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Power is attained when the wind strikes the sails from the side (from upwind) much like a sailboat on a starboard or
port tac. Wind pours in through the gap in the two downwind sails to the third sail set on the downwind side
of the completed sail/turbine. Power is also achieved just after the jibe condition and when the sail is billowed --
similar to a sail in a 90 degree position to the hull on a sailboat headed downwind. On the turbine's continued
rotation, the sail achieves a port or starboard tac running position until the sail luffs in the upwind condition. This is
the only position in which the turbine's sails are not powered.
Six Sails can be used in higher wind areas to speed up the jibe process. "Jibing" happens when the wind hits the
sail from the trailing edge of each sail. This process can be swift and powerful as any sailor can attest. In fact, when
a change of tac is directed by the captain, a boat will most always head into the wind to make its turn to avoid accidental
jibing and possible injury to the crew, as the boom swings swiftly and with great power. In this instance, we capture the
power of the jibe for quick response to changing wind direction or turbulance. It is a controlled jibe, within design parameters,
and is generally safe as the area inside the outer radius of the turbine is "off limits" to wind system technicians unless
the booms are secured.
In the depiction above, the system is shown atop a concrete and rebar reinforced mounting structure. However, the system
can also be mounted atop a four legged welded 'structural steel tower and platform.' The depiction shows a wind generator
at close to ground level, which is possible on level or ubobstructed terrain. In most installations, it will be necessary
or desireable to elevate the turbine above obstructions for maximum efficiency. When so mounted, a service platform can be
added just below the turbine and its component parts to enable easy service access.
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