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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Valvular sail power plant

Patent ·
OSTI ID:6247480
A vertical-axis feathering windmill is described comprising: (a) at least one open framework vane; (b) at least one flexible sheet having at least one vertical edge, the sheet rotatably held on the framework along one edge; (c) spar means for each sheet, comprising resilient horizontal members attached is spaced equidistant relationship along the vertical length of the sheet and attached so that the sheet is able to billow between spars; and (d) resilient means between the sheet and spar combination and its corresponding framework vane biasing the sheet and spar combination towards the framework such that wind on the leeward side of the windmill adds to its rotation. The sheet and spar combination otherwise are pivotable by the wind.
Assignee:
NOV; EDB-87-155270; NOV-87-074139
Patent Number(s):
US 4684817
OSTI ID:
6247480
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English