 1 to enable parts inside the rotor element 2 to be viewed. At either end of the rotor element 2 are a top end plate 4 and a bottom end plate 5. The Magnus effect rotor apparatus 1 has a support element 6 which, in this embodiment, supports the rotor element 2 in an upright orientation. The support element 6 is a framework formed by support element components 7, 8 and 9. These are vertical or upright support components, such as 7, diagonal bracing pieces, such as 8 and bracing plates, such as 9.

Also shown are joints 10 which allow the support element components 7, 8 and 9 to be connected by being bolted together. The support element 6 of this embodiment is a framework and, in this embodiment, the framework has a triangular cross section although square or other cross sections may be used in alternative embodiments.

The support element 6 may also be formed in a modular fashion wherein sections of pre-constructed support element components 7, 8 and 9 form support element sections 6a, 6b, 6c and 6d which can be stacked to form the support element 6. In figure 1 the support element section 6a is connected on top of the support element section 6b, the support element section 6b is connected on top of the support element section 6c, and the support element section 6c is connected on top of the support element section 6d.

Thus the support element 6 can be constructed either from the support element components 7, 8 and 9 individually or by stacking support element section 6a, 6b, 6c and 6d. The support element section 6a, 6b, 6c, and 6d can be stacked by first arranging support element section 6a at a location than jacking up support element section 6a so that support element section 6b can be arranged underneath and connected to support element section 6a. This process can be repeated for the other support element section 6c and 6d to form the support element 6. In this way a vertical support element can be formed in situ without requiring an arrangement to raise a horizontally formed structure to the vertical position.

The Magnus effect rotor apparatus I has a static base 11 which is provided with weld plates 12 to allow it to be welded to a deck of a ship, for example. A turntable 13 is mounted on the static base 11. The bottom rotor element section 3d rests on the turntable 13 and is connected to it also.

An upper bearing 14 is located at the top of the support element 6. The upper bearing connected to the outer bearing 14 is provided with arms or tension elements 15 which are connected to the rotor element section 3a, at an upper part of the rotor element 2, to support at least some of the weight of the rotor element 2. The weight of the rotor element 2 is therefore supported by both the turntable 13 and the upper bearing 14, with a portion of the weight supported by each. A portion of the rotor element 2 will be under tension provided by the arms 15. The turntable 13 and arms 15 provide both vertical and lateral support for the rotor element 2.

The Magnus effect rotor apparatus 1 also has lateral support bearings 16 at positions along the length of the rotor element 2. These provide additional lateral support, at positions along the rotor element 2. In this embodiment, the lateral support bearings 16a to 16d are at positions intermediate of the lower bearing 13 and upper bearing 14.

By means of the bearings 13, 14 and 16, and arms 15, the weight of the rotor element 2 is supported at upper and lower sections or regions. Having a portion of the weight of the rotor element 2 supported by arms 15 under tension acts to resist buckling of the sections 3, particularly of the lower section 3d. The rotor element 2 is also provided with lateral support at the bottom, top and at intermediate points. This provides good strength and allows a lightweight plastic moulded rotor element, light enough to be lifted by a person to be used even with significant load forces, in the scale often tonnes, generated by the Magnus effect rotor apparatus 1. The intermediate upper bearings 16 are located at junctures between sections, such as 3a and 3b where part of the rotor is connected to flanges (not shown) provided at the ends of the rotor elements sections 3.

Figures 2 to 8 show Magnus effect rotor apparatuses 1 with different numbers of rotor element sections. Like parts are given reference numbers corresponding to those of Figure 1 for simplicity.

Figure 9 shows greater detail of the lower bearing 13 of the Magnus effect rotor apparatus 1. The lower bearing 13 has a set of vertical wheels 19 which provide vertical support for an upper bearing or turntable plate 24. The lower bearing 13 also has a set of horizontal wheels 20 to provide horizontal support for the bearing plate 24.

Horizontally aligned axles 21 are provided for the vertical wheels 19. Vertically aligned axles 22 are provided for the horizontal wheels 20.

The lower bearing 13 has a lower static plate 23 which is fixed in relation to the support element 6. The upper bearing plate, or turntable, 24 rotates or rests on the vertical wheels 19, is laterally supported by the horizontal wheels 20, and provides a rotating platform for the rotor element 2 to rotate about its central axis. This platform provides both vertical and lateral support for the rotor element 2.

Figure 10 shows a lateral support bearing 16 in accordance with the same embodiment as Figure 1. A ring 30 is attached to connection flanges 31 provided on the rotor element sections 3. Wheels or rotating bearing elements 32 are mounted on axles 33 which have vertical axes. The wheel 32 bears against a bearing surface 40 which is provided on a plate 41 connected to the support element 6.

Figure 11 shows an upper bearing assembly 50, in which the upper bearing 14 is mounted, according to the same preferred embodiment of the present invention as Figure 1. An upper bearing support 51 connects to the support element 6 and provides a support 52 for an axle 53. The support 52 is formed of two plates, one 52a extending into the page and the other 52b extending in the plane of the page as shown. Horizontal or lateral, support members 54 and vertical support members, or tension members, 15 are connected at pivots 56 between the bearing 14 and the top rotor element section 3a.

The vertical support members 55 are connected using screw-threads, or other suitable, adjustments 57 which allow the length of the support member 15 to be adjusted. This sets the portion of the weight of the rotor element 2 that is supported by the top bearing 14 as the rotor element 2 spins. The adjustment allows the relative proportion of the weight borne by the upper bearing 14 and the lower bearing 13 to be adjusted or set as required.

Figure 12 shows the lower bearing from a plan view, with parts removed to show workings. The lower bearing 13 has a set of vertical wheels 19 with horizontal axles 21. The lower bearing 13 also has horizontal wheels 20 with vertical axles 22. The wheels 19 and 20 are mounted on a static lower plate 23. The wheels 20 bear against a ring 64 provided by the upper rotating support 24, which in Figure 12 is shown as transparent to reveal detail below.

Included with the lower bearing 13 are direct drive units 100 which include drive motors 101 and friction drive rings, or wheels 102 formed from rubber in this particular embodiment. Any material with suitable friction characteristics and suitable resilience characteristics can be used in place of rubber. Adjustment rods 103 are connected by adjustment rod pivots 104 to the drive motor casing 105. The adjustment rod 103 is connected between drive rod pivots 104 for a drive unit 100 on opposite sides of the apparatus so that force supplied by a bias, element, or spring, 106 acts to maintain a constant force for the friction drive wheels 102 against the surface 64. This is assisted by drive rod pivots 104 being located relatively opposite on the drive motor casing 105 from a pivotal connection (not shown). A threaded adjuster 107 allows the compression on the spring 106 to be adjusted by adjusting the distance between limiting elements 108 and 109 which are each connected to parts 110 and 111 of the drive rod 103.

Figure 13 shows a static mount 11 for a Magnus effect rotor apparatus 1 according to the same embodiment of the present invention as Figure 1. A weld plate 70 is provided at the bottom part of the mount 11 to allow it to be welded to the deck of a ship. The weld plate 70 has inner weld slots 71 and outer weld slots 72 to increase the length of welds and therefore increase the strength of the affixing of the weld plate 70 to a deck of a vessel. Feet 74 are provided for legs 75 of the base and also provided for the support elements 7 directly. Bracing elements 76 brace legs 75 against the support elements 7. Connection plates 77 allow the parts to be bolted together. A range of connection plates 77 to be used for the base, and also for the rest of the support elements 6 will be apparent to the skilled reader. Also included in the base, as well as shown in Figure 13 as part of the base, is a bracing plate 78, such as elements 9 used along the support element 6. The bracing plate 78 extends between the vertical support parts 7.

Apertures 80 and 81 accommodate wheels 19 and 20 and axle 21 and 22 of the wheels 19 and 20 when these are being removed for servicing or replacement.

In this embodiment, the apparatus 1 is provided initially in a disassembled state in a kit of parts. In this embodiment specifically, the kit comprises the rotor sections 3 and a pack. The pack contains the remaining parts described herein. The parts can be each light enough to be handled by one or two operators without lifting equipment. The parts are suitable for adding to the assembly individually or as small sub-assemblies of parts so that one or two operators can build up the assembly in situ to assemble the apparatus 1. This avoids the need for specialist lifting equipment for assembling the apparatus 1.

To reduce the construction time and reduce the complexity of construction of the support element 6, support element sections 6a, 6b, 6c, and 6d can be provided in the kit instead of support element components 7, 8, and 9. The trade off is that the parts in the kit are of increased size: each support element section 6a, 6b, 6c, and 6d is reasonably large and may require lifting and positioning equipment.

The operation of the Magnus effect rotor apparatus 1 will now be described with reference to its use on a vessel. When suitable wind conditions are encountered, the apparatus 1 is used to provide drive for the vessel. The drive allows the engines to be throttled down to save fuel. In some cases, the drive may contribute to a higher rate of knots for the vessel for the same level of fuel consumption. Suitable wind conditions will be apparent to the skilled reader, although they may typically be when the wind is in a direction anywhere from outside of 30° from the nose of the vessel. This angle of 300 is an estimated angle which corresponds to how high' the rotor can typically point' and will vary from rotor to rotor or vessel to vessel with various wind conditions, or loading conditions of the vessel.

When the apparatus is to be used, the drive units 100 are powered electrically to spin the rotor element. The rotor element 2 can be spun in either direction, or sense, depending on which side of the ship the wind is bearing. Suitable sense of spin ensures a drive force generally towards the bow of the vessel. In alternative use scenarios the wind direction and sense of spin and speed of spin might be used to brake or steer the vessel.

When the drive units are powered, the friction rings 102 of the drive units 100 actuate the surface 64 of the plate 24, which turns the plate 24 supporting the rotor element.

The rotor element 2 spins with the plate 24. As the rotor element 2 spins it is supported by the plate 24 both vertically and laterally. It is also supported laterally by the upper bearing 14, in bearing assembly 50, and by lateral support bearings 16. The upper bearing supports a portion of the weight of the rotor element 2, depending on how the length of the tension member 15 are adjusted. By supporting a portion of the weight of the rotor element, the upper bearing assembly 50 reduces strain on the lower rotor element sections 3d. Additionally, the rotor element may be placed under some degree of tension to assist in taking some of the strain of the drive force caused by the Magnus Effect. Taking the strain of the lower sections of the rotor element 2, and the lower sections 3d in particular, assists in preventing strain and buckling and/or fatigue. This allows the sections 3 to be formed of a relatively lightweight and/or inexpensively fabricated material such as roto-moulded plastic, or Mylar® added in layers, layered over a drum for example. Support by the lateral support bearings 16 also means the rotor element 2 is supported at points along its length, or intermediate of the upper and lower bearings, against the drive force caused by the Magnus effect. This further reduces strain on the rotor element 2 and further assists in allowing the sections 3 to be formed of lightweight material. The lightweight material of the rotor element 2 allows the other load supporting parts such as the support element 6 and bearings 13, 14, 16 to be relatively lightweight. This allows the drive units to be relatively light duty and further assists in allowing the load supporting parts to be lightweight. In the present embodiment, a 17 metre rotor element 2 bears ten tonnes of force with sections 3 which are light enough for one or two operators to handle and stack while supporting themselves on the framework of the support element 6.

Assembly of the Magnus effect rotor apparatus 1 will now be illustrated with reference to assembly on a vessel. In this embodiment the apparatus 1 is built in situ. In other embodiments the apparatus 1 may be assembled and subsequently installed. It will be apparent to the skilled reader that in other embodiments or the present invention, various alternative methods, in which steps may be replaced or reordered, may be substituted for the method described herein.

Figure 14 depicts a method of assembly. The method begins at SI-i. At Sl-2 the operator welds the weld plate 70 to the deck of the ship, using weld slot 71 and also the periphery of the weld plate 70.

At S 1-3 the static base 1 1 is assembled using bolts and cormectors provided in a flat-pack in which, in this embodiment, all of the modules other than the rotor element sections 3 are contained.

At SI -4 the operator assembles the lower bearing 13 and drive assembly, which includes the drive units 100.

At S1-5 the operator adds the supporting plate, or turntable, 24.

At Si -6, the operator assembles a length of the support structure 7 by adding components and joints 7, 8, 9 and 10 to form a length of a framework which has vertical support elements 7b and has bracing elements 8 and 9. As in this embodiment the apparatus is built in situ, the length of the support element 6 is built or erected on the base 12. As apparent to the skilled reader, the description of assembly, the framework provides a lightweight yet rigid support element 6 which can be shipped in a flat-pack.

All of the components and joints 7, 8, 9 and 10, plus various fixtures, can be formed from folded and pressed metal, or other ductile material, for shipping in a flat-pack in disassembled form. Folded steel for example provides cost effective parts. In an alternative to providing the components and joints 7, 8, 9 and 10 and requiring the construction of sections of the support element 6, the sections can be provided in the fit ready assembled. This increases the size of the kit parts but reduced construction time and complexity.

At S 1-7, the operator adds a rotor element section 3d to the supporting and turning plate 24. The plate 24 will spin the rotor element section 3d. The operator will also connect the rotor element section 3d to the plate 24 using a flange (not shown) at the bottom of the rotor element section 3d.

At S 1-8, the operator builds another length of support 6. In this embodiment the framework is built with parts 7 to 10 added individually to progressively build the support element as a framework in an already upright state. This may involve climbing on the support 6 and using bracing elements 8 or 9 to support themselves.

At S 1-9, the operator stacks another rotor element section 3c on the rotor element section 3d and connects the two sections 3 together using connection flanges.

At Sl-10, the operator assembles the lateral support bearings 16 at the juncture of the two sections.

Step Si-li represents the operator deciding whether the full support 6 has been built. If not, the operator builds another section by adding connecting modules 7 to 10, by returning to step S 1-8.

At S 1-12, if the support element 6 has been built, the operator assembles the upper bearing assembly 50.

At S 1-13, the operator adjusts the length of the member 15 to adjust the portion of the weight of the rotor element 2 which is supported by the bearing assembly 50 and bearing 14. This also adjusts the portion which is supported by the lower bearing assembly 18.

At S 1-14, the operator adjusts the frictional contact between the friction wheel 102 and surface 64 of the plate 24 by adjusting the limiter 108 provided on the arm 103 to adjust the compress ion on the spring 106.

The method ends at Sl-15.

The assembly of a Magnus effect rotor apparatus 1 as shown in Figure 3 will now be further illustrated with reference to Figures 15 to 24 in which Figures 15 to 24 show the apparatus in various states of assembly with the rotor element 2 shown as transparent to reveal the parts behind.

Figure 15 shows the base 12 and a bottom section of the support element 6 built in situ, or erected, by adding, or connecting, base parts 74, 75, 76, 77 and 78 and support element parts 7, 8, 9 and 10. Also added is a mount 80 for the drive unit 100. Also added is a lower rotor element section 3h.

Figure 16 shows the base 12 and a longer section of the support element 6 built and two rotor element sections 3f and 3g added. The section 3f is shown stacked coaxially on the section 3g. The sections are each connected to another at an end.

Figures 17 to 21 show the base 12 and yet further sections of the support 6 built and additional rotor element sections stacked and connected at an end.

Figure 22 shows the upper bearing assembly 50 assembled on top of the support element 6. The apparatus 1 is now assembled. Figures 23 shows the assembled apparatus 1 with the rotor element 2 not transparent.

Figure 24 shows a vessel 200 which has a deployable Magnus effect rotor apparatus 201 according to an embodiment of the present invention to Figure 1. The Magnus effect apparatus 201 is shown in two positions. Position 202 is a deployed position where the apparatus 1 is in a suitable position for producing drive for the vessel 200. Position 203 corresponds to a stowed, or un-deployed, position where the apparatus is stowed in a position better suited for unloading the vessel 200, with cranes (not shown) for example.

In the stowed position the apparatus is relatively away, or distal, from a working area such as a loading area or hold 208. The base 212, shown duplicated and expanded to reveal detail, of the rotor apparatus 201 is mounted on a track 204 to form a movable platform. Over wheels 205 and under wheels 206 hold the base 212 on this track.

Figure 25 shows the same vessel 200 in a plan view in which the positions 202 and 203 of the Magnus effect rotor apparatus 201 are shown in relation to a hold 208 of the vessel. Position 202 obscures or impedes the hold 202 from the side of the vessel and the position 203 allows relatively unimpeded access to the hold 208.

Figure 26 shows a Magnus effect rotor apparatus 301 in accordance with a further alternative embodiment of the present invention. The apparatus has a rotor element 302 and a lower plate 305 to constrain pressure in the working region 309 of the rotor element 302. As known to the skilled reader, the working region 309 is adjacent the rotor element 302 and extends along its length. At the top of the working region 309, in place of the upper plate, of other embodiments described herein, the apparatus 302 has a fan 304 with blades 307 angled to force air towards the rotor element 302 or downwards. The blades are spinnable about the axis 307 of the rotor element 302. In this embodiment the blades spin with the rotor element 302. In this embodiment the blades are fixed to the rotor element 302 to spin with it. The blades have reversible pitch by movement in the direction shown by the arrow 308. This allows the action of the fan blades 306 to be applied to increase pressure in the working region 309 irrespective of which the sense spin of the rotor element 302.

Figure 27 shows a deployable Magnus effect rotor apparatus 401 according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention. The apparatus 401 has a collapsible rotor element 402 formed from fabric with circular strengtheners 403 to assist in holding and maintaining the rotor element 402 in a cylindrical shape. In this embodiment the rotor element 402 is inflatable. In one embodiment an inner wall 408 which runs parallel to an outer wall 409 allows for inflation of a cylinder formed by walls 408 and 409. The apparatus 401 has a bottom plate 404 and a top plate 405 to contain pressure of air flowing around the rotor element 402 in the region of the rotor element 402. The rotor element 402 is mounted on a central telescopic rotor support 406 which has sections 407a to 407d. Figure 27 shows the apparatus 401 in a fully deployed configuration where the support element 406 is fully extended and stretches the rotor element 402 to its full length. Figure 28 shows the apparatus 401 in a semi-.

deployed state in which the telescopic support element 406 is moving towards a collapsed state. Figure 29 shows the apparatus 401 in a fully collapsed configuration in which the support element is in a retracted state. The inner wall 407 is not shown in Figure 29.

Figure 30 shows a deployable Magnus effect rotor apparatus 501 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Shown is a collapsible rotor element 502 with circular strengtheners 503, similar to the embodiment of Figures 27 to 29. In this embodiment also, the rotor element 502 is inflatable, having an inner wall 510 and an outer wall 511. The rotor support element 506 has two sections 507 and 508 separated by a hinge 509 which allows the support element 506 to be raised to support the rotor element 502 in an upright orientation as it spins. As shown in Figure 32, the support 506 can also be lowered to lie against the deck of a vessel out or the path of equipment which might move overhead. This allows the apparatus 501 to be stowed, in effect, when it is not required to be deployed. When the rotor element 502 is collapsed it sits below the hinge 509. Figure 30 shows the apparatus 501 in a fully deployed state in which the section 507 is parallel with the section 508 and the rotor element 502 is stretched to its full length. Figure 31 shows the apparatus 501 in a stowed, or un-deployed, state in contrast to the apparatus as shown in Figure 30.

Figure 32 shows a Magnus effect rotor apparatus 601 according to a further embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment a top element 604 is formed from a flexible material. As shown in Figure 33 the flexible element is forced outwards under centrifugal forces when the rotor element 602 spins. The element 604 then constrains air in the working region 610 of the rotor element 602.

Other and further embodiments of the invention will now be described.

Although the support element 6 in the previous embodiments is described as being formed of a framework of components and joints 7, 8, 9 and 10, in an alternative embodiment the support element can be formed of cylindrical support element sections 620 as illustrated in figure 34 which can be stacked. Each support element section 620 has a flange 621 at either end with bolt holes 622 to enable each section 620 to be connected together. The support element can be formed in situ by jacking up a section 620, positioning another section 620 below and bolting them together at their flanges 621. The pair of sections can then be jacked up so that the next section can be arranged below and bolted to the lower section of the formed stack. This process can be repeated for all of the sections to form the support element. The first section will be the top section and will carry the top plat and the top bearing. The last section will carry the bottom plate and bearing and mat also comprise the static base for attachment to the ship.

One embodiment provides kit of parts for a Magnus effect apparatus operable to generate a drive force from wind, the apparatus having a rotor element configured to spin about an axis to generate the drive force using the Magnus effect and a support element configured to support the rotor element so that the axis has an upright orientation, the kit of parts comprising: a set of support parts configured for assembly to provide the support element, a set of rotor element sections configured for assembly to provide the rotor element.

This aspect provides an apparatus which may facilitate shipping as a kit of disassembled parts. The support parts can be configured to allow the support element to be formed as a framework either from individual components or from sections formed from components that can be connected end to end. A framework may allow the structure to be relatively lightweight. The framework structure may be suitable for being assembled by adding parts individually or in small subassemblies. This allows the support structure to be assembled in situ. A support structure as a framework may allow the support structure to be assembled by one or two operators who need only handle individual parts or relatively small subassemblies and may avoid the need for lifting equipment or specialised heavy equipment. The framework can be formed of any parts that fit together and are connected together e.g. by bolting, welding, snap-fit' or any other form of interconnection.

The support element can also be formed from any form of sections eg cylindrical, framework, box section, etc that can be connected end to end to form the support element. This enables simple modular construction.

The rotor element may have a weight and wherein the rotor element sections are each configured for connection such that the rotor element sections form a rotor element which is substantially rigid lengthwise to allow the weight of the rotor element to be supported at two or more rotor element sections.

Another embodiment provides a kit of parts for a Magnus effect apparatus operable to generate a drive force from wind, the apparatus having a rotor element configured to spin about an axis to generate the drive force using the Magnus effect and a support element configured to support the rotor element so that the axis has an upright orientation, the kit of parts comprising: a set of support parts configured for assembly to provide the support element; and a set of rotor element sections configured for assembly to provide the rotor element, wherein the rotor element sections are configured for connection such that the rotor element sections form a rotor element which is substantially rigid lengthwise to allow the weight of the rotor element to be supported at two or more rotor element sections.

The set of support parts may be configured for connecting into a framework to provide the support element.

The kit of parts may further comprise modules for assembly to form a lower weight supporting bearing, configured to support weight for at least a portion of the rotor element and allow the rotor element to rotate about an axis.

The kit of parts may comprise an upper weight supporting bearing configured to provide weight bearing support for the rotor element section, wherein one or other of the upper and lower bearings are configurable to adjust a portion weight of the rotor element supported by that bearing.

Another embodiment may provide kit of parts for a Magnus effect apparatus operable to generate a drive force from wind, the apparatus having a rotor element configured to spin about an axis to generate the drive force using the Magnus effect and a support element configured to support the rotor element so that the axis has an upright orientation, the kit of parts comprising: a set of support parts configured for assembly to provide the support structure, a set of rotor element sections configured for assembly to provide the rotor element, wherein the rotor element sections are each configured for connection such that the rotor element sections form a rotor element which is substantially rigid lengthwise, and a set of first bearing parts configured for assembly to provide a first weight supporting bearing configured to provide weight bearing support for the rotor element at a first rotor element section; and a set of second bearing parts configured for assembly to provide a second weight supporting bearing configured to provide weight bearing support for the rotor element at a second rotor element section, wherein the first rotor element section is relatively below the second rotor element section, and wherein at least one of the first and second bearings are configurable so as to set a portion of the weight of the rotor element supported by said at least one of the first and second bearings.

This allows the weight of the rotor element to be distributed between upper and lower sections of the rotor element. This allows the rotor element to be made of lightweight material because compression of the lower sections of the rotor element is reduced. A relatively lightweight rotor element allows the support element to be relatively lightweight. This facilitates shipping, handling and assembly of the apparatus. A relatively lightweight rotor element also allows relatively light duty drive motors to be used. This aspect may allow a section of the rotor element to be placed under tension.

This may assist in it resisting buckling forces generated by wind power.

This provides a Magus effect apparatus in which lightweight and/or inexpensive rotor elements, and rotor sections, can be used. This is due to the spreading of the weight or the rotor element between an upper portion and a lower portion. This reduces the tendency for sections to buckle under load. In some embodiments, the second weight bearing may place a portion of the rotor element under tension, to further resist strain under Magnus effect loading forces. In an alternative embodiment, the first bearing may not be weight supporting, but may be a tensioning bearing, providing a downwards tension.

The support parts may be configured for assembly to form a framework.

The second weight supporting bearing may be configured to support a portion of weight of the apparatus in suspension wherein a portion of the rotor element is under tension.

The second weight supporting bearing may comprise adjustable members, adjustable in length to allow said portion of weight supported to be set.

The first weight supporting bearing may comprise a first set of rotating bearing elements having a horizontal axis of rotation and a second set of rotating bearing elements having a vertical axis of rotation, the first and second sets of bearing elements arranged such that the bearing provides axial and lateral support with respect to the rotor element.

The first weight supporting bearing may comprise a plate to support the portion of the weight of the rotor element supported by the first bearing.

The rotor element sections may be configured for connection to other sections at flanges provided substantially at ends of the sections.

The kit of parts may further comprise parts configured for assembly to provide one or more drive motor assemblies comprising a motor and a friction surface, the friction surface configured to engage a surface fixed with respect to the rotor element to allow the motor to drive the rotor element to spin under power of the motor.

The rotor element sections may be provided with co-operating surfaces configured to allow a section to be stacked on another section, wherein the sections are coaxially aligned.

The kit of parts may further comprise parts configured for assembly to provide one or more lateral support bearings located at one or more points along the rotor element and may be configured to provide lateral support for the rotor element in use.

The one or more lateral support bearings may each comprise a bearing support surface substantially parallel with the rotor element and a set of bearing elements configured to bear against the bearing support surface, wherein one or more of the bearing support surface or set of bearing elements are fixed with respect to the support element.

The kit of parts may further comprising parts configured for assembly to provide a movable platform for the assembled Magnus effect rotor apparatus.

Another embodiment provides a method of assembling a Magnus effect rotor apparatus comprising assembling a kit of parts as described herein said assembling comprising: assembling a support structure from a set of support structure parts; and assembling a rotor element from a set of rotor element sections.

The support structure may further comprise connecting support element parts progressively to build an upright support element progressively in the form of a framework.

The method may comprise connecting some of the support element parts to build a section support element in an upright orientation, adding a rotor element section; and repeating said connecting and adding to build a support element and a rotor element.

This may allow the apparatus to be built in situ with small or easily manageable individual parts or subassemblies, thus avoiding the need for lifting or specialised equipment.

An operator may support themselves on the support element during assembly of the parts.

The method may comprise mounting the Magnus effect rotor apparatus on a movable platform, the platform movable on the deck of a vessel to move the apparatus between a deployed position and a non-deployed position, the non-deployed position being relatively distal from a working area on the vessel.

Another embodiment provides a kit of parts for a Magnus effect rotor apparatus, comprising rotor element parts configured for assembly to provide a rotor element configured to generate a driving force using the Magnus effect by causing a pressure differential in a working region located adjacent to the rotor; and a set of air directing blades located proximate an end of the rotor element, the set of blades configured to spin about an axis so as to force air towards the working region to increase the pressure differential therein.

The rotor may have a sense of spin and the blades may be configured to spin with the same sense of spin as the rotor element, and wherein the blades may have a pitch which is reversible with the sense of spin of the rotor element so that air is forced toward the working region irrespective of the sense of spin of the rotor.

The kit may comprise rotor element parts configured for assembly to provide a rotor element configured to spin about an axis to generate a drive force by generating a pressure differential in a working region located adjacent to the rotor; and plate number parts configured for assembly to provide one or more end plate members configured to act in use to constrain pressure in the working region, the parts formed from flexible material such that the members provided are configured to be caused to extend in use to provide a disk extending laterally from the axis of rotation of the rotor under centrifugal forces generated by rotation of the rotor.

Another embodiment provides a method of manufacture of a deployable Magus effect rotor apparatus operable to generate a drive force from wind, the method comprising: manufacturing a rotor element which is collapsible in use to allow it to be reconfigured between a first configuration in which it extends in an upright orientation and is operable to spin about an axis so as to generate the drive force by the Magnus effect and between a second configuration in which the rotor element is collapsed; and manufacturing a support element which comprises a hinge to allow the support element to be reconfigured in use between a first configuration in which the support element supports the rotor element so as to have an upright axis of spin and in a second configuration in which the support element is in a lowered position.

The rotor element manufactured may be reconfigurable in use by inflation or deflation of a region formed by a double wall.

Another embodiment is a Magnus effect rotor apparatus manufactured according to the method described herein.

Another embodiment provides a method of manufacture of a deployable Magus effect rotor apparatus operable to generate a drive force from wind, the method comprising: manufacturing a rotor element which is collapsible to allow it to be reconfigured in use between a first configuration in which it is inflated to extend in an upright orientation and is operable in use to spin about an axis so as to generate the drive force by the Magnus effect and between a second configuration in which the rotor element is collapsed in a deflated state; and manufacturing a support element which is telescopic to allow it to be reconfigured in use between a first configuration in which the support element is extended and supports the rotor element so as to have an upright axis of spin and in a second configuration in which the support element is retracted.

Another embodiment provides a method of loading or unloading a vessel comprising moving a Magnus effect comprising a movable platform mounting to a position relatively distal from a working area on the vessel.

Another embodiment provides a method of loading or unloading a vessel comprising reconfiguring a support element of a deployable Magnus effect rotor apparatus by lowering it at a hinge and reconfiguring a rotor element of the apparatus by collapsing it.

Another embodiment provides a Magnus effect rotor apparatus assembled from the kit of parts as described herein.

In some embodiments, the rotor element sections may be formed from any known suitable lightweight or self supporting material, including, plastics, fibres such as carbon or Keviar® embedded in resins or metals, to name some examples.

In some embodiments, the support element and bearing assemblies may be formed from any known suitable materials, such as steel, other metals, plastics or fibres embedded in resins.

It will be understood that other embodiments may comprise combinations of the features or the embodiments described herein or may comprise parts, features or components substituted with equivalents known to the skilled reader, and that the invention is limited only by the claims.

Claims

Claims 1. A kit of parts for a Magnus effect apparatus operable to generate a drive force from wind, the apparatus having a rotor element configured to spin about an axis to generate the drive force using the Magnus effect and a support element configured to support the rotor element so that the axis has an upright orientation, the kit of parts comprising: a set of support parts configured for assembly into the support element, and a set of rotor parts comprising rotor element sections configured for assembly to provide the rotor element.
2. The kit of parts of claim 1, wherein said set of support parts comprise support sections adapted for connection end to end to form the support element.
3. The kit of parts of claim 1, wherein said support parts comprise support components for connection into a framework to form the support element.
4. The kit of parts of any preceding claim, wherein the rotor element has a weight and wherein the rotor element sections are each configured for connection such that the rotor element sections form a rotor element which is substantially rigid lengthwise to allow the weight of the rotor element to be supported at two or more rotor element sections.
5. A kit of parts for a Magnus effect apparatus operable to generate a drive force from wind, the apparatus having a rotor element configured to spin about an axis to generate the drive force using the Magnus effect and a support element configured to support the rotor element so that the axis has an upright orientation, the kit of parts comprising: a set of support parts configured for assembly to provide the support element; and a set of rotor parts comprising rotor element sections configured for assembly to provide the rotor element, wherein the rotor element sections are configured for connection such that the rotor element sections form a rotor element which is substantially rigid lengthwise to allow the weight of the rotor element to be supported at two or more rotor element sections.
6. The kit of parts of claim 5, wherein the set of support parts are configured for assembly into a framework to provide the support element.
7. The kit of parts of claim 5, wherein said set of support parts comprise support sections adapted for connection end to end to form the support element.
8. The kit of parts of any preceding claim, further comprising parts configured for assembly to form a first weight supporting bearing configured to support the weight of at least a portion of the rotor element and allow the rotor element to rotate about an axis.
9. The kit of parts of claim 8, further comprising parts configured for assembly to form a second weight supporting bearing configured to provide weight bearing support for the weight of at least another portion of the rotor element section, wherein at least one of the first and second supporting bearings are configurable so as to adjust the portion the weight of the rotor element supported by that bearing.
10. A kit of parts for a Magnus effect apparatus operable to generate a drive force from wind, the apparatus having a rotor element configured to spin about an axis to generate the drive force using the Magnus effect and a support element configured to support the rotor element so that the axis has an upright orientation, the kit of parts comprising: a set of support parts configured for assembly to provide the support structure; a set of rotor parts comprising rotor element sections configured for assembly to provide the rotor element, wherein the rotor element sections are each configured for connection such that the rotor element sections form a rotor element which is substantially rigid lengthwise; a set of first bearing parts configured for assembly to provide a first weight supporting bearing configured to provide weight bearing support for the rotor element at a first rotor element section; and a set of second bearing parts configured for assembly to provide a second weight supporting bearing configured to provide weight bearing support for the rotor element at a second rotor element section, wherein the first rotor element section is relatively below the second rotor element section, and wherein at least one of the first and second bearings are configurable so as to set a portion of the weight of the rotor element supported by said at least one of the first and second bearings.
11. The kit of parts of claim 10, wherein the support parts are configured for assembly to form a framework.
12. The kit of parts of claim 10, wherein said set of support parts comprise support sections adapted for connection end to end to form the support element.
13. The kit of parts of any of claims 10 to 12, wherein the second weight supporting bearing is configured to support a portion of weight of the apparatus in suspension wherein a portion of the rotor element is under tension.
14. The kit of parts of claim 13, wherein the second weight supporting bearing comprises adjustable members which are adjustable in length to allow said portion of weight to be set.
15. The kit of parts of any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the first weight supporting bearing comprises a first set of rotating bearing elements having a horizontal axis of rotation and a second set of rotating bearing elements having a vertical axis of rotation, the first and second sets of bearing elements arranged such that the bearing provides axial and lateral support with respect to the rotor element.
16. The kit of parts of any one of claims 10 to 15, wherein the first weight supporting bearing comprises a plate to support the portion of the weight of the rotor element supported by the first bearing.
17. The kit of parts of any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein the rotor element sections are configured for connection to other sections at flanges provided substantially at ends of the sections.
18. The kit of parts of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising drive motor parts configured for assembly to provide one or more drive assemblies comprising a motor and a friction surface, the friction surface configured to engage a surface fixed with respect to the rotor element to allow the motor to drive the rotor element so as to spin under power of the motor.
19. The kit of parts of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the rotor element sections are provided with co-operating surfaces configured to allow a section to be stacked on another section wherein the sections are coaxially aligned.
20. The kit of parts of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising lateral support parts configured for assembly to provide one or more lateral support bearings located at one or more points along the rotor element and configured to provide lateral support for the rotor element in use.
21. The kit of parts of claim 20, wherein the one or more lateral support bearings each comprise a bearing support surface arranged substantially parallel with the rotor element and a set of bearing elements configured to bear against the bearing support surface, wherein one or other of the bearing support surface or set of bearing elements are fixed with respect to the support element.
22. A kit of parts of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising platform parts configured for assembly to provide a movable platform for the assembled Magnus effect rotor apparatus.
23. A method of assembling a Magnus effect rotor apparatus, the method comprising assembling a kit of parts of any preceding claim, said assembling comprising: assembling a support structure from the set of support structure parts; and assembling a rotor element from the set of rotor parts.
24. The method of assembling a Magnus effect rotor apparatus of claim 23, wherein assembling the support structure further comprises connecting support element parts successively to build an upright support element.
25. The method assembling a Magnus effect rotor apparatus of claim 24, further comprising: connecting some of the support element parts to build a section support element in an upright orientation; adding a rotor element section; and repeating said connecting and adding to build a support element and a rotor element.
26. The method of assembling a Magnus effect rotor apparatus of claim 25, further comprising an operator supporting themselves on the support element during assembly of the parts.
27. The method of any one of claims 24 to 26, further comprising mounting the Magnus effect rotor apparatus on a movable platform provided on the deck of a vessel, the platform movable on the deck of a vessel to move the apparatus between a deployed position and a non-deployed position, the non-deployed position being relatively distal from a working area on the vessel.
28. A kit of parts for a Magnus effect rotor apparatus, comprising: parts configured for assembly to provide a rotor element configured to generate a driving force using the Magnus effect by causing a pressure differential in a working region located adjacent to the rotor; and parts configured for assembly to provide a set of air directing blades located proximate an end of the rotor element, the set of blades configured to spin about an axis so as to force air towards the working region to increase the pressure differential therein.
29. The kit of parts of claim 28, wherein the rotor has a sense of spin and the blades are configured to spin with the same sense of spin as the rotor element, and wherein the blades have a pitch which is reversible with the sense of spin of the rotor element so that air is forced toward the working region irrespective of the sense of spin of the rotor.
30. A kit of parts for a Magnus effect rotor apparatus, the kit comprising: parts configured for assembly to provide a rotor element configured to spin about an axis to generate a drive force by generating a pressure differential in a working region located adjacent to the rotor element; and plate parts configured for assembly to provide one or more end plate members for the rotor element, the end plate members configured to act in use to constrain pressure in the working region, the plate parts formed from flexible material such that the or each end plate member provided are configured to extend in use to provide a disk extending laterally from the axis of rotation of the rotor under centrifugal forces generated by rotation of the rotor.
31. A method of manufacture of a deployable Magnus effect rotor apparatus operable to generate a drive force from wind, the method comprising: manufacturing a rotor element which is collapsible in use to allow it to be reconfigured between a first configuration extending in an upright orientation and operable to spin about an axis so as to generate the drive force by the Magnus effect and a second configuration in which the rotor element is collapsed; and manufacturing a support element which comprises hinge means to allow the support element to be pivoted in use between a first configuration in which the support element supports the rotor element so as to have an upright axis of spin and in a second configuration in which the support element is in a non upright position.
32. The method of manufacture of claim 31, wherein the rotor element manufactured to include an inflatable or deflatable region formed by a double wall to enable the rotor element to be reconfigurable in use by inflation and deflation of the region.
33. A method of manufacture of a deployable Magnus effect rotor apparatus operable to generate a drive force from wind, the method comprising: manufacturing a rotor element which is inflatable for reconfiguration in use between a first inflated configuration extending in an upright orientation and operable in use to spin about an axis so as to generate the drive force by the Magnus effect and between a second deflated configuration in which the rotor element is collapsed in a deflated state; and manufacturing a telescopic support element to be reconfigurable in use between a first configuration in which the support element is extended and supports the rotor element so as to have an upright axis of spin and a second configuration in which the support element is retracted.
34. A Magnus effect apparatus manufactured according to the method of any one of claims 31 to 33 comprising a rotor element and a support element.
35. A method of loading or unloading a vessel comprising moving a Magnus effect rotor apparatus mounted on a movable platform, to a position relatively distal from a
36. A method of loading or unloading a vessel comprising collapsing a rotor element of a deployable Magnus effect rotor and pivoting a support element of the deployable Magnus effect rotor apparatus at a hinge between a deployed position and a loading or unloading position and loading or unloading the vessel.
37. A method of loading or unloading a vessel comprising retracting a telescopic support element of a deployable Magnus effect rotor apparatus, and loading or unloading the vessel.
38. A Magnus effect rotor apparatus assembled from the kit of parts of any one of claims I to 22.