Apparatus and system for supplying air and vessel

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for supplying air from an air supply to an air release unit arranged on a hull of a marine vessel. The apparatus comprises a network of pipes comprising two branches for fluidly coupling the air supply to the air release unit, a variable flow restrictor arranged in each branch, and a controller configured to adjust the flow restriction of the variable flow restrictors based on an air flow parameter of the apparatus. The air flow parameter can be a target air flow rate or a measured air flow rate. The present disclosure also relates to a marine vessel and a system for supplying air to two air release units arranged on a hull of a marine vessel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an apparatus for supplying air. More specifically, this disclosure relates to an apparatus for supplying air from an air supply unit to at least two air release units, a system for supplying air to two air release units, a ship, a method for modifying the pressure loss of a piping network of an air lubrication system passing through a ship, a method for calibrating the position of a flow limiter of a variable flow limiter, and a method for installing a system for supplying air to two air release units. Background Technology

[0002] Most of the world's international trade relies on large-capacity cargo ships, such as large ocean-going tankers, freighters, bulk carriers, container ships, or other cargo vessels. These ships travel solely between oceans to transport goods between countries and continents. Similarly, ocean-going passenger ships, such as cruise ships and ocean liners, carry passengers across oceans or seas for tourism or transportation purposes. Such ocean-going vessels have large carrying capacities and weights. For example, these ships may have a displacement of 50,000 tons or more. Smaller vessels may be suitable for inland use to carry cargo or passengers.

[0003] The shipping industry is crucial for maintaining international supply chains. However, it also bears significant responsibility for carbon emissions. Reducing shipping carbon emissions would be beneficial, for example, by improving ship efficiency.

[0004] In recent years, air lubrication technology has enabled improvements in ship fuel efficiency, and consequently, reductions in ship emissions. When a ship travels through water, air lubrication lubricates the hull by creating an air layer between the hull and the water, thereby reducing frictional resistance between the hull and the water. An example air lubrication system is described in EP3969358, filed in the name of the current applicant. For example, air lubrication can be achieved by injecting air at hydrostatic pressure into at least one opening located on the surface of the ship's hull, creating a substantially flat water-air interface at the opening of the opening. Kelvin-Helmholtz mixing at the water-air interface results in the release of a stream of air bubbles from the rear of the cavity. This stream of air bubbles from all cavities forms a lubricating bubble blanket, reducing frictional resistance between the hull and the water. It has been found that such cavities are stable and efficient, and sufficiently reduce frictional resistance to exceed the energy required to inject pressurized air into the cavity. These air lubrication systems have been found to reduce ship fuel consumption by up to 10%.

[0005] To ensure continuous bubble release, the hydrostatic pressure within each chamber creates a substantially flat water-air interface at the chamber opening. However, these chambers are distributed across the width of the ship. Therefore, ship motion—particularly pitch, trim, roll, and heel—can cause pressure imbalances between the chambers. These imbalances can lead to uneven airflow distribution between chambers, affecting the consistency and characteristics of the bubbles released. It would be advantageous to provide a system or method that addresses these drawbacks and compensates for pressure imbalances between chambers across the ship's width. Utility Model Content

[0006] According to a first aspect, an apparatus is provided for supplying air from an air supply unit to two air release units disposed on the hull of a vessel. The apparatus includes: a duct network comprising two branches; a variable flow limiter disposed in each branch; and a controller configured to adjust the flow limit of the variable flow limiter according to airflow parameters of the apparatus. Each branch is adapted to fluidly connect the air supply unit to a corresponding air release unit of the two air release units. The airflow parameters may be parameters indicating airflow rate. The airflow parameters may indicate the airflow in the duct network.

[0007] In some implementations, the device may include two or more air release units (e.g., at least four air release units, or any other number of air release units described herein), in which case the piping network may include a corresponding number of branches in which a variable flow limiter is provided. Each of the corresponding number of branches may be used to fluidly connect the air supply to one of the corresponding air release units among the two or more air release units.

[0008] In some implementations, the controller can be configured to provide a larger flow limit when the airflow parameters are low, and a smaller flow limit when the airflow parameters are high. Therefore, at lower airflow rates, a higher limit can reduce airflow redistribution between branches. Conversely, at higher airflow rates, a lower limit can improve efficiency by reducing the average pressure loss on each branch, while also maintaining lower airflow redistribution due to the higher airflow rates.

[0009] In some implementations, the controller can be configured to maintain the same flow limit for each variable flow limiter. Therefore, the lifespan of the variable flow limiters can be increased.

[0010] In some implementations, the airflow parameters may include measured airflow rates within the duct network. In some implementations, flow meters may be configured to measure the airflow rates within the duct network. For example, flow meters may be located in a common duct adapted (e.g., configured to) fluidly connect an air supply unit to each of two branches. When the airflow parameters include measured airflow rates, the delivered airflow rates can be monitored, thus improving the accuracy of the variable flow limiter.

[0011] In some implementations, the airflow parameters may include a target airflow rate. The target airflow rate may be a requested airflow rate from the air supply. The controller may be configured to transmit the target airflow rate to the air supply. The controller may be configured to receive the target airflow rate from the air supply. The target airflow rate may be positively correlated with the ship's speed and / or draft. The target airflow rate may be determined based on the conditions of the air release unit. In some implementations, the controller may be configured to receive one or more of ship speed data, ship draft data, and / or air release unit condition data, and set the target airflow rate based on one or more of these data. When the airflow parameters include a target airflow rate, flow limiter position feedback due to undesirable transient effects can be avoided.

[0012] In some implementations, the controller can be configured to adjust the flow limit in each variable flow limiter across multiple discrete flow limit levels based on airflow parameters. Therefore, the lifespan of the variable flow limiter can be increased. Each discrete flow limit level can correspond to a range of airflow parameter values.

[0013] In some implementations, discrete flow restriction levels can correspond to corresponding flow limiter positions. Therefore, the controller can be configured to calibrate a first flow limiter position for a first variable flow limiter of two variable flow limiters, the first flow limiter position being for a first flow restriction level of the discrete flow restriction levels, the calibration being performed by: positioning the first variable flow limiter at an initial flow limiter position; measuring a first pressure loss on the first variable flow limiter; if the first pressure loss is outside a threshold range of a target pressure loss for the first flow restriction level, positioning the first variable flow limiter at a tuned flow limiter position; measuring a second pressure loss on the first variable flow limiter; and if the second pressure loss is within the threshold range, calibrating the first flow limiter position based on the tuned flow limiter position. A differential pressure gauge can be located in the first branch of the two branches and configured to measure the pressure loss on the first variable flow limiter located in the first branch.

[0014] In some implementations, the variable flow limiter may include one or more of an actuable valve, a butterfly valve, a flow damper, and / or an adjustable orifice plate.

[0015] According to a second aspect, a system is provided for supplying air to two air release units disposed on the hull of a vessel. The system includes the device according to the first aspect and an air supply unit fluidly connected to a duct network of the device. The air supply unit may include the vessel's engine. The duct network may be configured to purge air from the engine. The air supply unit may include a compressor configured to discharge air into the duct network.

[0016] According to a third aspect, a vessel is provided. The vessel includes: a hull; two air release units disposed on the hull; and a system according to the second aspect for supplying air.

[0017] According to a fourth aspect, a method is provided for modifying the pressure loss on a piping network of a ship's air lubrication system. The air lubrication system includes a piping network disposed on the ship's hull, an air supply, and two air release units. The piping network fluidly connects the air supply to the two air release units and includes two branches, each branch fluidly connecting the air supply to a corresponding air release unit. A variable flow limiter is provided in each branch. The method includes: receiving airflow parameters of the air lubrication system; and adjusting the flow limit of the variable flow limiter according to the airflow parameters. In some implementations, the method may be performed by a controller of the air lubrication system.

[0018] In some implementations, adjusting the flow limit of a variable flow limiter may include providing a larger flow limit when the airflow parameter is at a lower value, and providing a smaller flow limit when the airflow parameter is at a higher value.

[0019] In some implementations, adjusting the flow limit of a variable flow limiter may include maintaining the same flow limit for each variable flow limiter.

[0020] In some implementations, the method may also include measuring the airflow rate in the duct network. Airflow parameters may include the measured airflow rate. Measuring the airflow rate may include measuring the airflow rate using a flow meter. The flow meter may be installed (e.g., arranged) in a common duct. The common duct may be adapted to fluidly connect the air supply to each of the two branches.

[0021] In some implementations, the airflow parameter may include a target airflow rate. The target airflow rate is a requested airflow rate from the air supplier. The method may also include requesting the air supplier to supply air to the duct network at the target airflow rate or receiving the target airflow rate from the air supplier. The target airflow rate may be positively correlated with the ship's speed and / or draft. The target airflow rate may also be determined based on the conditions of the air release unit.

[0022] In some implementations, the method may further include: receiving one or more of ship speed data, ship draft data, and / or air release unit condition data, and setting a target airflow rate based on one or more of the ship speed data, ship draft data, and / or air release unit condition data.

[0023] In some implementations, adjusting the flow limit of a variable flow limiter may include adjusting the flow limit of the variable flow limiter among multiple discrete flow limit levels based on airflow parameters. Each discrete flow limit level may correspond to a range of airflow parameter values.

[0024] According to a fifth aspect, a method is provided for calibrating the position of a first flow limiter of a first variable flow limiter in a first branch of a piping network of an air lubrication system of a ship. The air lubrication system includes a piping network disposed on the hull of the ship, an air supply, and two air release units. The piping network fluidly connects the air supply to the two air release units and includes two branches, each branch fluidly connecting the air supply to a corresponding air release unit. A variable flow limiter is disposed in each branch. The first flow limiter position is used for a first flow limit level of the first variable flow limiter. The method includes: positioning the first variable flow limiter at an initial flow limiter position; measuring a first pressure loss on the first variable flow limiter; if the first pressure loss is outside a threshold range of a target pressure loss at the first flow limit level, positioning the first variable flow limiter at a tuned flow limiter position; measuring a second pressure loss on the first variable flow limiter; if the second pressure loss is within a threshold range, calibrating the first flow limiter position according to the tuned flow limiter position.

[0025] In some implementations, the first flow limit level has multiple discrete flow limit levels.

[0026] In some implementations, a differential pressure gauge located in the first branch can be used to measure the first pressure loss and the second pressure loss in order to measure the pressure loss on the first variable flow limiter.

[0027] According to the sixth aspect, a method for installing the system according to the second aspect is provided. The method includes assembling a variable flow limiter into each branch of a piping network. The method may include routing the piping network between an air supply unit and two air release units such that each branch of the piping network fluidly connects the air supply unit to a corresponding air release unit of the two air release units. The method may also include mounting the two air release units on the hull of a vessel. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Specific exemplary embodiments of this disclosure are described below in a detailed description by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1A An exemplary vessel including an air lubrication system is shown; Figure 1B An exemplary distribution of air release units on the underside of a ship's hull is shown; Figure 2 An exemplary cavity-type air release unit is shown; Figure 3 An exemplary device is shown for supplying air from an air supply unit to an air release unit; Figure 4 An improved exemplary device is shown for supplying air from an air supply unit to an air release unit; Figure 5 A method for controlling pressure loss on pipeline networks is shown; Figure 6 A method for calibrating the position of the first flow limiter is shown; Figure 7 A method for installing an air lubrication system on a ship is shown; and Figure 8 This illustrates one implementation of a computing device.

[0029] Throughout the accompanying drawings, similar reference numerals are used for similar parts. Detailed Implementation

[0030] In general, but not limited to, this disclosure relates to an apparatus for supplying air from an air supply unit to at least two air release units of an air lubrication system of a ship. The apparatus includes a piping network having branches fluidly connecting the air supply unit to each corresponding air release unit. Each branch includes a variable flow limiter capable of selectively adjusting between variable restriction levels. Thus, the respective variable flow limiter can change the restriction level and the flow resistance of each branch in the piping network. For example, the variable flow limiter may be an actuable valve, a butterfly valve, an airflow damper, and / or an adjustable orifice plate.

[0031] The device also includes a controller configured to adjust the flow limit of the variable flow limiter based on the device's airflow parameters. Airflow parameters are parameters representing airflow rates. Airflow parameters reflect the airflow conditions within a duct network. For example, an airflow parameter can be a measured airflow rate within the duct network. Alternatively, an airflow parameter can be a target airflow rate required by the air supply units of the duct network. In summary, airflow parameters are parameters that represent or approximate the airflow rate or expected airflow rate of the entire duct network. As used herein, airflow rate can be a mass airflow rate (i.e., airflow rate by mass).

[0032] By adjusting the flow limit of the variable flow limiter according to the airflow parameters, the amount of airflow redistribution between the branches of the pipeline network can be minimized. This redistribution is intended to compensate for dynamic pressure imbalances between branches caused by ship motion—particularly pitch, trim, roll, and list. Therefore, by controlling the flow limit in each branch, the airflow distribution between branches can be substantially balanced, even during ship pitch, trim, roll, and list.

[0033] For example, when airflow parameter values ​​are low—indicating a low airflow rate—the variable flow limiter can be set at a more restrictive position (i.e., a position providing greater flow restriction), thereby minimizing airflow redistribution caused by hydrostatic pressure changes at the air release unit due to ship motion. Conversely, when airflow parameter values ​​are high—indicating a high airflow rate—the variable flow limiter can be set at a less restrictive position (i.e., a position providing less flow restriction), achieving low airflow redistribution due to hydrostatic pressure changes at the air release unit caused by ship motion, but preventing excessive average pressure loss due to high restriction. For example, as airflow rate increases, the same restriction in the piping network results in greater pressure loss. Therefore, with higher airflow parameter values, when the variable flow limiter is set at a less restrictive position, the pressure differential caused by the flow limiter in the piping network increases. Thus, airflow redistribution caused by hydrostatic pressure changes at the air release unit due to ship motion can still be minimized (e.g., positions where the variable flow limiter provides more restriction are not required).

[0034] In some examples, each variable flow limiter is adjustable between multiple discrete flow limit levels. Accordingly, the controller can be configured to adjust the flow limit in each variable flow limiter between these discrete flow limit levels. Each discrete flow limit level may correspond to a specific range of values ​​for an airflow parameter. For example, the correspondence between discrete flow limit levels and airflow parameters can be stored in a lookup table of the controller. Alternatively, the controller can dynamically calculate or calibrate the correspondence during or before operation.

[0035] The lifespan of a variable flow limiter (e.g., the time between servicing or replacement) is determined by the number of flow limiter cycles between flow limit levels. When the flow limit levels are discrete, the flow limiter cycles between flow limit levels only when transitioning from one discrete level to another. Therefore, adjusting the flow limit in each variable flow limiter between multiple discrete flow limit levels corresponding to airflow parameters increases the lifespan of the variable flow limiter. Consequently, the time required for servicing or replacement of the variable flow limiter—e.g., during docking—is reduced.

[0036] Furthermore, the controller can be configured to maintain the same flow limit for each variable flow limiter. Therefore, the flow limiters in each branch can be adjusted in the same way without the need for additional complexity and flow limiter loops, since the flow limiters are not dynamically adjusted nor part of a complex feedback control loop.

[0037] Overview of Marine and Air Lubrication Systems Figure 1A An exemplary vessel 100 is shown, in which the systems and devices of this disclosure can be implemented. Vessel 100 is any suitable vessel, such as a displacement vessel. For example, vessel 100 may have a displacement of 10,000 tons or more, or 50,000 tons or more. The vessel has a hull 102, which may be a generally flat-bottomed hull or a V-shaped profile hull. In some examples, hull 102 has a length of, for example, at least 50 meters or at least 100 meters. In some examples, the hull may have a length of less than 400 meters.

[0038] The vessel includes multiple air release units 200 and a system 104 for supplying air to the air release units 200. The air release units may be located on the hull 102 of the vessel (e.g., within or at the hull 102). System 104 may be referred to as an air lubrication system. The system 104 for supplying air includes corresponding devices 120 and air supply units 106.

[0039] This document describes in more detail an exemplary implementation of device 120, particularly with reference to Figure 3 and Figure 4 In general, device 120 includes a piping network 122 adapted to fluidly connect air supply 106 to each air release unit 200. To fluidly connect air supply 106 to each air release unit 200, piping network 122 includes multiple branches, each branch connecting an air supply to one or more of the multiple air release units. The individual branches are connected in parallel throughout piping network 122. Therefore, the number of branches can be equal to or less than the number of air release units. Device 120 may also include a common conduit 124 for fluidly connecting an air supply to each of the two branches. For example, common conduit 124 may be connected in series to fluidly connect the air supply to each branch. Therefore, common conduit 124 may be connected in series between the air supply and at least some or all of the branches. Device 120 also includes a controller 126. Controller 126 is configured to control the devices and systems described herein. For example, as described in more detail herein, particularly regarding… Figure 3 and Figure 4 The controller 126 may be configured to control the engine, air supply 106 and / or flow meters and / or variable flow limiters of the vessel 100 located in the piping network 122, and / or communicate with the engine, air supply 106 and / or flow meters and / or variable flow limiters of the vessel 100 located in the piping network 122.

[0040] Air supply unit 106 can take any form suitable for supplying air to duct network 122 at any pressure suitable for outputting air from air release unit 200. For example, air supply unit 106 may include a compressor configured to discharge air into duct network 122. The compressor is configured to draw in air, such as atmospheric air, compress the air, and discharge the compressed air into duct network 122. Alternatively, air supply unit 106 may be located within the engine of vessel 100. For example, air supply unit 106 may be configured to scavenge air from an engine (e.g., a main engine). In these examples, compressed and pressurized air may be held in a holding chamber of the engine. Thus, the air supply unit may be configured to scavenge air from the engine by selectively drawing pressurized air from the holding chamber and discharging the pressurized air into duct network 122.

[0041] Figure 1BAn exemplary distribution of air release units 200 on the bottom surface of the hull 102 of a vessel 100 is shown. As illustrated, multiple air release units 200 can be distributed along the width of the hull. For example, multiple air release units 200 can be distributed in a V-shape around the centerline 108 of the hull 102 in the forward half of the vessel 100. When distributed in a V-shape, the air release units 200 are arranged to gradually move away from the centerline 110 of the bow of the hull in a rearward direction. In this configuration, the forward air release units 200 are the air release units closest to or substantially located at the centerline 108. However, in other examples, multiple air release units 200 can be distributed in any other suitable configuration, such as a W-shape, a U-shape, or any other regular or irregular form.

[0042] Figure 1B The image depicts 12 air release units 200. However, in other examples, virtually any number of air release units 200 can be provided on the hull of the vessel 100. For example, up to 24 air release units 200 can be provided on the hull 102 of the vessel 100. Similarly, any even number of air release units 200 can be provided on the hull of the vessel 100, for example, any even number of air release units not exceeding and including 24. For example, at least 2, at least 4, at least 8, at least 12, at least 14, at least 16, at least 18, at least 20, at least 22, or at least 24 air release units 200 can be provided on the hull. Preferably, 24 or at most 48 air release units 200 are provided on the hull 102. Alternatively, any odd number of air release units 200 can be provided on the hull 102, in which case the foremost air release unit 200 can be located on the centerline 108. In some examples, the air release units can be arranged from the bow 110 along a length of up to 40% of the hull.

[0043] Regardless of the number of air release units 200 disposed on the hull of vessel 100, some or all of the air release units 200 may be supplied by the same air supply 106 and / or via device 120. For example, device 120 may be adapted to supply air from air supply 106 to two air release units 200 disposed on the hull 102 of vessel 100. In this case, the duct network 122 of device 120 may include two branches, each branch for fluidly connecting the air supply to the corresponding air release unit 200. Alternatively, device 120 may be adapted to supply air from air supply 106 to any number of air release units 200 disposed on hull 102, for example, up to and including any even number of air release units 200 of 24, as further described herein. In these examples, the duct network 122 of device 120 may include multiple branches corresponding to (e.g., equal to) the number of air release units supplied by device 120. In some examples, the air supply 106 can supply air to multiple devices, each of which supplies air from the air supply 106 to a subset of the air release units 200 disposed on the hull 102.

[0044] As the vessel 100 travels through water, air is released from the air release unit 200, forming an air layer 112 between the hull 102 and the water. This air layer lubricates the hull 102 to protect it from the effects of water, thereby reducing frictional resistance between the hull and the water. Therefore, the air release unit 200 can include any device suitable for releasing or venting air, such as a nozzle, outlet, diffuser, orifice, or cavity, for releasing or venting air between the vessel's hull 102 and the water. Thus, the air inlet or outlet of a corresponding nozzle, outlet, diffuser, orifice, or cavity can be fluidly connected to a corresponding branch of the piping network 122 described herein. As an example, Figure 2 An exemplary air release unit 200 is shown. Figure 2 The air release unit 200 is also referred to herein as cavity 200. Therefore, the term "cavity" as used herein, when not specifically and solely referring to... Figure 2 When referring to examples, the term "air release unit" can be used interchangeably with the general term "air release unit".

[0045] Figure 2Cavity 200 can be constructed as a complete module that can be fitted to the bottom of hull 102 of vessel 100. For example, the cavity can be substantially as described in EP3969358 filed in the name of the current applicant, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The cavity is defined by sidewalls 202a, 202b and top wall 204. As shown, sidewalls 202a, 202b may meet at a point at the front end 206 of cavity 200. For example, the front end 206 of the cavity may include a dagger-shaped nose portion. At least a portion of sidewalls 202a, 202b may be offset from each other as they extend from the front end 206 to the rear end 208. A downwardly sloping rear wall portion 210 extends from top wall 204 to the rear end 208 of the cavity, as shown. In some examples, sidewalls 202a, 202b may be supported on flange 214 by their lower edges. Flange 214 can be welded to the hull 102 of the vessel 100. Therefore, when welded to the hull, sidewalls 202a, 202b define openings that are substantially flush with the surface of the vessel. Thus, in operation, the openings are substantially flush with the water, thereby forming an air-water interface there.

[0046] As shown in the figure, an air inlet 212 can be provided in the top wall 204 of the cavity 200. The air inlet 212 is configured to discharge pressurized air into the cavity. Therefore, the air inlet 212 can be fluidly connected to the piping network 122, which is described herein separately. In particular, the air inlet 212 can be fluidly connected to a corresponding branch of the piping network 122. In this way, via the piping network 122, the air inlet 212 can provide an outlet for fluid connection between the air supply 106 and the cavity 200.

[0047] In use, the opening of cavity 200 forms a generally smooth air-water interface plane, where Kelvin-Helmholtz mixing occurs at the water-air interface. This Kelvin-Helmholtz mixing results in the generation of bubbles at the air-water interface, which then travel from cavity 200 to the downstream portion of hull 102 of the vessel 100. Specifically, the downwardly sloping aft wall portion 210 is configured to guide air and water within the cavity to the downstream portion of hull 102 in a smooth flow pattern. As the bubbles travel from cavity 200 to the downstream portion of hull 102, a continuous bubble blanket is formed on hull 102 between hull 102 and water, thereby reducing frictional resistance between the vessel's hull and the water. In some examples, it has been found that reducing this frictional resistance can reduce vessel fuel consumption by at least 10%.

[0048] Device for supplying air to an air release unit Figure 3 A device for supplying air from air supply unit 106 to a location such as... Figure 1AA schematic diagram of an exemplary device 300 comprising multiple air release units 200a, 200b on the hull of a vessel 100. Device 300 may be, as described herein, a device for... Figure 1A and Figure 1B An exemplary implementation of the described device 120. Thus, the device 300 may be adapted to supply air from the air supply 106 to two air release units 200a, 200b, and may include a duct network 302 having two branches 304a, 304b, each branch fluidly connecting the air supply 106 to the corresponding air release unit 200a, 200b.

[0049] The piping network 302 of device 300 can be designed to compensate for the static airflow difference between the corresponding fluid paths from air supply 106 and each air release unit 200a, 200b. The airflow difference refers, for example, the difference in airflow distribution on the first branch 304a compared to the second branch 304b. The static airflow difference is independent of ship motion and may arise from differences in the corresponding pressure loss coefficients on each branch. Each branch may have different loss coefficients due to variations in branch length, the number of bends in the branch, the sharpness of the bends in the branch, and / or the number of pipe components in the branch.

[0050] Since each branch connects to the same air supply unit, the pressure loss on each branch is substantially equal. Therefore, if the pressure loss coefficient on the first branch 304a is substantially higher than that on the second branch 304b, the airflow is unevenly distributed between branches 304a and 304b, resulting in a lower velocity of air exiting from the first branch 304a than from the second branch 304b. Consequently, the performance and stability of the lubricating air layer differ between each air release unit 200a and 200b.

[0051] Figure 3 The illustrated duct network 302 is designed to compensate for static airflow differences between the air supply unit 106 and the air release units 200a, 200b, thereby minimizing differences in the performance and stability of the air lubrication layer between the different air release units 200a, 200b. For example, each branch 304a, 304b of the duct network may include fixed restrictors 306a, 306b, which are adapted and configured to introduce restrictions within each branch 304a, 304b. These restrictions are designed to minimize the proportional differences in pressure loss coefficients between the air supply unit 106 and the corresponding air release unit 200a, 200b of each branch 304a, 304b. For example, as Figure 3As shown, each branch 304a, 304b may include any suitable number or type of fixed limiters 306a, 306b for introducing a limit, such that the pressure loss coefficient difference on each branch 304a, 304b is within a threshold value. Figure 3 As shown, the fixed limiters 306a and 306b can comprise any suitable combination of piping components, such as reducers, limiters, check valves, and / or two-way valves (e.g., gate valves). Furthermore, the distance and / or number of bends in each branch 306a and 306b can be varied to introduce the desired restriction. Additionally, as... Figure 3 The illustrated device 300 may include additional fixed limiting devices, such as orifice plates 308a and 308b, in some branches 304a and 304b to reduce the pressure loss coefficient difference in the less restricted branches 304a and 304b. Therefore, orifice plates 308a and 308b can help offset static airflow differences and balance the airflow distribution between air release units 200a and 200b.

[0052] Although Figure 3 The arrangement can correct some airflow imbalances, but the inventors have determined that this arrangement is not suitable for all situations and has certain drawbacks. In particular, Figure 3 The equipment 300 may not be suitable for compensating for dynamic pressure imbalance between air release units 200a and 200b. Dynamic pressure imbalance refers to the imbalance of hydrostatic pressure between branches caused by ship motion, such as pitch, trim, roll, and list.

[0053] For example, such as Figure 1B As described, air release units 200 can be distributed across the width and / or length of the hull 102. The longitudinal distance between any two air release units is related to the amount of dynamic pressure imbalance caused by the ship's pitch or trim between the corresponding connected branches. Similarly, the lateral distance between any two air release units is related to the dynamic pressure imbalance caused by the ship's roll and heel between the corresponding connected branches. As used herein, the longitudinal distance is along the length of the hull, and the lateral distance is perpendicular to the longitudinal distance and along the width of the hull. Due to dynamic pressure imbalances, ship motion can cause uneven airflow distribution among the air release units distributed around the hull. Therefore, when the dynamic pressure imbalance is significant, Figure 3 The equipment 300 may not be suitable for supplying air from the air supply unit 106 to a number of air release units 200 arranged at the far ends of the hull along its length and / or width. Therefore, Figure 3 The device 300 may not be suitable for supplying air from the air supply unit 106 to two or more than four air release units 200. Instead, Figure 3The device 300 may only be suitable for supplying air from the air supply unit 106 to air release units 200 that are close to each other, for example, only to adjacent air release units 200.

[0054] Figure 4 A schematic diagram is shown of an improved device 400 for supplying air from an air supply unit 106 to a plurality of air release units 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d. The air release units 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d can be installed on ships, for example... Figure 1A 100 ships in the country. (e.g.) Figure 4 As shown, device 400 includes a piping network 402, which includes multiple branches 404a, 404b, 404c, 404d, ..., 404n. As shown, piping network 402 may include at least four branches. However, as referenced... Figure 1A and Figure 1B The described piping network may include multiple branches, the number of which corresponds to the number of air release units supplied by device 400. For example, the number of branches may be equal to the number of air release units. Alternatively, the number of branches may be less than the number of air release units, in which case one or more branches may be configured to fluidly connect air supply 106 to multiple air release units. In any example, the piping network may include any number of branches not exceeding and including 24 branches, such as at least 2, at least 4, at least 8, at least 12, at least 14, at least 16, at least 18, at least 20, at least 22, or at least 24 branches.

[0055] like Figure 4 As shown, each branch of the duct network 402 may include any fixed restrictors 406a, 406b, 406c, 406d, which are adapted to minimize the static airflow difference between the corresponding air release units 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d of each branch 404a, 404b, 404c, 404d. Each of the fixed restrictors 406a, 406b, 406c, 406d can be referenced. Figure 3 Fixed limiters 306a and 306b are described herein. In the device 400 according to this disclosure, fixed limiters 406a, 406b, 406c, and 406d are optional and not necessarily provided. In some examples, the fixed limiters may be provided by the piping network 402 itself.

[0056] Figure 4 Equipment 400 and Figure 3 The difference between device 300 and other equipment is that... Figure 4 The equipment includes variable flow limiters 408a, 408b, 408c, and 408d disposed in at least a subset of branches 404a, 404b, 404c, and 404d. In some examples, variable flow limiters 408a, 408b, 408c, and 408d are disposed in each branch 404a, 404b, 404c, and 408d of the equipment 400. Each variable flow limiter can be selectively adjusted to change the amount of restriction in the corresponding branch. For example, the variable flow limiter can be selectively adjusted or actuated to adjust the airflow resistance in each corresponding branch of the duct network 402.

[0057] For example, a variable flow limiter can be an actuated valve, a butterfly valve, a flow damper, and / or an adjustable orifice plate. An actuated valve can be actuated between different positions to provide different limiting amounts. A butterfly valve is an example of an actuated valve. A butterfly valve can regulate the flow rate of fluid passing through it by, for example, selectively rotating a disc in its opening. The relative orientation of the disc and the opening determines the limiting amount provided by the butterfly valve. A flow damper controls the flow rate passing through it by adjusting the amount of free space in the opening of the flow damper. An adjustable orifice plate can be an example of a flow damper. For example, an adjustable orifice plate can include an actuated ring that can be closed to adjust the amount of free space in the opening of the actuated ring. For example, an adjustable orifice plate can include an iris damper, which includes an iris-shaped shutter mechanism.

[0058] like Figure 4 As shown, device 400 may also include controller 126. Controller 126 can be referenced... Figure 1A The following description is provided. Furthermore, controller 126 can be configured to adjust the flow limits of variable flow limiters 408a, 408b, 408c, and 408d. Accordingly, controller 126 can be configured to communicate with variable flow limiters 408a, 408b, 408c, and 408d. For example, controller 126 may include a transmitter configured to wirelessly transmit signals, and each variable flow limiter 408a, 408b, 408c, and 408d may include a cooperative receiver configured to receive signals from the transmitter. Alternatively, controller 126 may communicate with variable flow limiters 408a, 408b, 408c, and 408d via a wired communication channel or fiber optic cable local to device 400 and / or the vessel. Example wired communication channels may form a local area network (LAN), for example, via Ethernet cable or copper wire.

[0059] The controller can be configured to instruct one or more actuators coupled to one or more variable flow limiters to adjust the flow limit of the variable flow limiter. In these examples, the controller can be configured to adjust the flow limit of the variable flow limiter based on the airflow parameters of the device. The airflow parameters can be a measured airflow rate in duct network 412 or a target airflow rate required by air supply 106. In either implementation, the airflow parameters indicate (e.g., approximate) the airflow rate (e.g., mass airflow rate) in duct network 402. When the airflow parameter is a measured airflow rate, the airflow parameter directly represents the airflow rate in duct network 402. When the airflow parameter is a target airflow rate required by air supply 106, the airflow parameter represents the expected airflow rate in duct network 402.

[0060] Therefore, the device 400 of this disclosure can compensate for dynamic pressure imbalances by selectively adjusting the flow limits in each branch 404a, 404b, 404c, 404d of the device 400, such that the pressure difference induced by the selected flow limit in each branch (i.e., the pressure difference from the air supply unit 106 to the air release units 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d) is greater than the dynamic pressure imbalance between branches caused by ship motion. For example, the flow limit in each variable flow limiter can be selected to induce a pressure difference in all branches that is larger than the magnitude of the dynamic pressure imbalance between any two branches (e.g., above a set threshold or higher). Therefore, the effect of dynamic pressure imbalance on airflow redistribution can be neglected (e.g., below a set tolerance or threshold). The flow limit in each branch can be composed of the sum of the selected flow limits of the fixed limiters 406a, 406b, 406c, 406d of each pipe and the corresponding variable flow limiters 408a, 408b, 408c, 408d.

[0061] In some examples, the airflow rate in the piping network 402 can vary depending on the operation of the vessel on which the device 400 is installed. At higher vessel speeds, airflow parameters (e.g., target airflow rate or measured airflow rate) may increase. Similarly, at higher vessel drafts, airflow parameters (e.g., target airflow rate or measured airflow rate) may also increase. However, at specific limit levels, the pressure differential across the flow limiter varies depending on the airflow rate in the piping network. Therefore, by adjusting the flow limit of the variable flow limiter based on the device's airflow parameters, the controller 126 of this disclosure can mitigate dynamic pressure imbalances under various vessel operating conditions, such as vessel speed and / or draft, while preventing excessive average pressure loss in branches due to high fixed limits at high airflow rates.

[0062] For example, studies have found that as the airflow rate in the duct network 402 increases, the differential pressure caused by constraints in the duct network 402—such as fixed limiters 406a, 406b, 406c, 406d or the duct network 402 itself—also increases. Accordingly, by adjusting the flow limits of the variable flow limiters 408a, 408b, 408c, 404d, providing a larger flow limit when the airflow parameters are low, and conversely providing a smaller flow limit when the airflow parameters are high, the airflow distribution among each branch 404a, 404b, 404c, 404d, 404n of the device 400 can be maintained within a certain range (e.g., representing a range of acceptable airflow distribution balance or a threshold range of airflow distribution balance). As used herein, a larger flow limit is greater than a smaller flow limit.

[0063] In some examples, the controller can be configured to maintain the same flow restriction in each of the variable flow limiters 408a, 408b, 408c, 408d. That is, each of the variable flow limiters 408a, 408b, 408c, 408d in each branch is uniformly adjusted such that the same restriction is applied to each branch simultaneously. Therefore, it is not necessary to directly measure the local airflow difference and velocity. Instead, flow rate measurement can be performed, for example, at the common duct 424 before the branch splits. Therefore, Figure 4 The controller 126 of the equipment 400 does not need to implement complex feedback control loops (e.g., from a PID controller) to dynamically and individually control the variable flow limiters 408a, 408b, 408c, and 408d in each branch 404a, 404b, 404c, and 404d, since the flow limit in each branch is variable. Instead, the controller can more simply adjust the flow limit on the equipment 400 based on airflow parameters of the entire piping network 402, such as airflow parameters indicating the total flow rate through all branches 404a, 404b, 404c, and 404d. Furthermore, by avoiding complex feedback control loops, the number of variable flow limiter cycles experienced during normal operation can be reduced, thereby increasing the lifespan of the variable flow limiters and reducing the intervals between berthing and maintenance of the vessel with the equipment 400 installed.

[0064] In some examples, the controller can be configured to adjust the flow limit in each variable flow limiter across multiple discrete flow limit levels based on airflow parameters. Each discrete flow limit level represents a step change in the flow limit. The flow limit can be adjusted similarly for each sequential flow limit level. For example, the flow limit can vary linearly for each sequential flow limit level. Alternatively, the flow limit can vary non-linearly. The multiple discrete flow limit levels can be set by the discrete positions that the variable flow limiter can take. Alternatively, the multiple discrete flow limit levels can be discrete positions on a continuous spectrum of flow limit levels at the variable flow limiter. Therefore, the controller can be configured to indicate the flow limit to discrete positions by instructing the variable flow limiter to take specific discrete positions, or by instructing the variable flow limiter to take discrete values ​​on a continuous spectrum of flow limit levels.

[0065] Each discrete flow restriction level can correspond to a predetermined range of airflow parameter values. Therefore, each discrete flow restriction level can correspond to an (indicated) range of airflow rates in the duct network 402. Corresponding discrete flow restriction levels to predetermined ranges of airflow parameters involves setting discrete positions for variable flow limiters 408a, 408b, 408c, 408d for essentially every airflow parameter value. For example, a first range of airflow parameters can correspond to a first flow restriction level, a second range of airflow parameters can correspond to a second flow restriction level, a third range of airflow parameters can correspond to a third flow restriction level, and so on. Each possible airflow parameter value can correspond to no more than one (e.g., only one) discrete flow restriction level.

[0066] The correspondence between discrete flow limit levels and airflow parameters can be predetermined. For example, when installing an air lubrication system on a ship, the correspondence between discrete flow limit levels and airflow parameters can be set. Similarly, during commissioning or testing, such as during the process described herein, the correspondence between discrete flow limit levels and airflow parameters can be set or updated, specifically referring to... Figure 6However, the correspondence between discrete flow limit levels and airflow parameter ranges is determined, and this correspondence can be stored in a lookup table or index accessed by controller 126 or stored in a lookup table or index at controller 126. Accordingly, when adjusting the flow limit in each variable flow limiter among multiple discrete flow limit levels based on airflow parameters, controller 126 can access the lookup table or index and identify the discrete flow limit level corresponding to the current airflow parameters from the lookup table or index. Controller 126 can then instruct each variable flow limiter 408a, 408b, 408c, 408d to adjust to a flow limit position that provides the corresponding discrete flow limit level.

[0067] After a certain number of flow limiter cycles, a variable flow limiter may require servicing or replacement. Therefore, the lifespan of the variable flow limiter and the ability of the device 400 described herein to operate continuously while the vessel is at sea are determined by the number of flow limiter cycles experienced. Adjusting the flow limit in each variable flow limiter among multiple discrete flow limit levels minimizes the number of cycles experienced by the variable flow limiters 408a, 408b, 408c, and 408d during operation. In these examples, the flow limiter cycles between flow limit levels only when transitioning from one discrete level to another—for example, when airflow parameters transition from one predetermined range to another. When the variable flow limiter operates continuously at the same flow limit level, the variable flow limiters 408a, 408b, 408c, and 408d do not perform any cycles. Therefore, adjusting the flow limit in each variable flow limiter among multiple discrete flow limit levels increases the lifespan of the variable flow limiter and shortens the intervals between berthing and servicing of the vessel with device 400 installed. For example, when the airflow parameters remain essentially within a predetermined range (typically during normal operation, such as when a ship is traveling at a steady speed), the variable flow limiters 408a, 408b, 408c, and 408d will not deviate from the discrete values ​​set within the predetermined range during cycling.

[0068] As described herein, airflow parameters may include measured airflow rates. The measured airflow rate is the airflow rate measured within the duct network 402. For example, the airflow rate measured within the duct network 402 may be the total mass airflow rate passing through the duct network 402. Thus, the measured airflow rate can be measured at any point within the duct network 402 suitable for measuring the total mass airflow rate passing through the duct network 402. The measured airflow rate can be measured at any upstream portion of the duct network 402 relative to branches 404a, 404b, 404c, 404d, 404n. Alternatively, the measured airflow rate can be determined by adding the corresponding airflow rates measured in each branch 404a, 404b, 404c, 404d, 404n. The portion of the duct network 402 upstream of branches 404a, 404b, 404c, 404d, 404n is the portion of the total airflow that can pass through the duct network 402 before branching.

[0069] When the airflow parameter is a measured airflow rate, the device 400 of this disclosure can monitor the airflow rate delivered to the duct network 402 (and thus to the air release units 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d). For example, the controller's adjustment of the flow limit of the variable flow limiters 408a, 408b, 408c, 408d can be based on the delivered airflow, thus taking into account variations in the delivered airflow. Therefore, the airflow parameter as a measured airflow rate can effectively increase the accuracy of the limiter position during operation, thereby increasing the consistency of the device 400's operation. When the air supply 106 includes a compressor, the accuracy of the flow limiter position can be improved to handle faults and / or inaccuracies in the airflow delivery from the compressor. Similarly, when the air supply 106 includes a ship's engine, the device 400 described herein can be used to monitor the accuracy of the airflow rate of pressurized air drawn from the engine into the duct network 402.

[0070] Furthermore, by measuring the total mass airflow rate through the duct network 402, the number of flow meters required in device 400 is reduced. That is, no additional flow meters are needed in each branch 404a, 404b, 404c, 404d, 404n. By avoiding the need for additional flow meters in each branch 404a, 404b, 404c, 404d, 404n, the complex feedback control loops of each variable flow limiter 408a, 408b, 408c, 408d are also avoided. As discussed elsewhere herein, the controller can therefore more easily adjust the flow limits on device 400 based on the airflow parameters of the entire duct network 402, and the number of variable flow limiter cycles experienced during normal operation can be reduced.

[0071] When the airflow parameter is the measured airflow rate, the airflow rate can be measured by at least one flow meter. For example, the device may also include at least one flow meter disposed in the duct network 402. The flow meter may be disposed in a common duct 424, which may be as described elsewhere herein. Figure 1A The common duct 124 is described. The common duct is configured to fluidly connect the air supply to each of the branches 404a, 404b, 404c, 404d, and 404n of the device 400. In other examples, the airflow rate can be measured indirectly. For example, the controller 126 can be configured to infer or measure the pressure difference across the duct network 402. In these examples, the controller 126 can also be configured to detect the airflow temperature in the duct network 402, for example, to calculate the air density in the duct network. Therefore, the airflow rate can be measured indirectly based on the measured or inferred pressure difference across the duct network, as well as the airflow temperature and / or air density.

[0072] As described herein, airflow parameters may include a target airflow rate. The target airflow rate is the airflow rate required by the air supply 106. That is, the target airflow rate is the airflow rate required by the air supply 106 to be delivered into the duct network 402. To identify the target airflow rate, the controller 126 may communicate with the air supply 106. For example, the controller may be configured to transmit the target airflow rate to the air supply. In this case, the controller 126 may be configured to receive operating conditions of the vessel and / or air release units 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d, and the controller 126 may be configured to calculate the target airflow rate based on at least some of these operating conditions. In other implementations, the target airflow rate may be calculated independently of the controller 126 (e.g., at a separate processor communicating with the air supply 106), and the target airflow rate may be communicated from the air supply 106 (e.g., from a separate processor communicating with the air supply 106) to the controller 126. In an example where the air supply 106 includes a compressor, the target airflow rate may be set to the airflow output of the compressor. In an example where the air supply 106 includes an engine, the target airflow rate can be set to an airflow output selectively extracted from the engine, for example, from the engine's retaining chamber.

[0073] The target airflow rate may be related to one or more operating conditions of the ship and / or air release units 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d. For example, the airflow requirements of each air release unit 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d—such as the airflow required to achieve a consistent air layer between the hull and the water—may depend on the ship's speed and / or draft. Higher ship speeds and / or deeper drafts may require higher airflow rates at air release units 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d. Therefore, the target airflow rate may be positively correlated with ship speed and / or draft. Thus, the controller 126 or a separate processor communicating with the air supply unit 106 may be configured to receive indications of ship speed and / or draft and calculate the required target airflow rate based on these indications to meet the current airflow requirements of the air release units 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d. Indications of propagation speed and / or ship draft may include ship speed data and draft data, respectively. Alternatively, the required target airflow does not need to be calculated based on the ship's speed, but rather based on one or more conditions of air release units 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d. Such air release unit conditions indicate the current operation of air release units 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d, and thus can indicate whether a larger or smaller airflow is needed at air release units 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d to achieve at least a substantially uniform air layer between the hull and the water. For example, air release unit conditions may include the thickness or uniformity of the air layer between the hull and the water. Similarly, air release unit conditions may include the size of the bubbles released from air release units 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d, or the rate of bubble release. Therefore, a controller 126 or a separate processor communicating with air supply unit 106 can be configured to receive indications of one or more air release unit conditions and calculate the required target airflow rate based on these indications to meet the current airflow requirements of air release unit 200. Indications of one or more air release unit conditions may include air release unit condition data.

[0074] When the airflow parameter is the target airflow rate, rather than, for example, the measured airflow rate, the airflow parameter used to determine the adjustment of the variable flow limiters 408a, 408b, 408c, and 408d can be constant. Therefore, transient and temporary fluctuations in the airflow supplied from the air supply 106 to the duct network 402 will not cause adjustment of the variable flow limiters 408a, 408b, 408c, and 408d. Since temporary fluctuations do not cause adjustment of the variable flow limiters, flow limiter cycles can be further minimized, thereby increasing the lifespan of the equipment 402. Furthermore, adjusting the variable flow limiters 408a, 408b, 408c, and 408d due to transient and temporary fluctuations may create undesirable feedback loops, further increasing the number of flow limiter cycles and reducing the effectiveness of the equipment 400.

[0075] Device 400, and particularly its controller 126, can be configured to calibrate the flow limiter position, for example, by performing the actions described herein. Figure 6 The described method calibrates the flow limiter position. In these examples, device 400 may also include a differential pressure gauge disposed in at least one of branches 404a, 404b, 404c, 404d, and 404n. The differential pressure gauge is configured to measure the pressure loss on one or more variable flow limiters disposed on the respective branch. In some examples, the differential pressure gauge may be installed on only one branch, in which case the flow limiter position can be calibrated based on measurements taken only on that branch. Alternatively, a differential pressure gauge may be disposed in each branch to evaluate the relative performance of one or more variable flow limiters in each branch and / or monitor the health status of the variable flow limiters.

[0076] Methods for modifying pressure loss Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating an example method for controlling (e.g., modifying) pressure losses on a piping network of a ship's air lubrication system is shown. The piping network and air lubrication system are described elsewhere herein, with particular reference to... Figures 1A to 4 Any of the diagrams described in the reference. For example, a piping network can be included in a device such as a reference. Figure 4 The device described is 400. Figure 5 At least a portion of the method shown can be executed by a controller, which is, for example, a reference... Figure 4 The controller 126 of the described device 400. Any steps of the method can be referred to Figures 1A to 4 Any of the figures in the diagram can be described in more detail.

[0077] The method may optionally begin at step S100, where a target airflow rate is received. The target airflow rate may be received by the device's controller. The target airflow rate refers to the required airflow rate delivered by the air supply to the duct network. Receiving the target airflow rate may include calculating the target airflow rate based on the airflow requirements of one or more air release units. The airflow requirements of the air release units may be calculated based on the operating conditions of the vessel and / or the air release units. In an alternative implementation, the target airflow rate may be received by the controller from a separate processor communicating with the air supply.

[0078] The method may optionally include step S105, in which the airflow rate in the pipe network is measured. The airflow rate may include the total flow rate through all branches of the pipe network. For example, the airflow rate may be measured before it separates between branches. The airflow rate can be measured by at least one flow meter located at any point in the pipe network, or by at least one flow meter located, for example, in a common duct of the pipe network. Alternatively, the airflow rate can be measured indirectly based on pressure differentials and airflow temperatures measured on the pipe network.

[0079] Figure 5 Step S105, which is executed sequentially after step S100, is shown. However, steps S100 and S105 can be executed alternately in parallel, or step S100 can be executed sequentially before step S105. Alternatively, only one of steps S100 and S105 may be provided, or neither may be provided. For example, the airflow rate may be measured before receiving the target airflow rate, simultaneously with receiving the target airflow rate, or after receiving the target airflow rate.

[0080] The method may begin or continue in step S110, whereby airflow parameters of the air lubrication system are received. These airflow parameters may be received at the system controller. As otherwise described herein, the airflow parameters indicate or approximate the airflow rate (e.g., mass airflow rate) in the piping network. The airflow parameters may be a target airflow rate received at step S100. The airflow parameters may be the airflow rate measured at step S105.

[0081] In response to the received airflow parameters, the method may proceed to step S115, where the flow limit of the system's variable flow limiter is adjusted according to the airflow parameters. Adjusting the flow limit of each variable flow limiter may include selectively adjusting each respective variable flow limiter to change the amount of limit set in the corresponding branch of the variable flow limiter. As described herein, the variable flow limiter may be an actuated valve, a butterfly valve, an airflow damper, and / or an adjustable orifice plate.

[0082] In some implementations, adjusting the flow limit of a variable flow limiter includes providing a larger flow limit at lower values ​​of the airflow parameter and a smaller flow limit at higher values ​​of the airflow parameter. Adjusting the flow limit of a variable flow limiter may include maintaining the same flow limit for each variable flow limiter. Similarly, adjusting the flow limit of a variable flow limiter may include adjusting the flow limit of the variable flow limiter among multiple discrete flow limit levels based on the airflow parameter. In this case, each discrete flow limit level may correspond to a range of airflow parameter values.

[0083] Method for calibrating the position of the flow limiter Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating an example method for calibrating the first flow limiter position of a first variable flow limiter in a branch of a piping network provided in a ship's air lubrication system is shown. The first flow limiter position is used for a first flow restriction level of the first variable flow limiter. For example, the first flow restriction level may be a known restriction level of the first flow limiter, or a restriction level corresponding to a known pressure differential passing through the first flow limiter at a given airflow rate.

[0084] exist Figure 6 In this method, the piping network, air lubrication system, and ship are as described elsewhere herein, particularly with reference to Figures 1A to 4 As described in any of the diagrams in the reference. For example, an air lubrication system may include a device with a network of pipes, as shown in the reference. Figure 4 The device described is 400. Figure 6 At least a portion of the method shown can be executed by a controller, such as a reference controller. Figure 4 The controller 126 of the described device 400. Figure 6 The method shown can be referenced in this article. Figure 5 The described methods for modifying pressure loss on pipeline networks can be performed in parallel, or sequentially, either before or after.

[0085] The method for calibrating the flow limiter position can begin at step S200, in which the first variable flow limiter in a branch of the pipeline network is positioned at the initial flow limiter position. The initial flow limiter position can be the starting position of the variable flow limiter. For example, the initial flow limiter position can be a position previously calibrated to correspond to a first flow limit level.

[0086] Next, the method proceeds to step S205, in which a first pressure loss is measured on the first variable flow limiter, which is located at the initial flow limiter position. The first pressure loss can be measured using a differential pressure gauge disposed in the branch including the first variable flow limiter.

[0087] If the first pressure loss is outside the threshold range of the target pressure loss for the first flow restriction level, the method proceeds to step S210, where the first variable flow limiter is repositioned to a tuned flow limiter position. The threshold range includes the range of pressure loss relative to the target pressure loss for the first flow restriction level (e.g., an acceptable range within a set tolerance), within which the first flow limiter will be calibrated. For example, the threshold range may correspond to a specific range of pressure loss coefficient values. The tuned variable flow limiter position is a position different from the initial flow restriction position. For example, if the first pressure loss is less than the threshold range of the target pressure loss, the tuned variable flow limiter position may be a more restricted position. On the other hand, if the first pressure loss is greater than the threshold range of the target pressure loss, the tuned variable flow limiter position may be a less restricted position.

[0088] Alternatively, if the first pressure loss is outside the threshold range of the target pressure loss at the first flow limiter level, the first flow limiter position is calibrated according to (e.g., corresponding to) the initial flow limiter position.

[0089] Next, the method proceeds to step S215, in which a second pressure loss on the first variable flow limiter is measured when the first flow limiter is in the tuned flow limiter position. Similar to the first pressure loss, the second pressure loss can be measured using a differential pressure gauge installed in the branch including the first variable flow limiter.

[0090] If the second pressure loss is outside the threshold range of the target pressure loss at the first flow limit level, the method repeats steps S210 and S215 for a further tuned flow limit position. Otherwise, if the second pressure loss is within the threshold range, the method proceeds to step S220, in which the first flow limiter position is calibrated based on the tuned flow limiter position. Calibrating the first flow limiter position based on the tuned flow limiter position may include setting the tuned flow limiter position as the first flow limiter position. Alternatively, calibrating the first flow limiter position based on the tuned flow limiter position may include setting the first flow limiter position as the discrete flow limiter position closest to the tuned flow limiter position.

[0091] After calibrating the first flow limiter position in step S220, the method may continue to an optional step S225, in which other flow limiter positions may be calibrated. For example, one or more of the other flow limiter positions may be calibrated using steps corresponding to S200 to S220 described herein with respect to the first variable flow limiter. Specifically, another flow limiter position of the first variable flow limiter may be calibrated by positioning the first variable flow limiter at another initial flow limiter position. Pressure loss on the other variable flow limiter may then be measured. The other variable flow limiter may then be positioned at a corresponding tuned flow limiter position. Further pressure loss on the other variable flow limiter may then be measured at the corresponding tuned flow limiter position, and if the further pressure loss is within a threshold range, the other flow limiter position may be calibrated based on the corresponding tuned flow limiter position. Alternatively, other flow limiter positions may be calibrated based on the difference between the tuned flow limiter position and the initial flow limiter position used for the first flow limiter position. In these examples, other flow limiter locations may include other flow limiter locations of the first variable flow limiter and / or flow limiter locations of other variable flow limiters in the pipeline network.

[0092] In some examples, Figure 6 The method shown can be reused for other variable flow limiters in a piping network. For example, differential pressure gauges can be installed in multiple branches of the piping network and can individually measure the pressure loss at the respective variable flow limiter. Alternatively, pressure gauges can be temporarily installed in branches of the piping network, for example, for investigating faults.

[0093] Methods for installing an air lubrication system Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating an example method for installing an air lubrication system on a ship is shown. The air lubrication system can be as described elsewhere herein, particularly with reference to... Figures 1A to 4 As described in any of the diagrams.

[0094] The method may optionally begin at step S300, in which a plurality of air release units are disposed (e.g., installed to) the hull of the vessel. The air release units may be disposed on the hull by any suitable means, for example by welding the flanges of the air release units to the hull.

[0095] The method then optionally continues to step S305, in which a route is established for a duct network between the air supply unit and the plurality of air release units. The duct network can be as described in reference... Figure 4As described in the equipment description, the route of the piping network between the air supply unit and the multiple air release units allows each branch of the piping network to be fluidly connected to a corresponding air release unit among the multiple air release units.

[0096] The method then optionally proceeds to step S310, or begins at step S310, in which the corresponding variable flow limiter can be installed in each branch of the piping network. In some examples, particularly when the method begins at step S310, installing the variable flow limiter in each branch of the piping network can include retrofitting the variable flow limiter into the piping network of an existing air lubrication system in the vessel. For example, an existing air lubrication system may not provide a variable flow limiter.

[0097] Computing devices and computer-readable media The methods and approaches described herein can be implemented in a computer; in other words, they can be embodied on a computer-readable medium, which can be a non-transitory computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium may carry computer-readable instructions configured to execute on one or more processors to cause one or more processors to perform any or all of the methods described herein.

[0098] As used herein, the term "computer-readable medium" refers to any medium that stores data and / or instructions for causing a processor to operate in a particular manner. Such storage media can include non-volatile media and / or volatile media. Non-volatile media can include, for example, optical discs or magnetic disks. Volatile media can include dynamic memory. Exemplary forms of storage media include floppy disks, flexible disks, hard disks, solid-state drives, magnetic tape or any other magnetic data storage media, CD-ROMs (read-only optical disc drives), any other optical data storage media, any physical media having one or more hole patterns, RAM (random access memory), PROMs (programmable read-only memory), EPROMs (erasable programmable read-only memory), FLASH-EPROMs (fast erase programmable read-only memory), NVRAMs (non-volatile random access memory), and any other memory chip or cartridge memory.

[0099] Figure 8A block diagram illustrating one implementation of a computing device 1000 is shown, in which a set of instructions can be executed to cause the computing device to perform any or more of the methods discussed herein. For example, the computing device 1000 may be an example of the controller 126 described herein. In alternative implementations, the computing device may be connected (e.g., networked) to other machines in a local area network (LAN), intranet, extranet, or Internet. The computing device may operate as a server or client in a client-server network environment, or as a peer machine in a peer-to-peer (or distributed) network environment. The computing device may be a personal computer (PC), tablet computer, set-top box (STB), personal digital assistant (PDA), cellular phone, network device, server, network router, switch, or bridge, or any machine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) specifying the actions to be taken by the machine. Furthermore, while only a single computing device is illustrated, the term "computing device" should also be understood to include any collection of machines (e.g., computers) that individually or jointly execute a set (or more) of instructions to perform any or more of the methods discussed herein.

[0100] An exemplary computing device 1000 includes a processing device 1002 that communicates with each other via a bus 1030, a main memory 1004 (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, dynamic random access memory (DRAM), such as synchronous DRAM (SDRAM) or Rambus DRAM (RDRAM), etc.), a static memory 1006 (e.g., flash memory, static random access memory (SRAM), etc.), and an auxiliary memory (e.g., a data storage device 1018).

[0101] Processing device 1002 represents one or more general-purpose processors, such as microprocessors, central processing units, etc. More specifically, processing device 1002 may be a Complex Instruction Set Computing (CISC) microprocessor, a Reduced Instruction Set Computing (RISC) microprocessor, a Very Long Instruction Word (VLIW) microprocessor, a processor implementing other instruction sets, or a processor implementing combinations of instruction sets. Processing device 1002 may also be one or more special-purpose processing devices, such as application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), digital signal processors (DSPs), network processors, etc. Processing device 1002 is configured to execute processing logic (instructions 1022) for performing the operations, methods, and steps discussed herein.

[0102] The computing device 1000 may also include a network interface device 1008. The computing device 1000 may also include a video display unit 1010 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a cathode ray tube (CRT)), an alphanumeric input device 1012 (e.g., a keyboard or a touchscreen), a cursor control device 1014 (e.g., a mouse or a touchscreen), and an audio device 1016 (e.g., a speaker). The alphanumeric input device 1012 and the cursor control device 1014 can be considered together as a single input mechanism.

[0103] Data storage device 1018 may include one or more machine-readable storage media (or more specifically, one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media) 1028, on which one or more sets of instructions 1022 are stored, embodying any one or more methods or functions described herein. When the computer system 1000 executes the instructions, the instructions 1022 may also reside wholly or at least partially in main memory 1004 and / or processing device 1002, which also constitute computer-readable storage media.

[0104] The various methods described above can be implemented by computer programs. Computer programs may include computer code configured to instruct a computer to perform the functions of one or more of the methods described above. Computer programs and / or code for performing these methods may be provided to a device such as a computer, located on one or more computer-readable media, or more generally, on a computer program product. Computer-readable media may be temporary or non-temporary. One or more computer-readable media may be, for example, electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor systems, or propagation media for data transmission, such as for downloading code via the Internet. Alternatively, one or more computer-readable media may take the form of one or more physical computer-readable media, such as semiconductor or solid-state memory, magnetic tape, removable computer disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard disks, and optical disks, such as CD-ROM, CD-R / W, or DVD.

[0105] In implementation, the modules, components and other features described herein can be implemented as discrete components or integrated into the functionality of hardware components such as ASICs, FPGAs, DSPs or similar devices.

[0106] A "hardware component" is a tangible (e.g., non-temporary) physical component (e.g., a group of one or more processors) capable of performing certain operations and which can be physically constructed or arranged. A hardware component may include dedicated circuitry or logic permanently constructed to perform certain operations. A hardware component may be or may include dedicated processors such as field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) or application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). A hardware component may also include programmable logic or circuitry temporarily constructed by software to perform certain operations.

[0107] Therefore, the phrase “hardware component” should be understood to include tangible entities that can be physically constructed, permanently constructed (e.g., hard-connected) or temporarily constructed (e.g., programmed) to operate or perform certain operations described herein in some way.

[0108] Furthermore, modules and components can be implemented as functional circuitry within firmware or hardware devices. Additionally, modules and components can be implemented as any combination of hardware devices and software components, or solely as software (e.g., code stored or otherwise contained in a machine-readable medium or transmission medium).

[0109] For example, machine learning techniques can optimize any parameter of this disclosure—such as any threshold—by training a computational neural network based on exemplary training data. Therefore, a database of past operations can be provided on a local or remote content management system. Once the machine learning techniques have trained the parameters for a given genre or genre track, no further active machine learning is required.

[0110] Unless otherwise specified, it is evident from the foregoing discussion that, throughout the description, the use of terms such as “receive,” “determine,” “compare,” “enable,” “hold,” and “identify” refers to the operation and processes of a computer system or similar electronic computing device that manipulates and transforms data represented as physical (electronic) quantities in the registers and memories of the computer system, and stores other data similarly represented as physical quantities in the computer system’s memory or registers or other such information storage, transmission, or display devices.

[0111] The final (Penultimate) statement It should be understood that certain terms used in the foregoing description are for convenience and not restrictive. Unless otherwise stated, the terms “a,” “the,” and “described” should be understood as meaning “at least one.” The term “comprising” should be understood as “including, but not limited to,” such that a system or method comprising a particular feature or step is not limited to only those features or steps listed, but may also include features or steps not listed. Similarly, terms such as “upper,” “lower,” “front,” “rear,” “right,” “left,” “top,” “bottom,” “side,” “clockwise,” and “counterclockwise” are used for convenience of interpreting the drawings and should not be construed as restrictive. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, any method steps described in the figures that are performed sequentially may be performed alternately in any order. Additionally, any method steps represented by flowchart frames indicated by dashed lines or dotted lines should be understood as optional.

[0112] The foregoing description is intended to be illustrative, not restrictive. Many other implementations will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the foregoing description. Although this disclosure has been described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments, it will be appreciated that this disclosure is not limited to the described implementations, but can be practiced with modifications and variations within the spirit and scope of this application. Therefore, the specification and drawings should be considered in an illustrative rather than restrictive sense.

[0113] In addition, this disclosure includes the following provisions: Clause 1. An apparatus for supplying air from an air supply unit to two air release units disposed on the hull of a vessel, the apparatus comprising: The piping network includes two branches, each branch being used to fluidly connect the air supply unit to one of the two air release units; A variable flow limiter is installed in each branch; and The controller is configured to adjust the flow limit of the variable flow limiter based on the airflow parameters of the equipment.

[0114] Clause 2. The device according to Clause 1, wherein the controller is configured to: adjust the flow limit to provide a larger flow limit when the airflow parameter is at a lower value; and adjust the flow limit to provide a smaller flow limit when the airflow parameter is at a higher value.

[0115] Clause 3. The device according to Clause 1 or 2, wherein the controller is configured to maintain the same flow limit for each of the variable flow limiters.

[0116] Clause 4. The device according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the airflow parameters include measured airflow rates in the duct network.

[0117] Clause 5. The device according to any of the preceding clauses further includes a flow meter configured to measure the airflow rate in the piping network.

[0118] Clause 6. The device according to Clause 5, wherein the flow meter is disposed in a common conduit for fluidly connecting the air supply to each of the two branches.

[0119] Clause 7. The device according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the airflow parameters include a target airflow rate, wherein the target airflow rate is a requested airflow rate from the air supply.

[0120] Clause 8. The device according to Clause 7, wherein the controller is configured to transmit a target airflow rate to the air supply.

[0121] Clause 9. The device according to Clause 7 or 8, wherein the controller is configured to receive a target airflow rate from the air supply.

[0122] Clause 10. The device according to any one of Clauses 7 to 9, wherein the target airflow rate is positively correlated with the ship's speed and / or the ship's draft.

[0123] Clause 11. The device according to any one of Clauses 7 to 10, wherein the target airflow rate is determined based on the conditions of the air release unit.

[0124] Clause 12. The device according to any one of Clauses 7 to 11, wherein the controller is configured to receive one or more of ship speed data, ship draft data and / or air release unit condition data, and to set a target airflow rate based on one or more of the ship speed data, ship draft data and / or air release unit condition data.

[0125] Clause 13. The device according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the flow limit in each variable flow limiter among a plurality of discrete flow limit levels based on airflow parameters.

[0126] Clause 14. The device according to Clause 13, wherein each discrete flow restriction level corresponds to a range of airflow parameter values.

[0127] Clause 15. The device according to Clause 13 or 14, wherein the discrete flow limit levels correspond to corresponding flow limiter positions, and wherein the controller is configured to calibrate a first flow limiter position for a first variable flow limiter of two variable flow limiters, the first flow limiter position being used for a first flow limit level of the discrete flow limit levels, the calibration being performed by: Position the first variable flow limiter at the initial flow limiter position; The first pressure loss on the first variable flow limiter is measured; If the first pressure loss is outside the threshold range of the target pressure loss at the first flow limit level, the first variable flow limiter is positioned at the tuned flow limiter position. The second pressure loss on the first variable flow limiter is measured; and If the second pressure loss is within the threshold range, the first flow limiter position is calibrated based on the tuned flow limiter position.

[0128] Clause 16. The device according to Clause 15 further includes a differential pressure gauge disposed in the first branch of the two branches and configured to measure the pressure loss of the first variable flow limiter disposed in the first branch.

[0129] Clause 17. The device according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the variable flow limiter comprises one or more of an actuable valve, a butterfly valve, an airflow damper, and / or an adjustable orifice plate.

[0130] Clause 18. The apparatus according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the apparatus is used to supply air from an air supply unit to four air release units disposed on the hull of the vessel, and wherein the piping network comprises four branches, each branch being used to fluidly connect the air supply to a corresponding air release unit among the four air release units.

[0131] Clause 19. A system for supplying air to two air release units disposed on the hull of a vessel, the system comprising: The equipment described in any of the foregoing clauses; and An air supply unit, which is fluidly connected to the piping network of the device.

[0132] Clause 20. The system described in Clause 19, wherein the air supply unit includes the ship's engine, and wherein a duct network is configured to purge air from the engine.

[0133] Clause 21. The system described in Clause 19 or 20, wherein the air supply includes a compressor configured to discharge air into a duct network.

[0134] Clause 22. A vessel comprising: hull; Two air release units are installed on the hull; and A system for supplying air as described in any of Articles 19 to 21.

[0135] Clause 23. A method for modifying pressure loss on a piping network of an air lubrication system for a ship, the air lubrication system comprising a piping network, an air supply, and two air release units disposed on the ship's hull, wherein the piping network fluidly connects the air supply to the two air release units and includes two branches, each branch fluidly connecting the air supply to one of the two air release units, wherein a variable flow limiter is provided in each branch, the method comprising: Receive airflow parameters from the air lubrication system; and The flow limit of the variable flow limiter is adjusted according to the airflow parameters.

[0136] Clause 24. The method according to Clause 23, wherein the method is performed by the controller of the air lubrication system.

[0137] Clause 25. The method according to Clause 23 or 24, wherein adjusting the flow limit of the variable flow limiter includes: providing a larger flow limit when the airflow parameter is at a lower value; and providing a smaller flow limit when the airflow parameter is at a higher value.

[0138] Clause 26. The method according to any one of Clauses 23 to 25, wherein adjusting the flow limit of the variable flow limiter includes maintaining the same flow limit for each variable flow limiter.

[0139] Clause 27. The method according to any one of Clauses 23 to 26 further includes measuring the airflow rate in the duct network, wherein the airflow parameter includes the measured airflow rate.

[0140] Clause 28. The method according to Clause 27, wherein measuring the airflow rate includes measuring the airflow rate with a flow meter, wherein the flow meter is optionally disposed in a common duct for fluidly connecting the air supply to each of the two branches.

[0141] Clause 29. The method according to any one of Clauses 23 to 28, wherein the airflow parameters include a target airflow rate, wherein the target airflow rate is a requested airflow rate from the air supply.

[0142] Clause 30. The method according to Clause 29 further includes requesting an air supply to supply air to the duct network at a target airflow rate or receiving a target airflow rate from an air supply.

[0143] Clause 31. The method described in accordance with Clause 29 or 30, wherein the target airflow rate is positively correlated with the ship's speed and / or the ship's draft.

[0144] Clause 32. The method according to any one of Clauses 29 to 31, wherein the target airflow rate is determined based on the conditions of the air release unit.

[0145] Clause 33. The method according to any one of Clauses 29 to 32, further comprising receiving one or more of ship speed data, ship draft data and / or air release unit condition data, and setting a target airflow rate based on one or more of the ship speed data, ship draft data and / or air release unit condition data.

[0146] Clause 34. The method according to any one of Clauses 23 to 33, wherein adjusting the flow limit of the variable flow limiter includes adjusting the flow limit of the variable flow limiter among a plurality of discrete flow limit levels based on airflow parameters.

[0147] Clause 35. The method according to Clause 34, wherein each discrete flow restriction level corresponds to a range of airflow parameter values.

[0148] Clause 36. A method for calibrating the position of a first flow limiter of a first variable flow limiter in a first branch of a piping network of an air lubrication system of a ship, the air lubrication system comprising a piping network disposed on the hull, an air supply and two air release units, wherein the piping network fluidly connects the air supply to the two air release units and includes two branches; each branch fluidly connects the air supply to a corresponding air release unit of the two air release units, wherein a variable flow limiter is disposed in each branch, wherein the position of the first flow limiter is for a first flow limit level of the first variable flow limiter, the method comprising: Position the first variable flow limiter at the initial flow limiter position; Measure the first pressure loss on the first variable flow limiter; If the first pressure loss is outside the threshold range of the target pressure loss at the first flow limit level, then the first variable flow limiter is positioned at the tuned flow limiter position. Measure the second pressure loss on the first variable flow limiter; and If the second pressure loss is within the threshold range, the position of the first flow limiter is calibrated according to the tuned flow limiter position.

[0149] Clause 37. The method according to Clause 36, wherein the first flow restriction level has multiple discrete flow restriction levels.

[0150] Clause 38. The method according to Clause 36 or 37, wherein a first pressure loss and a second pressure loss are measured using a differential pressure gauge disposed in the first branch to measure the pressure loss on the first variable flow limiter.

[0151] Clause 39. A method for installing a system according to any one of Clauses 19 to 21 onto a vessel, the method comprising fitting a variable flow limiter into each branch of a piping network.

[0152] Clause 40. The method of Clause 39, further comprising routing a duct network between the air supply unit and the two air release units such that each branch of the duct network fluidly connects the air supply unit to a corresponding air release unit of the two air release units.

[0153] Clause 41. The method described in accordance with Clause 39 or 40 further includes providing two air release units on the hull of the vessel.

Claims

1. A device for supplying air from an air supply unit to two air release units disposed on the hull of a ship, characterized in that, The device includes: A piping network comprising two branches, each branch being used to fluidly connect the air supply unit to a corresponding air release unit of the two air release units; A variable flow limiter is installed in each branch; and A controller configured to adjust the flow limit of the variable flow limiter based on the airflow parameters of the device.

2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The controller is configured to: adjust the flow limit to provide a larger flow limit when the airflow parameter is at a lower value; and adjust the flow limit to provide a smaller flow limit when the airflow parameter is at a higher value.

3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The controller is configured to maintain the same flow limit for each variable flow limiter.

4. The device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The airflow parameters include the measured airflow rates in the pipe network.

5. The device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The device also includes a flow meter configured to measure the airflow rate in the duct network, wherein the flow meter is disposed in a common duct for fluidly connecting the air supply unit to each of the two branches.

6. The device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The airflow parameters include a target airflow rate, wherein the target airflow rate is a requested airflow rate from the air supply.

7. The device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The target airflow rate is positively correlated with the ship's speed and / or the ship's draft; and / or, the target airflow rate is determined based on the conditions of the air release unit.

8. The device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The controller is configured to adjust the flow limit in each variable flow limiter among a plurality of discrete flow limit levels based on the airflow parameters, wherein each discrete flow limit level corresponds to a range of airflow parameter values.

9. The device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The discrete flow restriction levels correspond to corresponding flow limiter positions, and the controller is configured to calibrate a first flow limiter position for a first variable flow limiter of two variable flow limiters, the first flow limiter position being used for a first flow restriction level among the discrete flow restriction levels, the calibration being performed by: Position the first variable flow limiter at the initial flow limiter position; The first pressure loss on the first variable flow limiter is measured; If the first pressure loss is outside the threshold range of the target pressure loss at the first flow limit level, the first variable flow limiter is positioned at the tuned flow limiter position. The second pressure loss on the first variable flow limiter is measured; and If the second pressure loss is within the threshold range, the first flow limiter position is calibrated based on the tuned flow limiter position.

10. The device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The device also includes a differential pressure gauge disposed in the first of the two branches, and the differential pressure gauge is configured to measure the pressure loss on a first variable flow limiter disposed in the first branch.

11. The device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The variable flow limiter includes one or more of an actuable valve, a butterfly valve, an airflow damper, and / or an adjustable orifice plate.

12. A system for supplying air to two air release units disposed on the hull of a ship, characterized in that, The system includes: The device according to any one of claims 1 to 11; and An air supply unit, which is fluidly connected to the piping network of the device.

13. The system according to claim 12, characterized in that, The air supply unit includes: the ship's engine, wherein the duct network is configured to scavenge air from the engine; and / or a compressor configured to discharge air into the duct network.

14. A ship, characterized in that, The vessels include: hull; Two air release units are installed on the hull; and The system for supplying air according to claim 12 or 13.

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