Abstract: A Savonius vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) rotor is easily and simply constructed while having enhanced functionality. The rotor includes a shaft that is vertical in use, a number (desirably at least four) of vane support hubs each having a number (desirably three) of at least partially curved spokes extending radially outwardly, and a number of vanes corresponding to the number of spokes. The vane support hubs are operatively connected directly to the shaft and spaced vertically from each other along the shaft to provide a plurality of sets of vertically spaced spokes. The vanes, one for each set of spokes, are operatively connected to the spokes to provide surface area for engaging wind and rotating the shaft when in use. Desirably the vane support hubs are operatively connected to the shaft using mechanical fasteners, and the vanes are connected to the spokes using mechanical fasteners. Structural end caps are not necessary, and therefore the rotor is devoid of them.

Abstract: A vertically collapsible vertical axis wind turbine may be used on land, or on a watercraft (e.g. a multihull such as a catamaran). The turbine may include a substantially vertical shaft; at least two vane supports mounted by the shaft; and at least two vertically collapsible material vanes supported by the vane supports, so that the vanes are movable from a first operative position in which the vane material is substantially taut, to a second inoperative position in which the vane material collapses. The vane supports are positioned, and the vanes are constructed, so that the wind turbine preferably has a Savonius or an open helix configuration. When used on multihull watercraft a propulsion mechanism is mounted between two of the hulls, and there is an operative connection between the wind turbine shaft and the propulsion mechanism. The operative connection may be a flexible shaft having at least about a 70 (e.g. about 90) degree bend therein.

Abstract: A buoyant metal cylinder one end of which is domed, the other end of which tapers towards the longitudinal axis of the cylinder and has a fish hook extending therefrom surrounded by a skirt or feather cluster. Eyelets are provided in the center of the dome and on the cylinder wall between the center of the cylinder and the dome. The buoyancy of the fishing lure is adjusted by the addition of weights to the interior of the cylinder.