NL2007729C2 - A vessel with a rigid wingsail installation. - Google Patents

Description

P30962NL00 -1-

A VESSEL WITH A RIGID WINGSAIL INSTALLATION

The present invention relates to a vessel provided with at least one rigid wingsail installation.

In a prior art vessel disclosed in FR 2 609 271 a mast supports a rigid wingsail. The mast has a foot that is secured to the vessel and a mast top. The mast is rotatable about a vertical 5 wingsail rotation axis relative to the vessel to adjust the angle of incidence of the wind.

At its mast top the mast is provided with a tilting assembly having a horizontal tilt axis.

The rigid wingsail main panel is an airfoil and has a lower end, an upper end, a leading edge, and a trailing edge. The main panel is connected at a position between its lower and upper ends to the mast via the tilting assembly, the tilting assembly allowing for tilting of the main 10 panel relative to the mast top about the tilt axis.

The present invention aims to propose measures to provide improvements over, or at least alternatives for, existing rigid wingsail installations.

15 The present invention also aims to propose measures that allow for a very large sized wingsail installation, e.g. having a wingsail with a total height of 30 meters or more, e.g. between 75 and 120 meters. Such very large sized wingsails are envisaged for main or auxiliary propulsion of ocean-going commercial vessels, e.g. liquefied gas tankers, product tankers, bulk carriers, car carriers, reefers, cruise liners, ferries, ocean-going yachts, but also 20 for high speed sailing vessels.

The present invention also aims to propose measures that allow for multiple very large sized wingsail installations on a single vessel.

25 The present invention also aims to propose measures that allow for convenient handling of wingsail installations, in particular large sized wingsail installations.

The present invention also aims to propose measures that allow for a vessel that has both one or more wingsail installations and a liquefied gas fueled propulsion system or at least 30 tanks for holding liquid or gaseous chemical products.

According to a first aspect thereof the invention proposes a vessel provided with at least one rigid wingsail installation, said installation comprising: -2- - a mast structure and a rigid wingsail supported by the mast structure, wherein the mast structure comprises a foot that is secured to the vessel and a mast top, 5 wherein the mast top is rotatable about a substantially vertical wingsail rotation axis relative to the vessel to adjust the angle of incidence of the wind, and wherein the mast top is provided with a primary tilting assembly, 10 wherein the rigid wingsail comprises: - a rigid wingsail main panel having a lower end, an upper end, a leading edge, and a trailing edge, which rigid wingsail main panel is connected at a position intermediate its lower and 15 upper ends to the mast structure via the primary tilting assembly, the primary tilting assembly allowing for tilting of the rigid wingsail main panel relative to the mast top about a primary tilt axis that is non-parallel, preferably substantially perpendicular, to the vertical wingsail rotation axis, 20 - a rigid wingsail top panel having a lower end, an upper end, a leading edge, and a trailing edge, which rigid wingsail top panel is connected at its lower end to the upper end of the rigid wingsail main panel via a secondary tilting assembly, the secondary tilting assembly allowing for tilting of the rigid wingsail top panel relative to the rigid wingsail main panel about a secondary tilt axis that is non-parallel, preferably substantially perpendicular, to the vertical 25 wingsail rotation axis, more preferably parallel to the primary tilt axis.

The first aspect of the invention is based on the insight that - in particular for a very large sized wingsail installation - it is in many situations advantageous that the installation allows both for tilting of the main panel via the primary tilting assembly on the mast top and for tilting 30 of the top panel with respect to the main panel.

For sailing with the installation it is envisaged that the wingsail is maintained in a substantially vertically erected sailing position with respect to the mast structure, with the top panel and main panel aligned and generally forming a contiguous rigid airfoil body.

35

In a preferred embodiment the mast structure and the rigid wingsail are unstayed, so without stays to keep the mast structure and the wingsail in vertically erect position. The absence of -3- stays facilitates tilting of the wingsail and wingsail panels as will be discussed below in more detail.

It is preferred for the main panel to be provided with an elongated mast structure receiving recess wherein the mast structure is received when the main panel is in its vertically erected 5 sailing position. The recess may be left open at the entrance side during sailing, but if desired a movable cover could be provided to close the entrance side and to enhance the streamline of the airfoil body of the main panel.

In a preferred embodiment the mast top is able to rotate a full 360°, e.g. to allow for 10 weathervaning in excessive wind conditions. Different exemplary embodiments of rotatable mast tops, possibly as part of a fully rotatable mast structure, are discussed below.

As is preferred the wingsail main and top panels are embodied as rigid, preferably symmetrical, airfoil section panels, e.g. having a box structure with frame members, e.g. with 15 horizontal airfoil frame members at various heights and vertical frame members, said frame members supporting a hard outer skin.

The wingsail main panel and/or top panel may include rigid, non-mobile flap portions at their trailing end, e.g. to be extended rearwards further by one or more pivotable trailing flaps.

20

In an embodiment one or more wingsail locking devices are provided to lock the wingsail in its vertically erected sailing position with respect to the mast structure. This may e.g. include one or more hydraulic actuated latch devices, e.g. near the lower end of the mast and/or of the main panel, and/or near or integrated in the primary tilting assembly.

25

For example the wingsail installation may be adapted to bring the wingsail in a docking position, wherein the main panel is substantially horizontal and the top panel is oriented downwards, preferably substantially vertical.

Bringing the wingsail in such a docking position may e.g. be done when entering a port, 30 during mooring, or e.g. when inspection or maintenance is to be performed on the wingsail installation. For example one can envisage that equipment is arranged at the top of the top panel of the wingsail, e.g. communications equipment, radar, signaling lights, etc. The ability to bring the wingsail in this docking position allows for easier access to said equipment by maintenance crew members.

35 -4-

One can also envisage that the top panel is temporarily tilted - with the main panel remaining in sailing position - to temporarily reduce the height of the wingsail, e.g. when passing under a bridge, e.g. to meet Panamax height.

5 In an embodiment the vessel comprises a docking position securing assembly that is adapted to engage on the top panel in its downward oriented docking position, with the main panel substantially horizontal, and to secure said top panel relative to the vessel. The securing of the top panel avoids any risk of undesirable wingsail motion, e.g. sea-state induced or wind force induced, e.g. allowing for safe working conditions for maintenance 10 crewmembers.

A securing assembly may for example include a stationary framework, e.g. with one or more fenders, against which a portion of the top panel can be brought to bear, or mobile or flexible securing devices, e.g. with (hydraulically) actuated securing arms, cables, straps, etc.

15

In an embodiment the docking position securing assembly comprises one or more work platforms accessible by crew members, e.g. to perform maintenance on equipment arranged on the top panel, e.g. on the upper end of the top panel.

20 In a practical embodiment the first tilt axis is located in a region halfway the height of the main panel, e.g. between 40 and 60% of the height of the main panel.

In a practical embodiment the first tilt axis is arranged at approximately 1/3 of the total height of the wingsail and the second tilt axis at about 2/3 of the total height of the wingsail.

25

In a practical embodiment the total height of the wingsail above the corresponding deck portion is at least 30 meters, possibly between 75 and 120 meters.

In a practical embodiment the height of the mast structure above the corresponding deck 30 portion is at least 10 meters, possibly between 25 and 40 meters.

In a practical embodiment the mast is a tubular mast which may have a diameter between 2 and 4 meters.

35 A tubular mast may be but need not be circular in cross-section, e.g. the mast can be octagonal, square, rectangular, etc.

-5-

It is envisaged that in a practical embodiment the wingsail may have a weight of 30 tonnes or more, e.g. between 300 and 600 tonnes.

It is envisaged that the main panel may have a greatest thickness - at right angles to the 5 main surface of the main panel - of more than 1 meter, e.g. between 2 and 5 meters.

It is preferred for the wingsail rotation axis to be arranged in a non-variable vertical orientation on the vessel. However, for example, a slightly inclined wingsail rotation axis is also well possible, e.g. within a range of 15° from vertical.

10

To allow for controlled tilting of the wingsail about the first tilt axis it is preferred that the primary tilting assembly is associated with one or more power drive motors arranged between the mast top and the main panel, e.g. one or more hydraulic jacks, to provide tilting force for performing the tilting of the wingsail about the primary tilt axis.

15

To allow for controlled tilting of the top panel about the second tilt axis it is preferred that the secondary tilting assembly is associated with one or more power drive motors arranged between the main panel and the top panel, e.g. one or more hydraulic jacks, to provide tilting force for performing the tilting of the top panel about the secondary tilt axis.

20

In a practical embodiment a hydraulic group is provided including a motor driven hydraulic pump, a reservoir for hydraulic fluid, and a hydraulic circuit, said hydraulic group being connected to one or more hydraulic jacks arranged between the mast top and the main panel, and/or between the main panel and the top panel. The hydraulic group may be 25 arranged at the top end of the mast, within the mast, e.g. within the foot (for example when the foot is rotatable as part of a rotatable mast structure), or - as is also possible - near the foot of the mast in an associated room of the vessel.

In a practical embodiment each tilting assembly is associated with a row of multiple hydraulic 30 jacks arranged at a distance from the respective tilt axis, e.g. hydraulic jacks engaging on a balance arm of the main panel.

In a practical embodiment each tilting assembly comprises a tilting shaft, e.g. secured to the mast top or to the main panel at its upper end. The tiltable main panel or top panel can e.g. 35 be connected to said shaft via one or more eye members through which said shaft extends.

-6-

In a practical embodiment the first and/or second tilting shaft is arranged parallel to and horizontally offset from a vertical midplane of the wingsail, allowing for the positioning of one or more power drive motors, e.g. hydraulic jacks, within the contour of the wingsail next to the offset arranged tilting shaft.

5 In a practical embodiment the first and/or second tilting shaft is offset horizontally such that a portion of the shaft extends outside the contour of the main panel or top panel, preferably a bulbous, e.g. streamlined, cover being provided on said panel to cover the extending portion of the tilting shaft.

10 In a practical embodiment the tilt angle of the main panel is limited between a vertical sailing position of the main panel and a substantially horizontal position of the main panel, e.g. a tilt range of at most 100° in one direction.

In a practical embodiment the tilt angle of the top panel with respect to the main panel is 15 limited between an aligned sailing position of the top panel and a substantially perpendicularly angled position with respect to the main panel, e.g. a tilt range of at most 100° in one direction.

In an embodiment at least one tilting assembly of the wingsail, preferably each tilting 20 assembly, comprises one or more locking devices, e.g. hydraulically operated locking members, e.g. pins, that lock the panels of the wingsail at least in the sailing position so as to form a contiguous wingsail. In a variant one or more locking device are provided to lock the panels of the wingsail in docking position of the wingsail so as to inhibit tilting about a tilting axis.

25

It is preferred for the secondary tilt axis to be parallel to the primary tilt axis, and most preferably perpendicular to the mast rotation axis, but another arrangement is also possible, e.g. at an angle between 60 and 120° with respect to the vertical wingsail rotation axis. This will clearly impact the position of the top panel in downward orientation thereof with respect 30 to the vessel.

The first aspect of the invention is particularly advantageous on a vessel that has at least a first and a second wingsail installation, wherein the mast structures of the wingsail installations are spaced apart by a mast spacing distance and it is envisaged that for docking 35 the wingsails the one wingsail is tilted so as to be lying with its main panel extending towards the other mast structure. For example the mast structures are located on a longitudinal axis -7- of the vessel at a mast spacing distance from one another and the wingsails are brought in a docking position with their main panels extending in longitudinal direction.

The first aspect of the invention allows for a vessel design wherein the total height of each 5 wingsail measured from the lower end of the main panel to the top end of the wingsail is greater than the mast spacing distance.

For docking the wingsails one can envisage that a wingsail, with its top panel still aligned with the corresponding main panel, is brought into an overlapping position with the other 10 wingsail, so that one wingsail lies with a top portion thereof above or below the lower portion of the other wingsail.

In a preferred embodiment of the wingsails and associated preferred docking position, the top panel is folded downward relative to the substantially horizontally arranged main panel, 15 with the respective wingsail parts being dimensioned such so that there is no overlap between the wingsails in the docking position.

In an embodiment the rigid wing sail may comprise a bottom panel having a lower end, an upper end, a leading edge, and a trailing edge, which rigid wingsail bottom panel is 20 connected at its upper end to the lower end of the rigid sail main panel via a tertiary tilting assembly, the tertiary tilting assembly allowing for tilting of the rigid wingsail bottom panel relative to the rigid wingsail main panel about a tertiary tilting axis that is non-parallel, preferably substantially perpendicular, to the vertical wingsail rotation axis, more preferably parallel to the primary tilt axis.

25 This embodiment e.g. can allow for an even closer spacing between the mast structures without overlapping of the wing sails in docking situation.

This embodiment may also facilitate access to the lower end of the wingsail by maintenance crew.

In general the possibility to fold the wingsail at the first tilt axis and/or the third tilt axis may 30 also be used to diminish the horizontal extension of the wingsail in docking situation, e.g. to reduce the shadow over one or more decks of the vessel. This may e.g. be of relevance for a cruise liner. The same effect could also be relevant to reduce the horizontal extension when the main panel would otherwise extend beyond the bow or the stern of the vessel, e.g. of relevance in port, in locks, etc. The same effect could also be relevant to allow for clear deck 35 space for a helicopter pad, funnel structure, etc.

-8-

It is envisaged that the tilting of very large sized wingsails, which may have enormous weight, is facilitated in an embodiment wherein the rigid wing sail is provided with one or more internally arranged tilting procedure ballast water balancing tanks. It is then envisaged that the installation comprises a wingsail balancing system comprising one or more water 5 pumps and a water circuit connecting the pump to said one or more balancing tanks allowing to control and vary the amount of water in said balancing tanks, in particular during tilting of the main panel about the primary tilting axis. The water balancing generally will allow to bring the center of gravity of the tilting wingsail close to the tilt axis. For example when the portion of the wingsail above or a portion below the first tilt axis is heavier than the portion of the 10 wingsail opposite the tilt axis, one could fill one or more balancing tanks in the lightest portion to effect a shift of the center of gravity towards the first tilt axis and thereby reduce the effort required to tilt the wingsail in a controlled manner.

The water balancing system may in an embodiment also be used to stabilize the wingsail in its vertical sailing position, e.g. prior to the engagement of one or more locking devices that 15 lock the wingsail in said position relative to the mast structure.

In an alternative to water ballasting of the wingsail to facilitate the tilting procedure one or more mobile ballast blocks could be provided within the contour of the wingsail main panel.

20 It is envisaged that the motion of the one or more wingsails of a vessel between its erected sailing position and one or more docking positions is effected by a suitable computer controlled tilting system that includes power motors for each tilt axis, said tilting system comprising a memory that stores one or more preprogrammed tilting procedures.

25 As explained above the invention is applicable to very large size wingsails, where the total height may lie between 30 and 120 meters. This will mean that - when present - equipment like the power motors at the first and second tilt axis, and other equipment like actuators for pivoting wingsail trailing flap elements are very high above the deck of the vessel.

30 In order to facilitate access to such equipment as well as allow for inspection of the wingsail, possibly also allow for access to an elevated view bridge, e.g. for cruise liner passengers, it is envisaged in an embodiment that the mast structure is provided with a first personnel or material elevator comprising an elevator cage and a motorized hoisting device for said elevator case, said first elevator extending over at least a major part of the height of the 35 mast.

One can also envisage that the wing sail main panel is provided with a second personnel or material elevator comprising an elevator cage and a motorized hoisting device for said -9- elevator case, said elevator extending over at least a major part of the height of the main panel.

One can also envisage that the top panel is provided with a third personnel or material elevator comprising an elevator cage and a motorized hoisting device for said elevator case, 5 said elevator extending over at least a major part of the height of the top panel.

The mast structure and/or wingsail main and top panels can be provided, in addition to an elevator or as alternative therefore, with stairs or ladders.

10 In a preferred embodiment both the main panel and the top panel are provided at their rear end with at least one wingsail trailing flap element, said flap element being pivotally connected to the wingsail main panel or top panel via a pivot assembly allowing to vary the angle of the trailing flap element, e.g. about a substantially vertical pivot axis.

15 In a preferred embodiment each trailing flap element is an airfoil sectioned flap, e.g. with horizontal frame members and vertical frame members, said frame members supporting a hard skin.

Preferably multiple, independently pivotable trailing flap elements are provided along the rear 20 of the main panel and top panel, each having one or more associated power actuators, e.g. one or more hydraulic jacks, to perform the pivoting of each flap into the desired position.

In an embodiment the pivot axis of the trailing flap element lies within the contour of the main panel or top panel, whereas in another embodiment this pivot axis lies at the very trailing 25 edge of the main or top panel or even further to the rear.

Preferably each trailing flap is embodied as an airfoil body.

In an embodiment the wingsail may comprises one or more leading flap element provided at 30 the front of the main panel and/or top panel, said leading flap elements each being pivotally connected to the wingsail main panel or top panel via a pivot assembly allowing to vary the angle of the leading flap element, e.g. about a substantially vertical pivot axis.

In an embodiment the wingsail is provided with photovoltaic cells to produce electrical power, 35 e.g. such cells being arranged at least on the trailing flap elements.

-10-

In an embodiment wherein photovoltaic cells are arranged on the trailing flap elements, one can envisage that - in a docking position of the wingsail - the installation allows for pivoting of a trailing flap element in order to optimize the production of electrical power with the photovoltaic cells on said flap element.

5

In a preferred embodiment the mast structure comprises a singular column structure, e.g. as a tubular mast, preferably a tubular mast with a substantially closed outer wall, or a lattice structure column. For very large sized wingsails as envisaged herein the column may have a diameter of multiple meters, e.g. between 2 and 4 meters. The mast may be circular in cross- 10 section, but other shapes are also possible, e.g. square, rectangular, oval, etc.

In a less preferred embodiment a mast structure may comprise e.g. two columns side by side on a common rotary base, the primary tilting assembly being located at the top ends of the two columns.

15

In a possible embodiment the singular column structure is embodied as a rotatable column whereof the foot is rotatably connected to the vessel so as to allow for rotation about the mast rotation axis, and whereof the top end is provided with the primary tilting assembly.

20 In a more practical embodiment for very tall masts, the singular column structure comprises a fixed column whereof the foot is fixed to the vessel, and a top end member that is rotatably mounted on the fixed column so as to allow for rotation about the mast rotation axis. Herein the top end member is provided with the primary tilting assembly.

25 In an embodiment the mast structure is telescopic, thereby allowing to vary the distance between the wingsail and the deck of the vessel. This feature can e.g. be put to use with the wingsail in docking position, e.g. to lower the horizontally oriented main panel to reduce the height of the vessel. It can e.g. also be used to change the distance between a downward oriented top panel and the deck or securing assembly. It can e.g. also be used to place the 30 main panel at a more inclined orientation when in its docking position, instead of a more or less horizontal orientation. In an extreme the lower end of the main panel could be brought onto or close by a deck of the vessel, so that the main panel extends as an upward ramp. This may e.g. be of use when harvesting solar energy with photovoltaic cells on the wingsail.

35 In a practical embodiment the rotatable top end member comprises a tubular part that is positioned over the fixed column, e.g. the tubular part has a length of at least 10 meters, one or more bearings being provided between the fixed column and the tubular part.

5 -11-

In a practical embodiment a mast structure rotation drive is provided comprising one or more motors, said drive being adapted to adjust and maintain the desired angular position of the mast structure about the mast rotation axis.

In an embodiment the mast structure rotation drive is embodied to have a weathervaning mode, wherein the wingsail is allowed to weathervane, e.g. in excessive wind conditions.

In an embodiment the vessel is a catamaran vessel having twin hulls.

10

In an embodiment the vessel is an ocean-going cruise liner vessel having multiple passenger cabins.

In an embodiment the vessel not only has a rigid wingsail installation, but also an electrically 15 power propulsion system, the wingsail being provided with photovoltaic cells generating energy for e.g. the propulsion system.

In an embodiment the vessel not only has a rigid wingsail installation but also a liquefied gas propulsion system, e.g. liquefied natural gas (LNG) or LPG, said system including one or 20 more storage tanks for said liquefied gas and one or more combustion motors fueled by said liquefied gas. Such propulsion is cleaner than commonly used bunker fuels in the shipping industry.

In an embodiment a vent line for the venting of gas is provided, which vent line has a section 25 that extends through or along the mast of the wingsail installation. The vent line may have an exhaust opening at the mast top or is eventually connected via a pivotal or flexible connector at the primary tilting assembly to a further vent line section that extends upward through or along said rigid wingsail to a vent line outlet. This allows for reliable and safe venting of liquefied gas in an emergency or when required for operation. If desired a secondary vent 30 mast which may be provided remote from the wingsail mast, e.g. having an exhaust at a location higher that the mast top, e.g. for use when the wingsail is in docking position.

In an embodiment the vessel has one or more storage tanks for gas (e.g. liquefied gas) or chemical products, the vessel having a vent line for venting gaseous products, e.g.

35 evaporated gas or chemical products, as indicated in the above paragraph.

-12- A second aspect of the invention relates to a vessel provided with at least one rigid wingsail installation, said installation comprising: - a mast structure and a rigid wingsail supported by the mast structure, 5 wherein the mast structure comprises a foot that is secured to the vessel and a mast top, wherein the mast top is rotatable about a substantially vertical wingsail rotation axis relative to the vessel to adjust the angle of incidence of the wind, 10 and wherein the mast top is provided with a primary tilting assembly, wherein the rigid wingsail comprises: 15 - a rigid wingsail main panel having a lower end, an upper end, a leading edge, and a trailing edge, which rigid wingsail main panel is connected at a position intermediate its lower and upper ends to the mast structure via the primary tilting assembly, the primary tilting assembly allowing for tilting of the rigid wingsail main panel relative to the mast top about a primary tilt axis that is non-parallel, preferably substantially perpendicular, to the vertical wingsail 20 rotation axis, wherein the vessel has at least a first and a second wingsail installation, the mast structures of said wingsail installations being spaced apart by a mast spacing distance, 25 wherein the total height of each wingsail measured from the lower end of the main panel to the top end of the wingsail is greater than the mast spacing distance, and wherein the installation is adapted to bring each wingsail in a docking position wherein the main panel is substantially horizontal, so that the second wingsail lies with a top portion thereof above or below the lower portion of the first wingsail.

30

As explained with reference to the first aspect of the invention, this second aspect of the invention allows for relatively reduced spacing of the mast structure in combination with large sized wingsails that are effectively brought in this docking position when desired.

A third aspect of the present invention relates to a vessel provided with at least one rigid 35 wingsail installation, said installation comprising: - a mast structure and a rigid wingsail supported by the mast structure, wherein the mast structure comprises a foot that is secured to the vessel and a mast top, -13- wherein the mast top is rotatable about a substantially vertical wingsail rotation axis relative 5 to the vessel to adjust the angle of incidence of the wind, and wherein the mast top is provided with a primary tilting assembly, wherein the rigid wingsail comprises: 10 - a rigid wingsail main panel having a lower end, an upper end, a leading edge, and a trailing edge, which rigid wingsail main panel is connected at a position intermediate its lower and upper ends to the mast structure via the primary tilting assembly, the primary tilting assembly allowing for tilting of the rigid wingsail main panel relative to the mast top about a primary tilt 15 axis that is non-parallel, preferably substantially perpendicular, to the vertical wingsail rotation axis, wherein - for tilting of the main panel about the primary tilting axis - the installation comprises one or more hydraulic jacks between the mast top and the main panel, as well as a hydraulic 20 group including a motor driven hydraulic pump, a reservoir for hydraulic fluid, and a hydraulic circuit connected to said one or more hydraulic jacks.

As explained with reference to the first aspect of the invention, this third aspect of the invention allows for efficient, safe and controlled tilting of the main panel (and all other 25 wingsail elements that perform the same tilting motion).

A fourth aspect of the present invention relates to a vessel provided with at least one rigid wingsail installation, said installation comprising: 30 - a mast structure and a rigid wingsail supported by the mast structure, wherein the mast structure comprises a foot that is secured to the vessel and a mast top, wherein the mast top is rotatable about a substantially vertical wingsail rotation axis relative 35 to the vessel to adjust the angle of incidence of the wind, and wherein the mast top is provided with a primary tilting assembly, wherein the rigid wingsail comprises: -14- - a rigid wingsail main panel having a lower end, an upper end, a leading edge, and a trailing 5 edge, which rigid wingsail main panel is connected at a position intermediate its lower and upper ends to the mast structure via the primary tilting assembly, the primary tilting assembly allowing for tilting of the rigid wingsail main panel relative to the mast top about a primary tilt axis that is non-parallel, preferably substantially perpendicular, to the vertical wingsail rotation axis, 10 wherein the rigid wing sail is provided with one or more internally arranged tilting procedure ballast water balancing tanks, wherein the installation comprises a wingsail balancing system comprising one or more water 15 pumps and a water circuit connecting to said one or more balancing tanks allowing to control and vary the amount of water in said balancing tanks, in particular during tilting of the main panel about the primary tilting axis.

As explained with reference to the first aspect of the invention, this fourth aspect of the 20 invention allows for efficient, safe and controlled tilting of the main panel (and all other wingsail elements that perform the same tilting motion).

A fifth aspect of the present invention relates to a vessel provided with at least one rigid wingsail installation, said installation comprising: 25 - a mast structure and a rigid wingsail supported by the mast structure, wherein the mast structure comprises a foot that is secured to the vessel and a mast top, 30 wherein the mast top is rotatable about a substantially vertical wingsail rotation axis relative to the vessel to adjust the angle of incidence of the wind, and wherein the mast top is provided with a primary tilting assembly, 35 wherein the rigid wingsail comprises: -15- - a rigid wingsail main panel having a lower end, an upper end, a leading edge, and a trailing edge, which rigid wingsail main panel is connected at a position intermediate its lower and upper ends to the mast structure via the primary tilting assembly, the primary tilting assembly allowing for tilting of the rigid wingsail main panel relative to the mast top about a primary tilt 5 axis that is non-parallel, preferably substantially perpendicular, to the vertical wingsail rotation axis, and wherein the wingsail optionally comprises a rigid wingsail top panel having a lower end, an upper end, a leading edge, and a trailing edge, which rigid wingsail top panel is connected 10 at its lower end to the upper end of the rigid sail main panel via a secondary tilting assembly, the secondary tilting assembly allowing for tilting of the rigid wingsail top panel relative to the rigid wingsail main panel about a secondary tilting axis that is non-parallel, preferably substantially perpendicular, to the vertical wingsail rotation axis, more preferably parallel to the primary tilt axis, 15 and wherein the mast structure is provided with a first personnel or material elevator comprising an elevator cage and a motorized hoisting device for said elevator case, said first elevator extending over at least a major part of the height of the mast, 20 and wherein, optionally, the wing sail main panel is provided with a second personnel or material elevator comprising an elevator cage and a motorized hoisting device for said elevator case, said elevator extending over at least a major part of the height of the main panel, 25 and wherein, optionally, the top panel is provided with a third personnel or material elevator comprising an elevator cage and a motorized hoisting device for said elevator case, said elevator extending over at least a major part of the height of the top panel.

As explained with reference to the first aspect of the invention, this fifth aspect of the 30 invention allows for efficient and safe access of crew members and/or passengers to elevated locations in the wingsail and the mast, e.g. to a view bridge in the main panel.

A sixth aspect of the present invention relates to a vessel provided with at least one rigid wingsail installation, said installation comprising: 35 - a mast structure and a rigid wingsail supported by the mast structure, wherein the mast structure comprises a foot that is secured to the vessel and a mast top, -16- wherein the mast top is rotatable about a substantially vertical wingsail rotation axis relative to the vessel to adjust the angle of incidence of the wind, 5 and wherein the mast top is provided with a primary tilting assembly, wherein the rigid wingsail comprises: 10 - a rigid wingsail main panel having a lower end, an upper end, a leading edge, and a trailing edge, which rigid wingsail main panel is connected at a position intermediate its lower and upper ends to the mast structure via the primary tilting assembly, the primary tilting assembly allowing for tilting of the rigid wingsail main panel relative to the mast top about a primary tilt axis that is non-parallel, preferably substantially perpendicular, to the vertical wingsail 15 rotation axis, - at least one wingsail trailing flap element, said flap element being pivotally connected to the rigid wingsail main panel via a pivot assembly allowing to vary the angle of incidence of the flap element, 20 wherein the installation is adapted to bring the wingsail in a docking position wherein the main panel is substantially horizontal, and wherein at least the wingsail trailing flap element of the wingsail is provided with 25 photovoltaic cells to produce electrical power, and wherein the installation is adapted to allow for pivoting of the flap element whilst the wingsail is in its docking position in order to optimize the production of electrical power with the photovoltaic cells on said flap element.

30

As explained with reference to the first aspect of the invention, this sixth aspect of the invention allows for optimal harvesting of sunlight by means of the photovoltaic cells on the wingsail flap elements.

35 A seventh aspect of the present invention relates to a vessel provided with at least one rigid wingsail installation, said installation comprising: -17- - a mast structure and a rigid wingsail supported by the mast structure, wherein the mast structure comprises a foot that is secured to the vessel and a mast top, 5 wherein the mast top is rotatable about a substantially vertical wingsail rotation axis relative to the vessel to adjust the angle of incidence of the wind, and wherein the mast top is provided with a primary tilting assembly, 10 wherein the rigid wingsail comprises: - a rigid wingsail main panel having a lower end, an upper end, a leading edge, and a trailing edge, which rigid wingsail main panel is connected at a position intermediate its lower and upper ends to the mast structure via the primary tilting assembly, the primary tilting assembly 15 allowing for tilting of the rigid wingsail main panel relative to the mast top about a primary tilt axis that is non-parallel, preferably substantially perpendicular, to the vertical wingsail rotation axis, wherein said vessel comprises one or more storage tanks for gas, e.g. liquefied gas or other 20 liquid or gaseous chemical products, wherein possibly said vessel comprises a liquefied gas propulsion system, e.g. on LNG or LPG, said propulsion system including one or more combustion motors fueled by said liquefied gas, wherein a vent line for the venting of liquefied or evaporated gas is provided, which vent line 25 has a section that extends through or along said mast structure and is eventually connected via a pivotal or flexible connector at the primary tilting assembly to a possible further section that extends upward through or along said rigid wingsail to a vent line outlet.

As explained with reference to the first aspect of the invention, this seventh aspect of the 30 invention allows for efficient and safe venting of liquefied or evaporated gas or chemicals in an emergency or when required for operation.

An eighth aspect of the present invention relates to a vessel provided with at least one rigid wingsail installation, said installation comprising: 35 -18- - a mast structure comprising a foot that is secured to the vessel and a rigid wingsail supported by the mast structure, e.g. according to one or more of the other aspects of the invention; 5 wherein the wingsail is removable from the mast structure; and wherein the vessel is provided with a crane assembly that is mountable on the mast structure when the wingsail has been removed.

10 The eight aspect of the invention also relates to a transportation system, said system comprising: - a vessel provided with at least one rigid wingsail installation, said installation comprising a mast structure comprising a foot that is secured to the vessel and a rigid wingsail supported by the mast structure, e.g. according to one or more of the other aspects of the invention, 15 wherein the wingsail is removable from the mast structure; - a crane assembly that is mountable on the mast structure when the wingsail has been removed.

The eight aspect of the invention also relates to a method for providing a vessel having at 20 least one rigid wingsail installation with crane capacity, said method comprising the steps of: - providing a vessel with at least one rigid wingsail installation, said installation comprising a mast structure comprising a foot that is secured to the vessel and a rigid wingsail supported by the mast structure, e.g. according to one or more of the other aspects of the invention, - removing the wingsail from the mast structure; 25 - mounting a crane assembly on the mast structure when the wingsail has been removed.

The eight aspect of the invention is based on the insight that a mast structure embodied to support a rigid wingsail, e.g. a large sized wingsail, has, or can be designed to have, sufficient strength to act as a mount for a crane assembly.

30

This eight aspect e.g. allows for a cargo vessel to be operated for some cargo with one or more wingsails, e.g. if no crane capacity for handling of cargo is required, and to be converted into a vessel having crane capacity if the cargo handling so requires. For instances some vessels are operated as bulk cargo vessels to be loaded and/or unloaded by 35 machinery not requiring a crane, e.g. for transportation of grain. These vessels may, e.g. in another period of the year be operated as vessels having crane capacity for transport of other cargo.

-19-

So a vessel could be operated for one trip, or one period, with one or more wingsails, and for another trip, or another period, with one or more wingsail installations converted into cranes. One could also envisaged that the conversion to a crane is only done when loading/unloading takes place, the wingsail being mounted again when the vessel is to leave 5 port. The crane assembly could be stored on the vessel, e.g. in a dedicated storage facility, or in a port, e.g. when the vessel is used on a specific route.

It is envisaged that in embodiments not the entire mast structure as used to support the wingsail is maintained when the crane assembly is mounted, but e.g. parts of the “sailing 10 mast structure” can be removed, e.g. a top portion of the sailing mast structure, to accommodate the mounting of the crane assembly. As is preferred at least the lower portion of the sailing mast structure, in particular the foot, are retained to mount the crane assembly thereon.

15 For example the mast structure, or part of the mast structure, can be embodied as a kingpost for a kingpost crane. In such a known crane design, a revolving crane superstructure is arranged to fit over and revolve around the kingpost.

In an embodiment the crane assembly, e.g. in the above kingpost crane, comprises a boom, 20 as well as hoisting and slewing devices for hoisting a load and for slewing the boom. The crane assembly may also include an crane operator cabin.

With a stationary mast structure, or with a rotary mast structure that is kept stationary during crane operation, preferably multiple vertically spaced radial bearing members are provided 25 to absorb the overturning moment of the crane, as well as at least one axial bearing member to support axial loads. For example a single combined axial and radial bearing assembly is provided at a top end of the mast structure, and at least one radial bearing member is arranged at a lower position.

30 In an embodiment the crane assembly may include a slewable member to be mounted over the mast, e.g. so as to extend around a lower portion of the mast structure, and a pivotable boom pivotally connected to the slewable member. The pivoting of the boom can e.g. be done with one or more hydraulic devices and/or with one or more luffing cable.

35 The crane assembly may comprise at least one hoisting winch, a hoisting cable, and a load connector, e.g. a crane hook, a grab, etc., the winch being operable to lower and raise the load suspended from or otherwise engaged by the load connector.

-20-

For example the mast structure and crane assembly is a kingpost crane system, e.g. as marketed under the name Seatrax.

5 For example the vessel of the eighth aspect of the invention may have a kingpost member secured to the vessel and a mast top member that is fitted over and rotatable about the kingpost member so as to rotate about a substantially vertical wingsail rotation axis relative to the vessel to adjust the angle of incidence of the wind. When converting to crane capacity the wingsail as well as the mast top member are removed and the crane superstructure is 10 mounted on the kingpost.

In an embodiment the mast top is provided with a primary tilting assembly, and the rigid wingsail comprises: - a rigid wingsail main panel having a lower end, an upper end, a leading edge, and a trailing edge, which rigid wingsail main panel is connected at a position intermediate its lower and 15 upper ends to the mast structure via the primary tilting assembly, the primary tilting assembly allowing for tilting of the rigid wingsail main panel relative to the mast top about a primary tilt axis that is non-parallel, preferably substantially perpendicular, to the vertical wingsail rotation axis.

20 It will be appreciated that a vessel may comprise any combination of the aspects mentioned above. It will also be appreciated that a vessel according to any of the mentioned aspects may include one or more features or optional features that have been discussed herein in the context of one or more other aspects of the invention.

25 A vessel may have multiple wingsail installations. For example a cargo vessel may have two rows of wingsail installations, with one or more cargo holds, possibly with hatches, centrally between the wingsail installations.

In a vessel with multiple wingsail installations one can envisage that a limited number of said 30 wingsail installations, e.g. just one or one near each cargo hold, is convertible or transformable into a crane as disclosed herein.

The present invention also relates to a method for transportation with a vessel, wherein use is made of a vessel according to one or more of the mentioned aspects of the invention.

35 -21-

The present invention also relates to a method for transportation with a vessel, wherein use is made of a vessel according to one or more of the mentioned aspects of the invention and wherein the one or more wingsails are brought into a docking position as disclosed herein.

5 The present invention also relates to a wingsail installation as disclosed herein adapted to be mounted on a vessel.

The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings: 10 fig. 1 shows schematically an example of a vessel according to the invention; fig. 2 shows schematically in more detail a wingsail installation of the vessel of figure 1 in its erected sailing position; fig. 3 shows schematically in side view the wingsail installations of the vessel of figure 1 in a 15 first docking position; fig. 4 shows schematically the vessel of figure 3 from above; fig. 5 shows schematically in side view the wingsail installations of the vessel of figure 1 in a second docking position; fig. 6 shows schematically the vessel of figure 5 from above; 20 fig. 7 shows schematically a single wingsail installation of figure 5; fig. 8 shows schematically the wingsail of figures 1 and 2 near the top end of the mast; fig. 9 shows schematically in horizontal cross-section the wingsail of figures 1 and 2 at the first tilting axis; fig. 10 shows schematically the wingsail installation of figures 1 and 2 near the foot of the 25 mast structure; fig. 11 shows schematically an alternative embodiment of the mast structure.

With reference to figures 1-10 now an exemplary embodiment of a vessel and rigid wingsail installation according to the invention will be described. On the basis of this embodiment the 30 first aspect of the invention as well as the second to eighth aspects of the invention will be elucidated. The embodiment illustrates that aspects of the invention may well be used in all sorts of combinations, as well as illustrates that preferred or optional features of the first aspect of the invention may be readily combined with any of the other aspects of the invention.

The figure 1 shows a vessel 1, here - by way of example - a catamaran vessel. The vessel 1 is an ocean-going vessel, e.g. having a hull length of 135 meters or more.

35 -22-

The vessel 1 is provided with two generally similar rigid wingsail installations 10 with very large sized wingsails, which will be described in more detail below.

5 As is preferred the rigid wingsail installations are positioned along a longitudinal line over the hull of the vessel, e.g. a midline of the vessel. Other arrangements, e.g. in two rows along respective sides of the vessel, are also possible.

The one or more wingsail installations can be mounted on top of a superstructure of the 10 vessel, e.g. in a cruise liner or ferry.

In general the wingsail installation comprises a mast structure 15 and a rigid wingsail 30 that is supported by the mast structure.

15 The mast structure 15 comprises a foot 16 that is secured to the vessel and a mast top 17.

In this example the mast structure is a singular column structure embodied as a tubular mast with a substantially closed outer wall. The mast has a diameter of about 2.5 meters and here is circular in cross-section.

20

The foot 16 of the mast 15 is rotatably connected to the vessel so as to allow for rotation about a non-variable vertical mast rotation axis. The mast, here including its mast top 17, is rotatable about wingsail rotation axis relative to the vessel to adjust the angle of incidence of the wind on the wingsail, at least on the main panel thereof. To perform controlled rotation of 25 the mast a motorized drive 19 is provided, e.g. including a motor and a transmission, e.g. a gear box.

It is envisaged that in excessive wind conditions the mast is allowed to freely rotate, possibly with some damping, in order to allow the wingsail to weathervane.

30

When sailing is done the mast is rotated to obtain the desired propulsion by means of the wingsail.

At the top end of the mast 15 a primary tilting assembly 20 is provided as will be explained in 35 more detail below.

-23-

The rigid wingsail 30 comprises a rigid wingsail main panel 31 having a lower end, an upper end, a leading edge, and a trailing edge. This main panel 31 is connected at a position intermediate its lower and upper ends, preferably about halfway its height, to the mast structure via the primary tilting assembly 20.

5

The primary tilting assembly allows for tilting of the main panel 31 and all wingsail parts connected thereto relative to the mast top about a primary tilt axis 21 that is substantially perpendicular to the vertical wingsail rotation axis.

10 The wingsail 30 also comprises a rigid wingsail top panel 35 having a lower end, an upper end, a leading edge, and a trailing edge. The top panel 35 is connected at its lower end to the upper end of the main panel 31 via a secondary tilting assembly 40.

The secondary tilting assembly 40 allows for the tilting of the top panel 35 relative to the main 15 panel 31 about a secondary tilting axis 41 that is substantially perpendicular to the vertical wingsail rotation axis, here parallel to the primary tilt axis 21.

In the depicted embodiment the first tilt axis 21 is arranged at approximately 1/3 of the total height of the wingsail 10 and the second tilt axis 41 at about 2/3 of the total height of the 20 wingsail 10.

It can be seen that the main panel 31 is provided with an elongated mast structure receiving recess 32 wherein the mast 15 is received when the main panel 31 is in its vertically erected sailing position (see figures 1,2). This enhances the streamline and thereby efficiency of the 25 wingsail.

In the depicted embodiment it can also be seen that both the main panel 31 and the top panel 35 are provided at their rear end with at least one wingsail trailing flap element 36, here each with multiple trailing flap elements. Each trailing flap element 36 is pivotally 30 connected to the wingsail main panel or top panel via a pivot assembly allowing to vary the angle of the trailing flap element, e.g. about a substantially vertical pivot axis.

As is preferred each trailing flap element is an airfoil sectioned flap, e.g. with horizontal frame members and vertical frame members, said frame members supporting a hard skin.

35 For each pivotable trailing flap elements one or more associated power actuators 38 are provided, e.g. one or more hydraulic jacks, to perform the pivoting of each flap into the desired position.

-24-

The wingsail installation is adapted to bring the wingsails 10 in a first docking position as is illustrated in figures 3 and 4. In this docking position a wingsail 10, with its top panel 35 still aligned with the corresponding main panel 31, is brought into an overlapping position with 5 the other wingsail 10, so that one wingsail lies with a top portion thereof above the lower portion of the other wingsail. It is also possible to arrange said top portion below the other wingsail if desired. The overlap can be clearly recognized in figures 3 and 4.

To fasten the wingsails in this docking position one can envisage the use of a temporary 10 securing assembly in the region of overlap of the wingsails, allowing to secure the wingsails to each other. For example such an assembly is mounted on the underlying wingsail prior to the tilting procedure, or is even integrated in the wingsail and operated to be extended from the wingsail for operational use.

15 The figures 3 and 4 illustrate that the main panel is tilted to an approximate horizontal position, spaced above the deck of the vessel by the effective height of the mast 15.

The figures 5, 6 and 7 illustrate a more preferred docking situation, wherein the top panel 35 of one or more, here both, wingsails is folded downward relative to the substantially 20 horizontally arranged main panel 31. The respective wingsail parts are dimensioned in combination with the spacing between the masts 15 that there is no horizontal overlap between the wingsails in the docking situation.

As schematically depicted in this preferred docking situation the top end reaches down to the 25 vessel. Here, at 50, the vessel comprises a docking position securing assembly that is adapted to engage on the top panel 35 in its downward oriented docking position, with the main panel substantially horizontal 31, and to secure said top panel 35 relative to the vessel.

As is preferred the top end of the top panel 35 in its downward oriented docking position can 30 be reached by maintenance crew members, e.g. to perform maintenance on equipment on the top of the wingsail such as radar and telecommunication equipment.

Figure 8 schematically illustrates an embodiment of the arrangement at the top end of the mast 15. The mast top end supports a robust shaft 21 that forms the tilt axis in this 35 embodiment. The shaft 21 is horizontally arranged and follows the rotation of the mast top end, here of the entire mast 15. Instead of a shaft 21 other hinge or pivoting structures may be provided.

-25-

This primary tilting assembly 20 is associated with one or more power drive motors arranged between the mast top and the main panel, here a row of multiple hydraulic jacks 55, to provide tilting force for performing the tilting of the wingsail about the primary tilt axis 21. Only 5 the connectors of these jacks are depicted in figures 8 and 9.

It is noted that the secondary tilting assembly 40 can be embodied similar to the primary tilting assembly, e.g. also one or more power drive motors arranged between the main panel and the top panel, e.g. one or more hydraulic jacks, to provide tilting force for performing the 10 tilting of the top panel 35 about the secondary tilt axis 41.

In this embodiment it is depicted that a hydraulic group 60 is provided including a motor driven hydraulic pump, a reservoir for hydraulic fluid, and a hydraulic circuit, said hydraulic group being connected to one or more hydraulic jacks arranged between the mast top and 15 the main panel, and/or between the main panel and the top panel. In this embodiment the group is arranged at the top end of the mast, however a location near the foot of the mast or within the foot of the mast, is more preferred.

Figures 8 and 9 illustrate, as is preferred, that the tilting shaft 21 is arranged parallel to and 20 horizontally offset from a vertical midplane of the wingsail, for example between 1 and 2 meters offset. This allows to create ample space for the power motors to be housed within the contour of the main panel yet next to the shaft 21 and to obtain a favorable moment arm between the axis 21 and said power motors 55.

25 It is illustrated that the tilting shaft 21 is offset horizontally such that a portion of the shaft extends outside the contour of the main panel. A bulbous, e.g. streamlined, cover is provided on said panel to cover the extending portion of the tilting shaft.

In an embodiment not shown in more detail the rigid wing sail comprises a bottom panel that 30 is connected at its upper end to the lower end of the rigid sail main panel via a tertiary tilting assembly, the tertiary tilting assembly allowing for tilting of the rigid wingsail bottom panel relative to the rigid wingsail main panel about a tertiary tilting axis that is non-parallel, preferably substantially perpendicular, to the vertical wingsail rotation axis, more preferably parallel to the primary tilt axis.

It is envisaged that the rigid wing sail is provided with one or more internally arranged tilting procedure ballast water balancing tanks, e.g. at 70 as depicted in figure 7. The installation 35 -26- then may comprise a wingsail balancing system comprising one or more water pumps and a water circuit connecting to said one or more balancing tanks allowing to control and vary the amount of water in said balancing tanks, e.g. by pumping seawater into and out of the tanks 70.

5

As explained the wingsails 10 are envisaged to be of very large size, e.g. having a total height of 85 meters measured from the lowermost end to the uppermost end of the wingsail. The airfoil body of the main panel may have a thickness in the range of several meters, e.g. about 4 meters, with the mast having a diameter of 3.5 meters. The weight of the wingsail 10 may well be several hundreds of tonnes, e.g. between 300 and 600 tonnes.

The height of the mast in the depicted embodiment may lie in the range between 35 and 45 meters.

15 In order to allow for access of crew members or others to the mast top and higher up, it is envisaged that in an embodiment the mast structure is provided with a first personnel or material elevator comprising an elevator cage and a motorized hoisting device for said elevator case, said first elevator extending over at least a major part of the height of the mast. Optionally the wing sail main panel is provided with a second personnel or material 20 elevator comprising an elevator cage and a motorized hoisting device for said elevator case, said elevator extending over at least a major part of the height of the main panel.

Figure 11 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the mast structure 80. A fixed column 81 has its foot 82 fixed to the vessel 1. A top end member 83 is rotatably mounted on the fixed 25 column 81 so as to allow for rotation about the mast rotation axis. The top end member is provided with the primary tilting assembly, here depicted as shaft 21.

Between the fixed column 81 and the member 83 one or more bearings are arranged, here a radial bearing 84 near the top of the column 81 and a radial and axial bearing 85 near the 30 lower end of member 83.

Reference numeral 86 denotes an access door for crew members into the mast, e.g. to provide access to an elevator and/or a stairwell in the mast structure 80. Rotation of the mast top end member 83 may be effected by a motorized drive, schematically depicted at 88.. This 35 drive may be arranged below deck if desired, or in the mast or mast foot.

-27-

The skilled person will appreciate that in an embodiment the fixed column 81 can serve as a mount for a crane assembly, e.g. as a kingpost, as discussed above with reference to the eighth aspects of the invention. When converting to crane capacity the wingsail as well as the member 83 are removed and the crane revolving superstructure is mounted on the 5 column 81.

In another embodiment the member 83 is not removed from the column 81, for example -after removal of the wingsail - a crane boom being pivotally attached to the member 83. The crane boom can form part of a superstructure including one or more winches, cables, and operator cabin.

Claims (19)

1. Vessel (1) provided with at least one rigid wing sail installation (10), which installation comprises: - a mast structure (15) and a rigid wing sail (10) supported by the mast structure, wherein the mast structure is a foot (16) has attached to the vessel and has a mast tip (17), wherein the mast tip (17) is rotatable about a substantially vertical wing sail axis relative to the vessel to adjust the angle of incidence of the wind, and wherein the mast tip is provided with a primary tilt assembly (20), wherein the rigid wing sail comprises: - a rigid wing sail main panel (31) having a lower end, an upper end, a front edge and a rear edge, wherein the rigid wing sail main panel (31) is in a location between them upper and lower ends are connected to the mast structure (15) via the primary tilt assembly, the primary tilt assembly tilting the rigid wing sail main panel (31) relative to the mast top allows about a primary tilt axis (21) that is non-parallel, preferably substantially perpendicular, to the vertical wing sail axis, 25. a rigid wing sail top panel (35) with a lower end, an upper end, a front edge and a rear edge, which rigid wing sail top panel (35) is connected at its lower end to the upper end of the rigid wing sail main panel via a secondary tilt assembly (40), said secondary tilt assembly tilting the rigid wing sail top panel (35) relative to the rigid wing sail main panel 30 about a secondary tilt axis (41) that is non-parallel, preferably substantially perpendicular, to the vertical wing sail axis, more preferably parallel to the primary tilt axis (21). -29- A vessel according to claim 1, wherein the main panel (31) is provided with an elongated receiving recess (32) for the mast structure, wherein the mast structure (15) is received when the main panel is in its vertically erected sail position. Vessel according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the wing sail installation (10) is arranged to bring the wing sail into a docking position, wherein the main panel (31) is substantially horizontal and the top panel (35) is directed downwards, preferably in essentially vertical. The vessel of claim 3, wherein the vessel comprises a docking position locking assembly (50) adapted to engage the top panel (35) in its downwardly facing docking position, wherein the main panel (31) is substantially horizontal, and to fix the top panel relative to the vessel. Vessel according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the primary tilting assembly (20) is provided with one or more drive motors (55) arranged between the mast top (17) and the main panel (31), for example one or more hydraulic cylinders, to provide tilting force for performing tilting of the wing sail about the primary tilt axis. 20 Vessel according to any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the secondary tilt assembly (40) is provided with one or more drive motors arranged between the main panel and the top panel, for example one or more hydraulic cylinders, to provide tilting force for execution of tilting the top panel relative to the secondary tilt axis. 7. Vessel as claimed in claim 5 or 6, wherein a hydraulic group (60) is provided with a motor-driven hydraulic pump, a reservoir for hydraulic fluid, and a hydraulic circuit, which hydraulic group is connected to one or more hydraulic cylinders (55) arranged between the mast top and the main panel and / or between the main panel and the top panel. A vessel according to any of claims 1-7, wherein each tilt assembly (20,40) comprises a tilt axis (21,41), for example attached to the mast top (17) or to the main panel 35 (31) at the upper end thereof and wherein the first and / or second tilting axis (21, 41) is preferably arranged parallel to and horizontally offset with respect to a vertical center plane of the wing sail. -30- A vessel according to any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the vessel (1) has at least a first and a second wing sail installation (10), wherein the mast constructions of the wing sail installations are placed over a mast spaced apart, and wherein the wing sail installations allow a docking position of the wing sails whereby one wing sail (10) is tilted so that it lies with its main panel extended to the other mast construction. 10. Vessel according to claim 9, wherein in that docking position the top panel (35) is folded downwards relative to the substantially horizontally oriented main panel. 11. Vessel as claimed in any of claims 1-10, wherein the rigid wing sail comprises a bottom panel with a lower end, an upper end, a front edge, and a rear edge, which rigid wing sail bottom panel is connected at its upper end to the lower end. end of the rigid wing sail main panel via a tertiary tilt assembly, which tertiary tilt assembly allows tilting of the rigid wing sail bottom panel relative to the rigid wing sail main panel about a tertiary tilt axis that is non-parallel, preferably substantially perpendicular, to the vertical wing sail pivot preferably parallel to the primary tilt axis. 20 A vessel according to any of claims 1-11, wherein the rigid wing sail is provided with one or more internally arranged tilting procedure ballast water balancing tanks (70), and wherein the installation comprises a wing sail balancing system comprising one or more water pumps and a water circuit connected to the one or more balancing tanks 25 to make it possible to control and vary the amount of water in those balancing tanks. 13. Vessel according to any of claims 1 - 12, wherein the mast construction (15; 80) is provided with a first personnel or material lift comprising a lift cage and a motorized hoist for the lift cage, which first lift extends over at least one a large part of the height of the mast, and wherein, optionally, the wing sail main panel is provided with a second staff or material lift comprising a lift cage and a motorized hoist for the lift cage, which lift extends over at least a large part of the height of the main panel. 35 A vessel according to any of claims 1-13, wherein both the main panel (31) and the top panel (35) are provided at their rear end with at least one wing sail rear flap element (36), which rear flap element is pivotally connected to the wing sail main panel or top panel via a pivot assembly (37) that makes it possible to vary the angle of the rear flap element, for example about a substantially vertical pivot axis. 5 A vessel according to any of claims 1 to 14, wherein the wing sail is provided with solar cells to generate electric current, for example wherein such cells are arranged on at least the rear flaps (36). A vessel according to any of claims 1-15, wherein the mast structure (80) is a single column structure with a fixed column (81) whose foot (82) is fixed to the vessel, and an upper end element (83) that is rotatable mounted on the fixed column to allow rotation about the mast rotation axis, and wherein the upper end element is provided with the primary tilt assembly. 15 A vessel according to any of claims 1 to 16, wherein the mast structure is telescopic, whereby it is possible to vary the distance between the wing sail and the neighboring deck of the vessel. 18. Method for transporting with a vessel, wherein use is made of a vessel according to one or more of the preceding claims. 19. Method for operating a vessel according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more wing sails are brought into a docking position.