Abstract

Various types of hybrid drives are increasingly being applied in transportation. Wing sails can provide additional propulsion to a motor-driven ship, thereby decreasing fossil fuel consumption. This article contributes to the selection and consideration of the influencing parameters for applying wing sails for ship propulsion. Basic developmental factors and application of wing sails are described. In addition, influential parameters and their relations are discussed. These parameters are connected to the physical and mechanical properties of wing sails and their impact on propulsion. It is important to recognize certain contributions of every influential parameter in relation to the final achievement. Parameters are ranked and described for several common types of sails, to find the best solution. Changing values of the influencing parameters on wing sails can significantly increase converted wind energy. The aim of this study was to note the parameters that influence the wing sail to drive ships more efficiently. Their importance is explained in an example based on the two most important sail types. This article evaluates the main parameters for a pointed semi-rigid wing with additional circulation for hybrid propulsion. All further research should be focused on this wing. Finally, guidelines for structural and operational changes in future wing sails are provided, which may assist developers in directing their efforts to discover a better solution for ship propulsion.