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The SkySails-System consists of three simple main components: A towing kite with rope, a launch and recovery system, and a control system for automatic operation.
Instead of a traditional sail fitted to a mast, SkySails uses large towing kites for the propulsion of the ship. Their shape is comparable to that of a paraglider.
The towing kite is made of high-strength and weatherproof textiles.
The tethered flying SkySails can operate at altitudes between 100 and 300 m where stronger and more stable winds prevail.
By means of dynamic flight maneuvers , e.g. the figure of "8", SkySails generate two to three times more power per square meter sail area than conventional sails.
The tractive forces are transmitted to the ship via a highly tear-proof, synthetic
rope. The energy supply of the control pod is ensured by means of a patented special cable integrated in the towing rope.
During launch, the telescopic mast raises the towing kite - which is folded like an accordeon - from the kite storage. Subsequently, the telescopic mast extends to its maximum height. The towing kite then unfolds to its full size and can be launched. The winch releases the towing rope until operating altitude has been reached.
The recovery process is performed in the reverse order of the launch. The winch retracts the towing rope and the towing kite docks on the launch and recovery mast. The towing kite is then reefed. The telescopic mast retracts and the towing kite is stowed in the kite storage along with the control pod.
The entire launch and recovery procedure is carried out largely automatically and lasts approx. 10 - 20 mins each.
The ship’s crew can operate the SkySails-System from the bridge. Emergency actions can be initiated at the push of a button. The SkySails' automatic control system performs the tasks of steering the towing kite and adjusting its flight path. All information on the operation status of the system is displayed in real-time on the monitor of the SkySails workstation and thus easily accessible for the crew.
The SkySails-System supplements the existing propulsion of a vessel and is used offshore, outside the 3-mile zone and traffic separation areas.
The SkySails-System is designed for operation in predominantly prevailing wind forces of 3 to 8 Beaufort at sea. The system can be recovered, but not launched at wind forces below 3 Beaufort.
With regard to classification society regulations, the SkySails-System is categorized and treated as an auxiliary propulsion. The operation of the system is not limited by any regulations at present.
Their double-wall profile gives the SkySails towing kites aerodynamic properties similar to the wing of an aircraft. Thus, the SkySails-System can operate not just downwind, but at courses of up to 50° to the wind as well.
The textile towing kite is easy to stow when folded and requires very little space on board ship. A folded 160m² SkySails for example is only the size of a telephone booth.
In contrast to conventional sail propulsions the SkySails-System has no superstructures which may obstruct loading and unloading at harbors or navigating under bridges, since the towing kite is recovered as soon as the 3-mile zone is reached.
Unlike conventional forms of wind propulsion, the heeling caused by the SkySails-System is minimal and virtually negligible in terms of ship safety and operation.
Depending on the operator’s preferences, the main engine can either be throttled back to save fuel, or kept running at constant power to increase the ship's speed.
SkySails operates within a powerful network of renowned development partners and suppliers from the shipping and airplane industry. Essentially, the SkySails technology consists of a combination of tried and tested components from both areas - e.g. mooring winches from the offshore industry.
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 - SkySails towing kite
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