Sail propulsion: watch out for stall!_
Driven by new regulations limiting pollutant emissions, maritime transport is beginning its energy transition. It’s a true engineering challenge, relying on both hardware innovations (notably sail propulsion systems or carbon capture technologies) and software innovations to optimize ship design and energy efficiency.
Wind propulsion, leading the maritime decarbonization effort_
Sail propulsion, known for centuries, is being reimagined and adapted to meet demanding performance and operational requirements. The effectiveness of these systems depends heavily on their settings, which must be continuously adjusted to wind and navigation conditions and to the specific characteristics of the equipped vessels.
With OSE in control, boost operational efficiency_
OSE has developed an innovative solution enabling real-time control of sails to maximize their useful thrust on the vessel, while respecting operational constraints related to the mass and inertia of the sails and associated systems, the effects of these propulsors on ship motion (heel, drift), and vessel safety.
The solution is based on a hybrid approach combining AI, mechanical and aerodynamic computation, and control algorithms:
A module for short-term wind speed and direction prediction, based on onboard wind measurements (compatible with anemometer or lidar) and an AI model trained on historical data
A dynamic digital twin of the sails and vessel, allowing thrust calculation for given settings and wind conditions, accounting for aerodynamic interactions between sails and the influence of vessel motion
Predictive control algorithms that optimally adjust sail settings to maximize thrust, by anticipating wind changes and factoring in sail inertia
The development of intelligent adjustment systems for wind propulsion is a major step forward in the maritime energy transition. By automating tuning processes and integrating predictive models, OSE enhances performance while ensuring vessel safety.
Solution benefits_
Increased thrust performance
Optimized sail movement management, reducing wear and failures
Automated management to assist the crew
