A Hybrid Power Generation System for Unmanned Vessels with Configurable Generator Architecture and Advanced Power Quality Management

Abstract

A system may include an unmanned vessel comprising: a gas turbine engine for propulsion; a power generation system driven by a power take-off (PTO) shaft coupled to the gas turbine engine, or alternatively by a diesel generator; a power distribution network supplying power to automation, sensors, and communication networks aboard the ship; at least one variable frequency drive (VFD)-controlled electric thruster; and a harmonic suppression subsystem configured to mitigate electrical waveform distortions caused by the VFD-controlled thruster, thereby protecting operational integrity of the automation and communication networks.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application is a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 19 / 098,392 filed Jul. 15, 2024, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to unmanned or autonomous maritime vessels (“drone ships”) and more particularly to an integrated electrical power generation, propulsion, and distribution system designed to tolerate harmonic interference from electric motor drives while maintaining automation and communication integrity.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Modern unmanned vessels also referred to herein as “drone ships” rely on complex automation, sensor arrays, and communication networks to operate autonomously. These systems are highly sensitive to electrical waveform integrity. Traditional marine vessels often use diesel engines to power electrical generators; however, gas turbines present a lighter and faster alternative for propulsion and power generation.

[0004] In such configurations, variable frequency drive (VFD) electric thrusters—used for precise maneuvering via bow or stern thrusters—can introduce harmonic distortions in the vessel's electrical system. These distortions can interfere with automation control, sensor accuracy, and data transmission reliability. As shipboard electrical loads increase and reliance on electric propulsion and autonomy grows, a harmonic-tolerant architecture becomes vital.

[0005] Unmanned vessels, such as large surface drone ships, demand robust and adaptable power generation systems to support propulsion, auxiliary systems, and sensitive onboard equipment. These vessels typically employ a gas turbine as the primary power source for propulsion, supplemented by secondary power sources to meet diverse electrical demands. Secondary power may be provided by a generator, which could be either an independent diesel engine-generator or a generator driven by a Power Take-Off (PTO) shaft mechanically coupled to the gas turbine. Each configuration presents unique challenges, particularly in maintaining power quality for sensitive loads, such as sensors, computers, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), weapon systems, and communication networks.

[0006] In systems with an independent diesel generator, harmonic distortion from the generator, battery chargers, or inverters can degrade power quality, risking malfunctions in sensitive equipment. However, when the generator is PTO-driven, an additional layer of complexity arises: the generator's frequency varies directly with the gas turbine's rotational speed (RPM). As the turbine's RPM fluctuates—akin to “the dog wagging the tail”—the PTO-driven generator's output frequency becomes unstable, exacerbating electrical problems for connected loads, including variable frequency drives (VFDs) for thrusters and critical autonomous systems. Traditional power systems lack integrated solutions to address both harmonic interference and frequency variability in a hybrid configuration adaptable to either generator type.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The invention provides an integrated system for propulsion and electrical power generation on a drone ship using a gas turbine, optionally with a battery backup system, where electric power may be generated via a power take-off (PTO) shaft or an auxiliary diesel generator. The system includes harmonic-filtering and waveform-conditioning elements designed to ensure the reliability of automation and communication systems in the presence of harmonic interference from variable frequency drives operating electric thrusters.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The drawings presented herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the scope of the claims. Rather, the drawings are intended to help enable one having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the claimed inventions. The drawings are drawn to scale.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the unmanned vessel drone ship propulsion and power architecture, including the gas turbine, PTO shaft, optional propeller, and electrical distribution system;

[0010] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the harmonic-tolerant power distribution system with filters and isolation elements;

[0011] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram showing the interaction between VFD-controlled loads and the control and mitigation systems;

[0012] FIG. 4 is a mechanical schematic of the PTO shaft coupling between the gas turbine and generator;

[0013] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the hybrid system with an independent diesel generator, highlighting power flow and harmonic mitigation;

[0014] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of the hybrid system using a PTO-driven generator with a power electronics module for frequency regulation;

[0015] FIG. 7 is a schematic of the electrical bus architecture featuring harmonic filtering and an optional dual-bus setup for sensitive equipment;

[0016] FIG. 8 is a control architecture diagram of the Power Management System (PMS) showing communication with generation sources, battery, and thruster controls;

[0017] FIG. 9 depicts a schematic representations of a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention as a hybrid power generation system provided using a computer program for energy management;

[0018] FIG. 10 depicts schematic representations of a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention as a hybrid diesel power generation system installed on a drone ship; and

[0019] FIG. 11 is a flow chart of functions performed by the hybrid diesel power generation system installed on a drone ship.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] A detailed description will now be provided. The purpose of this detailed description, which includes the drawings, is to satisfy the statutory requirements of 35 U.S.C. § 112. For example, the detailed description includes a description of inventions defined by the claims and sufficient information that would enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the inventions. In the figures, like elements are generally indicated by like reference numerals regardless of the view or figure in which the elements appear. The figures are intended to assist the description and to provide a visual representation of certain aspects of the subject matter described herein. The figures are not all necessarily drawn to scale, nor do they show all the structural details, nor do they limit the scope of the claims.

[0021] Each of the appended claims defines a separate invention which, for infringement purposes, is recognized as including equivalents of the various elements or limitations specified in the claims. Depending on the context, all references below to the “invention” may in some cases refer to certain specific embodiments only. In other cases, it will be recognized that references to the “invention” will refer to the subject matter recited in one or more, but not necessarily all, of the claims. Each of the inventions will now be described in greater detail below, including specific embodiments, versions, and examples, but the inventions are not limited to these specific embodiments, versions, or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the inventions when the information in this patent is combined with available information and technology. Various terms as used herein are defined below, and the definitions should be adopted when construing the claims that include those terms, except to the extent a different meaning is given within the specification or in express representations to the Patent and Trademark Office (PTO). To the extent a term used in a claim is not defined below or in representations to the PTO, it should be given the broadest definition persons having skill in the art have given that term as reflected in at least one printed publication, dictionary, or issued patent.

[0022] Certain specific embodiments of methods, structures, elements, and parts are described below, which are by no means an exclusive description of the inventions. Other specific embodiments, including those referenced in the drawings, are encompassed by this application and any patent that issues therefrom.

[0023] The present invention provides a hybrid power generation system that seamlessly integrates a gas turbine, a configurable secondary generator (independent or PTO-driven), and a battery system, all managed by an advanced Power Management System (PMS). The system incorporates harmonic mitigation technologies and, for PTO-driven generators, specific frequency regulation mechanisms to ensure stable, clean power across all operating conditions, making it ideal for unmanned vessel applications.

[0024] The system architecture is modular and allows for hybrid combinations of propulsion (gas turbine, electric) and generation (PTO or diesel). VFD-induced harmonics are mitigated using active or passive filters, isolation transformers, and / or waveform correction software embedded in smart inverters or power conditioning units. The system monitors total harmonic distortion (THD) and dynamically adjusts filters or reroutes power flows to protect critical systems.

[0025] The system includes but is not limited to a primary propulsion system comprising a gas turbine jet engine and / or propeller; a power generation subsystem coupled to the gas turbine via a PTO shaft, or alternatively powered by a diesel generator; an onboard power distribution network supporting high-sensitivity automation, control, and communication subsystems; one or more electric motor-driven thrusters (bow / stern) controlled by VFDs; a Harmonic suppression and waveform conditioning modules integrated with the power distribution system to ensure operational integrity; and optional large-scale battery system for hybrid operation and load balancing.

[0026] The invention anticipates variations in configuration (e.g., absence of battery or inclusion of separate diesel generation) and provides architectural flexibility (“wiggle room”) to maintain power quality under all operating modes.

[0027] The hybrid power generation system is engineered for large, unmanned surface vessels and comprises the following components: a Gas Turbine: The primary power source, delivering mechanical energy for propulsion and, optionally, driving a PTO shaft for auxiliary power generation. A Secondary Generator: Configurable in one of two illustrative embodiments: 1) Independent Diesel Engine-Generator: A standalone unit supplying auxiliary power to the electrical bus, operating at a fixed frequency but potentially introducing harmonics. 2) PTO-Driven Generator: Mechanically coupled to the gas turbine via a PTO shaft, with its electrical output frequency varying proportionally to the turbine's RPM, necessitating additional stabilization.

[0028] Battery System: Managed by a Battery Management System (BMS), it stores energy and provides rapid power for peak demands or backup scenarios. Electrical Bus: Distributes power from the gas turbine, secondary generator, and battery system to all vessel loads, including propulsion, thrusters, and sensitive equipment.

[0029] Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs): Control thrusters, requiring stable voltage and frequency for optimal performance. Sensitive Equipment: Encompasses sensors, computers, PLCs, weapon systems, and communication networks, all susceptible to harmonic distortion and frequency fluctuations.

[0030] Power Management System (PMS). The PMS is the system's autonomous control hub, performing the following functions: Load Distribution: Allocates power demands across the gas turbine, secondary generator, and battery system based on real-time conditions. Source Optimization: Prioritizes power sources to maximize efficiency and minimize fuel consumption or emissions. Power Quality Management: Monitors and mitigates harmonics across the bus and, for PTO-driven generators, regulates frequency to maintain stability. Fault Response: Detects anomalies (e.g., excessive harmonics or frequency drift) and adjusts operations or switches power sources as needed.

[0031] Secondary Generator Configurations. The system's flexibility in generator configuration is a key feature: Independent Diesel Engine-Generator: Operates at a fixed frequency, typically 50 or 60 Hz, independent of the gas turbine. Primary challenge: Harmonic distortion from the generator or associated power electronics, addressed via mitigation strategies.

[0032] PTO-Driven Generator: Mechanically driven by the gas turbine via a PTO shaft, with output frequency directly tied to turbine RPM. Additional challenge: Frequency variability (e.g., ranging from 40-70 Hz or more) as turbine speed fluctuates, creating instability for VFDs and sensitive loads. Solution: A frequency regulation mechanism stabilizes the output.

[0033] Harmonic Mitigation Harmonic distortion, present in both generator configurations, arises from the secondary generator, battery chargers, inverters, or VFDs. To protect sensitive equipment, the system employs: Active Harmonic Filters: Connected to the electrical bus, these detect and neutralize harmonic distortions in real time. Isolation Transformers: Provide electrical isolation for sensitive loads, reducing noise transmission.

[0034] Dual-Bus Option: An optional configuration separates sensitive equipment onto a dedicated bus with enhanced filtering, ensuring clean power delivery. These measures are critical for both generator types but especially pronounced in PTO-driven systems, where frequency variability can amplify harmonic effects.

[0035] Frequency Regulation for PTO-Driven Generators In the PTO-driven configuration, the generator's frequency varies with the gas turbine's RPM, posing significant challenges for electrical loads. For example, as turbine speed increases or decreases, the generator's output frequency may shift unpredictably, disrupting VFD operation and sensitive equipment. To address this “dog wags the tail” effect, the system includes but is not limited to a Power Electronics Module: Rectifies the PTO-driven generator's variable-frequency AC output to DC and Inverts the DC back to stable, fixed-frequency AC (e.g., 60 Hz) suitable for the bus.

[0036] Synchronization: The PMS ensures the inverted output aligns with the bus frequency, enabling seamless integration with other power sources. Dynamic Adjustment: The module adapts to real-time turbine speed changes, maintaining consistent power delivery. This regulation mechanism ensures that the PTO-driven generator provides reliable power, even under variable operating conditions, mitigating the additional electrical problems identified by the user.

[0037] Battery System Functionality. The battery system, controlled by the BMS, enhances system performance by: Peak Load Support: Supplies power during high-demand events (e.g., thruster activation), reducing reliance on generators. Emergency Backup: Maintains critical system operation during generator transitions or failures.

[0038] Harmonic-Aware Operation: Charges during low-harmonic periods, as directed by the PMS, to minimize interference.

[0039] VFDs and Thruster Integration: The system powers VFD-controlled thrusters, which are sensitive to power quality. To ensure reliability: Filtered Supply: Dedicated harmonic filters protect the VFD supply lines. Stable Power: The PMS coordinates generator and battery outputs to deliver consistent voltage and frequency, critical for thruster performance.Autonomous Design for Unmanned Operation: Designed for unmanned vessels, the system operates without human intervention: Real-Time Monitoring: The PMS tracks power quality metrics (harmonics, frequency, voltage) continuously.

[0040] Self-Correction: Automatically adjusts operations to address detected issues. Remote Capability: Optionally interfaces with a Human-Machine Interface (HMI) for remote oversight, though fully functional autonomously.

[0041] FIG. 1 is a Schematic of unmanned vessel (Drone Ship) Propulsion and Power Architecture as a high-level schematic illustrating the propulsion and electrical power flow in an unmanned drone ship. This includes a gas turbine propulsion source, optional propeller interface, PTO shaft linkages to the generator, and an onboard power distribution system.

[0042] Key Components: Gas turbine (primary propulsion); Optional propeller or waterjet interface; PTO shaft linking turbine to generator; Battery storage (optional hybrid mode); Electrical bus connected to ship wide systems. Automation / sensor networks. VFD-controlled thrusters (bow / stern). Notations: Arrows for power flow. Rectangular blocks for major components. Dotted connections for optional systems (e.g., diesel generator, battery).

[0043] FIG. 2 is a Block Diagram of Harmonic-Tolerant Power Distribution System is a schematic depiction of a simplified functional block layout of the ship's power architecture emphasizing harmonic tolerance and filter placement. The Key Components can include but are not limited to an Electrical generator (PTO or diesel): Electrical bus; Harmonic filter block; Isolation transformers; Sensitive equipment load block (e.g., PLCs, comms, navigation); PMS block; and Battery system. Notations: Arrows show direction of power flow. Wavy lines represent harmonic filters; Dashed lines for control signaling.

[0044] FIG. 3 is a Flow Diagram Showing Interaction Between VFD Loads and Control Systems is a process flow diagram detailing how VFD-controlled thrusters interact with automation systems and power control routines. Key Components: VFDs for electric thrusters; PMS. Harmonic suppression modules; Real-time monitoring system; Feedback loop to PMS for frequency / harmonic compensation. Notations: Circular flow arrows indicating feedback control. Blocks representing control logic (e.g., PID, waveform correction)

[0045] FIG. 4 depicts a PTO Shaft Coupling Between Gas Turbine and Generator in a mechanical schematic illustrating how the gas turbine's rotational output is transferred via a PTO shaft to an auxiliary generator. Key Components can include but are not limited to Gas turbine shaft output; PTO coupling; Vibration isolation (if applicable); Generator input shaft; and Mechanical enclosure. Notations: Rotational arrows showing torque direction; Cross-section view showing shaft alignment; and Labels denoting RPM-dependent coupling

[0046] Turning now to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a Block diagram of the hybrid system with an independent diesel generator, showing power flow and harmonic mitigation. A block diagram showing the hybrid power architecture with a gas turbine, an independent diesel generator, a battery system, and a central Electrical Bus. Key Components can include but are not limited to a Gas turbine (primary propulsion); Independent diesel generator (auxiliary power); Battery system with BMS; Electrical bus connecting all power sources. A Power Management System (PMS) box, with arrows indicating control of generator dispatch and load balancing. Harmonic filters connected to buses; Isolation transformers upstream of sensitive equipment; Sensitive loads (e.g., PLCs, sensors, weapons systems). VFD-controlled thrusters. Notations: Solid arrows indicate power flow; Dashed arrows indicate control signals from PMS; Wavy symbols at harmonic filter locations.

[0047] Turning now to FIG. 6, FIG. 6 is a block diagram of the hybrid system with a PTO-driven generator, including the power electronics module for frequency regulation. Description: Block diagram emphasizing the configuration where the secondary generator is PTO-driven by the gas turbine and includes a Power Electronics Module for frequency stabilization. Key Components: Gas turbine with mechanical shaft connected to: PTO-driven generator. Arrow showing variable-frequency AC output. Power Electronics Module can include but is not limited to a Rectifier converting AC to DC; Inverter converting DC back to fixed-frequency AC; Electrical bus; Battery system with BMS; PMS coordinating all power sources; Sensitive loads and VFDs; Harmonic filters as in FIG. 5. Notations: Label “Variable frequency AC” at generator output. Label “Fixed frequency AC” after inverter. Lightning bolt symbol over electronics module to denote regulation. Control arrows from PMS to inverter, generator, and battery.

[0048] Turning now to FIG. 7, FIG. 7 is an electrical bus schematic with harmonic filters and optional dual-bus configuration for sensitive equipment. Description:Detailed electrical bus schematic showing how harmonic filters and optional dual-bus architecture protect sensitive systems. Key Components: Central electrical bus; Harmonic filters branching off main bus lines.

[0049] Optional second bus (Dual-Bus Configuration). Labeled “Clean Bus” for sensitive loads. Connected via isolation transformer from main bus. Sensitive loads (e.g., labeled “Sensors,”“Comms,”“PLC”). General loads (e.g., labeled “Thrusters,”“Battery Chargers”). PMS box overseeing distribution. Notations: Filter symbols on both buses; Transformer icon between main bus and clean bus. Labels indicating “Filtered Power Path” and “Unfiltered Load Path.”

[0050] Turning now to FIG. 8 shows a PMS Control Architecture Functional block diagram of the Power Management System (PMS) showing how it interfaces with all major components for autonomous control. The PMS can include but is not limited to a PMS central block. Control lines to: Gas turbine; Diesel generator or PTO-driven generator (selectable); Battery system; VFDs; Power Electronics Module (if present). Inputs: Real-time metrics: frequency, voltage, harmonic distortion; Load demand signals. Outputs: Dispatch commands; Fault correction actions. Synchronization commands.

[0051] Optional connection to remote Human-Machine Interface (HMI). Notations: Bidirectional arrows between PMS and controlled components; “Auto Mode” and “Remote Mode” labeled near PMS block; Alert icon indicating anomaly detection and corrective logic.

[0052] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an unmanned vessel including: a gas turbine engine for propulsion; a power generation system driven by a power take-off (PTO) shaft coupled to the gas turbine engine, or alternatively by a diesel generator; a power distribution network supplying power to automation, sensors, and communication networks aboard the ship; at least one variable frequency drive (VFD)-controlled electric thruster; and a harmonic suppression subsystem configured to mitigate electrical waveform distortions caused by the VFD-controlled thruster, thereby protecting operational integrity of the automation and communication networks.

[0053] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an unmanned vessel, wherein the power generation system includes a high-speed generator mechanically linked to the gas turbine via a PTO shaft.

[0054] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an unmanned vessel, further including a battery energy storage system operable to support propulsion or balance electrical loads.

[0055] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an unmanned vessel, wherein the harmonic suppression subsystem includes at least one of: passive harmonic filters; active harmonic compensation units; isolation transformers; and software-controlled waveform correction modules.

[0056] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an unmanned vessel, wherein the control system monitors total harmonic distortion and triggers mitigation routines dynamically to protect mission-critical systems.

[0057] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an unmanned vessel, further including a modular control architecture allowing reconfiguration of power sources and propulsion modes based on mission requirements or fault conditions.

[0058] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a hybrid power generation system for unmanned vessels, including: a gas turbine as the primary power source; a secondary generator configurable as either an independent diesel engine-generator or a PTO-driven generator mechanically coupled to the gas turbine; a battery system for energy storage and peak load support; and a Power Management System (PMS) configured to autonomously manage power distribution and mitigate harmonic distortion.

[0059] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a system, wherein the secondary generator is PTO-driven, further including a power electronics module to convert variable-frequency AC output to stable, fixed-frequency AC.

[0060] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a system, further including active harmonic filters and isolation transformers to protect sensitive equipment from electrical noise. In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a system, wherein the PMS maintains stable power for VFD-controlled thrusters under variable operating conditions.

[0061] Imagine a navy drone ship—a sleek, crewless vessel packed with sensors, radars, and thrusters, all working together to complete missions like spying on enemies, chasing targets, or launching weapons. These robotic ships are the Navy's future, built for tasks like long patrols or combat support, all without a single sailor aboard. To make this work, they need a power system that's reliable, efficient, and smart enough to keep everything running smoothly, no matter what the challenge.

[0062] This hybrid power system from ElectronicPowerDesign.com, who is the world leader in delivery of hybrid ship power systems, is like a dream team of power sources—engines, batteries, solar panels, a special transformer, a harmonic distortion reducer, and a resistive power distribution system—working together to keep the ship going. It combines ideas from U.S. Pat. Nos. 12,286,204, 11,333,085, 10,530,290, 10,511,169, 10,337,424, 9,742,308, 9,401,605, 8,368,246, and 7,804,190 creating a powerhouse perfect for a navy drone ship. In this guide, we'll break down what makes these ships tick, why power is their lifeline, and how this system, boosted by the transformer, harmonic distortion reducer, and resistive power distribution, makes their electricity cleaner, more reliable, and safer than ever. We'll use simple language and fun analogies so anyone can understand!What's a Navy Drone Ship, and why Does Power Matter?

[0063] A navy drone ship is like a floating robot—autonomous, unmanned, and packed with gadgets to tackle naval jobs. Think of it as a high-tech toolbox with:

[0064] Sensors: Sonar, radar, and cameras to spot threats or map the ocean.

[0065] Communication Gear: Radios and satellites to send updates back to base.

[0066] Navigation Systems: Computers and thrusters to steer without a captain.

[0067] Propulsion: Engines or motors to move across the water.

[0068] Weapons (Sometimes): Drones or missiles for tough situations.

[0069] These drone ships might cruise for weeks, sneak through enemy waters, or race after targets—all on their own. With no crew to fix problems or refuel, their power system has to be top-notch. Here's why power is so critical:

[0070] Reliability: If the power dies, the ship's stuck—no one's there to restart it.

[0071] Efficiency: Limited fuel means every bit has to stretch far for long missions.

[0072] Autonomy: It has to manage itself, switching power sources without help.

[0073] Stealth: Quiet power—like no engine noise—keeps it hidden.

[0074] Flexibility: Power needs change fast, from a little for sensors to a lot for speed.

[0075] Safety: The system must handle electrical faults, like short circuits, without blowing up or catching fire.

[0076] A regular diesel engine won't cut it—it's noisy, fuel-hungry, and slow to adapt. This hybrid system, though, mixes multiple power sources with a smart controller, a transformer, a harmonic distortion reducer, and a resistive power distribution system, making it perfect for a drone ship.The Hybrid Power Team: Engines, Batteries, and Solar Panels

[0077] This system is like a superhero squad, each part bringing its own strength to keep the ship powered. Here's the crew:Engines (Diesel and Natural Gas)What They Do: These are the marathon runners, burning diesel or natural gas (from U.S. Pat. Nos. 11,333,085 and 10,337,424) to make steady electricity for hours or days.

[0079] Why They're Great: On a long patrol, engines keep the ship moving and power big stuff like sonar or thrusters. Diesel's reliable; natural gas is cleaner and can save fuel if the ship's set up for it.

[0080] Details: They spin a generator to create power, which either runs systems directly or charges batteries.BatteriesWhat They Do: These are the sprinters, storing electricity and releasing it fast (U.S. Pat. No. 12,286,204). They're like a power-packed backup ready to jump in.

[0082] Why They're Great: Need to dodge an enemy? Batteries power thrusters instantly. Spying quietly? They run sensors with no engine rumble. They recharge from engines or solar when the ship's resting.

[0083] Details: They're high-capacity and quick, handling sudden jolts—like launching a weapon—or steady use for hours.Solar PanelsWhat They Do: These are the sun-powered helpers, grabbing free energy from daylight (U.S. Pat. No. 10,530,290). They're silent and don't use fuel.

[0085] Why They're Great: On a sunny day, the power navigation or charge batteries, saving fuel for later. Perfect for stealth—no noise, no exhaust. There are a lot of very sunny days offshore.

[0086] Details: Tough and light, they sit on the deck, adding extra watts whenever the sun's out.

[0087] This team—engines for endurance, batteries for speed, solar for stealth—covers everything. But they need a boss to keep them coordinated. That's where the smart controller comes in, now with a boost from U.S. Pat. No. 10,337,424.The Smart Controller: The Ship's Power Brain with Linear Programming

[0088] The smart controller is like the ship's robotic captain, a computer that watches fuel levels, battery charge, sunlight, and power needs, then decides who does what (U.S. Pat. Nos. 11,333,085, 12,286,204, 10,530,290, and 10,337,424). It's got some cool tricks, including linear programming from U.S. Pat. No. 10,337,424. Here's how it works:

[0089] Linear Programming: Think of planning a road trip with cash, a credit card, and coupons. You want to spend the least while still getting everywhere. Linear programming is a math trick that finds the best way to use resources (fuel, battery power, solar energy) to meet a goal—like saving fuel while keeping the ship running. The controller uses it to pick the perfect mix of power sources—like 60% natural gas engine, 30% battery, 10% solar—adjusting as things change, like clouds blocking the sun.

[0090] Expert Systems: This is like a wise old sailor in the computer, following rules like “if the battery's low, start the engine.” It's quick and reliable.

[0091] Neural Networks: This is the smart AI newbie, learning patterns—like when power spikes happen—and predicting what's next.How Linear Programming Makes it Better

[0092] U.S. Pat. No. 10,337,424 uses linear programming to manage a hybrid setup with a natural gas engine, a diesel engine, and a battery. Here's what it does:

[0093] Checks the Load: It sees how much power the ship needs—like sensors sipping or thrusters gulping.

[0094] Sizes Up the Team: It looks at fuel levels, battery charge, and how the engines are running.

[0095] Crunching Numbers: It calculates the best plan—like using more battery to save diesel—keeping power steady with the least fuel.

[0096] Swaps Plans: It shifts the engines and battery to this plan fast, keeping everything smooth.For a Drone Ship, This is AwesomeFuel Savings: It picks the cheapest mix, stretching missions longer.

[0098] Quick Changes: Sea conditions shift fast; it adjusts instantly.

[0099] No Crew Needed: It's all automatic, perfect for a solo ship.

[0100] Imagine the ship sneaking along, spying with sensors. The controller uses linear programming to run 70% battery and 30% solar—quiet and fuel-saving. Clouds roll in? It shifts to 50% natural gas engine, 50% battery, still optimized. Need speed? It taps batteries, then blends in diesel, all balanced to use the least fuel.Power Quality: why Clean Electricity is a Big Deal

[0101] Having power isn't enough—it has to be clean, like fresh water versus a muddy puddle. Dirty power has harmonics—annoying ripples that mess things up. For a drone ship, that's bad news:

[0102] Sensors Glitch: A sonar blip could miss a sub if power's choppy.

[0103] Navigation Fails: Ripples might steer the ship wrong.

[0104] Gear Breaks: Dirty power can fry circuits, and no one's there to fix it.

[0105] With no crew to troubleshoot, clean power is essential. That's where U.S. Pat. No. 10,511,169's DSAFE / DSAHF, U.S. Pat. No. 9,742,308's transformer, U.S. Pat. No. 9,401,605's harmonic distortion reducer, and now U.S. Pat. No. 8,368,246's resistive power distribution team up to keep electricity smooth and safe.The Dsafe / dsahf: the Power Cleaner

[0106] The DSAFE / DSAHF (Dynamic Switchable Active Front End / Dynamic Switchable Active Harmonic Filter) is like a power janitor, cleaning electricity and switching roles as needed (U.S. Pat. No. 10,511,169):Role 1: Active Front End (AFE)What It Does: When big systems—like thrusters—start, it grabs power from the main line, filters out harmonics, and delivers it clean.

[0108] Why It Matters: Thrusters need smooth power to work without hiccups; radar needs it to scan clearly.Role 2: Active Harmonic Filter (AHF)What It Does: When big systems are off, it cleans the whole ship's power line. A current transformer spots harmonics, and it sends out anti-harmonic currents—opposite waves that cancel the ripples, like Bose Noise Canceling Headphones but for the grid.

[0110] Why It Matters: Sensors and computers stay glitch-free and last longer.How it SwitchesThe controller decides: thrusters on, AFE mode; thrusters off, AHF mode. It's a multitasking pro.Why It's Key for Drone ShipsSaves Space: One device, two jobs—great for a small ship.Keeps It Running: Clean power prevents breakdowns with no crew to fix them.

[0114] Boosts Precision: Sensitive gear works perfectly with smooth power.

[0115] The Transformer Magic: U.S. Pat. No. 9,742,308's Phase Shifted Polygon Forked Wye Transformer

[0116] Now, let's add the star of the show: The Phase Shifted Polygon Forked Wye Transformer from U.S. Pat. No. 9,742,308. This isn't just any transformer—it's a special gadget that makes power super clean and smooth, like a top-tier water filter for electricity. Here's how it works and why it's perfect for the drone ship.

[0117] What's a Transformer? A transformer is like a power translator—it takes electricity at one voltage and changes it to another, kind of like shifting gears on a bike. On a drone ship, transformers take high-voltage power from the generators and adjust it for systems like sensors or computers. Regular transformers can let through harmonics—those pesky ripples—but this one is built to stop them cold.

[0118] How Does It Work? U.S. Pat. No. 9,742,308's transformer has a unique design: a polygon primary (the input side) and a forked wye secondary (the output side). Let's break it down simply:

[0119] Polygon Primary: Picture the input side shaped like a hexagon (a six-sided shape). This setup splits the electricity into smaller, smoother streams, reducing harmonic ripples right away. It's like dividing a big, choppy river into calm little channels.

[0120] Forked Wye Secondary: The output side looks like a “Y” with extra branches (forks). These branches balance the power and cancel out more harmonics. Imagine it as a team of filters working together to make the electricity super pure.

[0121] Phase Shifting: Here's the magic trick—it tweaks the timing of the power waves slightly. By shifting them, the harmonic ripples crash into each other and disappear, like noise-canceling headphones sending out opposite sounds to silence noise.

[0122] The patent uses two transformers like this, each shifted a bit differently—one forward, one backward. Their outputs combine into a pseudo 24-pulse output, which is a super-smooth power wave with almost no harmonics. It's like turning a bumpy road into a glassy highway for the ship's systems.Why It's Awesome for the Drone ShipSuper Clean Power: It cuts harmonics at the source, so the power is smooth before it even reaches the ship's gear. Less work for the DSAFE / DSAHF and better protection for sensitive stuff like sensors.

[0124] More Efficiency: Clean power means less energy wasted fighting harmonics, so the ship uses fuel smarter. Harmonics can be thought of as electric brakes robbing energy and causing overheating everything and everywhere they are present.

[0125] Rock-Solid Reliability: Fewer harmonics mean less stress on equipment, cutting the chance of breakdowns—huge for a ship with no crew.

[0126] Fits Right In: It's compact and efficient, perfect for the ship's tight space.

[0127] Think of it this way: if the DSAFE / DSAHF is a janitor cleaning up a mess, this transformer stops the mess from happening. It's like hosting a party where no one spills anything—everything stays perfect from the start.The Harmonic Distortion Reducer: U.S. Pat. No. 9,401,605's System for Ultra-Clean Power

[0128] But wait, there's more! Even with the transformer and DSAFE / DSAHF working hard, some super-sensitive systems—like the navigation computers or communication radios—need power that's extra clean. That's where U.S. Pat. No. 9,401,605's Harmonic Distortion Reducer comes in. It's like a super-smart power purifier that constantly checks and fixes the electricity on the lower power bus (the line feeding these delicate systems), making sure it's as smooth as glass.

[0129] Here's how it works, step by step, with all the details from the patent:

[0130] 1. The Setup: Higher and Lower Power Buses

[0131] What It Is: The ship's power system has two main lines: a higher power electrical bus (the main power line from the generators) and a lower power electrical bus (a smaller line for sensitive gear). The higher bus feeds power to the lower bus through a first transformer, which adjusts the voltage down a bit for systems that don't need the full strength.

[0132] Why It Matters: Sensitive systems like navigation or communication often need a lower voltage, but they still pick up ripples (harmonics) from the higher bus caused by big loads like thrusters or engines.

[0133] 2. The Filter. What It Does: This filter sits between the first transformer and the lower power bus. It's like a one-way gate that lets clean power flow from the higher bus to the lower bus but blocks any dirty currents (like harmonics or correction currents) from sneaking back into the main system. The patent says it “substantially attenuates” these unwanted currents, especially at harmonic frequencies (ripples higher than the normal power wave).

[0134] Details: It's designed to stop correction currents (more on those soon) from messing up the higher bus while letting the main power flow through. Think of it as a bouncer at a club—only the good stuff gets in, and trouble stays out.

[0135] Why It Matters: This keeps the main power system stable while the lower bus gets cleaned up, protecting the whole ship.

[0136] 3. The Current Transformer, What It Does: This is like a power quality detective attached to the lower power bus. It constantly checks the electricity for any ripples or bumps (called deviations from a smooth, sinusoidal voltage waveform—the perfect, wavelike shape power should have). If it spots any harmonics (those pesky ripples at higher frequencies), it generates an in-phase current that matches the power's rhythm and sends a signal to the active filter.

[0137] Details: The patent notes it senses deviations “at a harmonic frequency for the fundamental frequency” of the lower bus power (the fundamental is the main, normal wave—harmonics are the extra wiggles). It's wired to catch these issues precisely.

[0138] Why It Matters: It's the eyes of the system, spotting trouble so the active filter can fix it fast.

[0139] 4. The Active Filter, What It Does: This is the cleanup crew. It takes the signal from the current transformer and creates a special in-phase correction current—a wave that's the exact opposite of the ripples. The patent says it “opposes the deviation” in the voltage. When it injects this correction current onto the lower bus, it cancels out the bumps, making the electricity smooth again—like sending a wave that flattens ripples in a pond.

[0140] Details: It's an electronic device with a processor and computer instructions (stored on a non-transitory medium, like a memory chip) that tell it how to make this correction current. It works fast, adjusting the power to a perfect sinusoidal waveform (that smooth, ideal shape).

[0141] Why It Matters: This active cleanup ensures the sensitive systems get power without any glitches, keeping them running perfectly.

[0142] 5. The Second Transformer, What It Does: After the power on the lower bus is cleaned up, this transformer steps it up to a higher voltage for specific systems that need more juice—like a “highest voltage load” (think powerful communication gear or specialized sensors). It takes the cleaned-up lower voltage and boosts it to a “cleaned-up highest voltage,” delivering it exactly where it's needed.

[0143] Details: The patent highlights this as a key step—some loads need a higher voltage than the lower bus provides, but they still need it clean. This transformer ensures they get both.

[0144] Why It Matters: It's like a custom delivery service, making sure every system gets the right power, perfectly purified.

[0145] For the drone ship, this system is like having a dedicated team ensuring the power for the most sensitive gear—like navigation computers or radios—is always perfect. It works alongside the DSAFE / DSAHF and the transformer from U.S. Pat. No. 9,742,308, adding an extra layer of protection.

[0146] Why It's a Game-Changer. Ultra-Clean Power for Sensitive Systems: While the transformer and DSAFE / DSAHF clean the main power, this system focuses on the lower bus where the ship's brain lives—navigation, communication, sensors. It's like giving those systems their own private, VIP power supply.

[0147] Stops Harmonics in Their Tracks: By actively sensing and correcting ripples at harmonic frequencies (higher than the normal wave), it ensures the power is as smooth as possible, preventing glitches or damage.

[0148] Keeps the Main System Safe: The filter blocks correction currents from leaking back to the higher bus, so the whole system stays stable.

[0149] Perfect for No-Crew Ops: With no one to fix things, this automatic cleanup keeps the ship running without a hitch.

[0150] Imagine the ship's navigation system plotting a course through stormy seas. Even tiny power ripples could throw off its calculations, sending the ship off track. But with this harmonic distortion reducer, the power is so clean that the navigation computer works flawlessly, keeping the ship on course no matter what.

[0151] The Resistive Power Distribution Magic: U.S. Pat. No. 8,368,246's System for Safer, Smarter Power Delivery

[0152] Now, let's add the final piece of the puzzle: U.S. Pat. No. 8,368,246's Resistive Power Distribution System. This isn't just about making power clean—it's about making it safe and smart, especially when things go wrong, like a short circuit or a power surge. For a drone ship with no crew to handle emergencies, this system is like having a built-in firefighter that stops electrical disasters before they start.

[0153] Here's how it works, step by step, with all the details from the patent:1. The Setup: Low and High Resistivity Sections

[0154] What It Is: The power distribution system uses a special cable or bus (the main power line) that has two parts: a low resistivity section (which lets electricity flow easily, like a wide highway) and a high resistivity section (which resists the flow a bit, like a narrow road).

[0155] Details: The low resistivity section is made of materials that conduct electricity well, like copper, while the high resistivity section is made of materials that resist electricity more, like certain alloys. The patent says the high resistivity section has “substantially higher resistivity” than the low section—about twice as much. This can be a bus (a flat metal bar) or a cable (a bundle of wires), or even a mix of both.

[0156] Why It Matters: Normally, power flows through the low resistivity section to the ship's systems. But if there's a fault—like a short circuit—the high resistivity section steps in to save the day.2. How it Handles FaultsWhat It Does: If there's a short circuit (like wires touching by accident), a huge surge of electricity (called fault current) tries to rush through the system, which can cause fires or damage. But in this system, the fault current has to pass through the high resistivity section first.

[0158] Details: The high resistivity section acts like a speed bump—it slows down the fault current by making it harder for electricity to flow. This causes a voltage drop, which reduces the amount of current that reaches the fault. The patent explains that this “reduces the amount of fault current available at the short circuit,” making it less dangerous.

[0159] Why It Matters: It's like having a pressure valve—if too much water tries to rush through a pipe, the valve slows it down to prevent a burst. On the drone ship, this means fewer electrical fires or blown circuits, keeping the ship safe even without a crew.3. The Smart Design: Center and Outer MembersWhat It Is: The patent describes a clever setup where the high resistivity section is in the center of the cable or bus, and the low resistivity section is on the outside, surrounding it. There's also an outer high resistivity member around everything.

[0161] Details: This is like a coaxial cable, with layers: an inner high resistivity core (the center member), a middle low resistivity layer (the outer member), and an outer high resistivity layer (the outer high resistivity member). The low resistivity outer layer carries the normal power (at 50 or 60 Hz, the standard frequencies), while the high resistivity center handles high-frequency disturbances (like harmonics or surges).

[0162] Why It Matters: This design is genius because it uses the skin effect—a property where high-frequency currents tend to flow near the surface of a conductor, while low-frequency currents flow through the whole thing. So:

[0163] Normal power (low frequency, like 50 or 60 Hz) flows through the low resistivity outer layer efficiently.

[0164] High-frequency disturbances (like harmonics above 1 kHz or fault currents) get pushed to the high resistivity center, where they're slowed down and weakened.

[0165] It's like having a road where slow cars (high-frequency disturbances) are forced to the bumpy middle, while fast cars (normal power) cruise on the smooth edges.4. Magnetic Flux PathWhat It Does: The high resistivity center and outer members also form a magnetic flux path. When current flows through the low resistivity layer, it creates a magnetic field, and this setup helps contain and manage that field, reducing interference with other systems.

[0167] Details: The patent mentions that the high resistivity members “form a magnetic flux path for magnetic flux generated by current flowing in the low frequency surrounding member.” This keeps the ship's sensitive electronics from getting scrambled by stray magnetic fields.

[0168] Why It Matters: On a drone ship packed with sensors and computers, keeping magnetic noise low is crucial for accuracy and reliability.5. Handling Different FrequenciesWhat It Does: The system is designed so that:

[0170] Low-frequency currents (like the normal 50 or 60 Hz power) flow through the low resistivity outer layer.

[0171] High-frequency currents (like harmonics above 1 kHz or fault surges) flow through the high resistivity center.

[0172] Details: The patent specifies that the low resistivity member “presents a high reactance to high frequency electrical disturbances,” meaning it resists letting those fast, spiky currents through, forcing them into the high resistivity path instead. Reactance is like a bouncer that says “no way” to high-frequency troublemakers, redirecting them to the tougher path.

[0173] Why It Matters: This setup naturally filters out high-frequency noise, making the power cleaner without extra gadgets. It's like having a built-in sieve that lets only the good stuff through.6. Reducing Fault CurrentWhat It Does: When a fault happens, the high resistivity section doesn't just slow down the current—it also reduces the total amount of current that can flow to the fault. The patent says this “reduces the amount of fault current available at the short circuit.”

[0175] Details: By increasing resistance, it limits how much current can surge through during a fault, protecting the ship's systems from overload. For example, if a short circuit happens at a connection point, the high resistivity section cuts the surge down, so it's not a full-on electrical storm.

[0176] Why It Matters: On a drone ship, where a fault could mean disaster with no crew to respond, this automatic protection is a lifesaver.

[0177] For the drone ship, this resistive power distribution system is like having a smart, self-healing power line that not only delivers electricity but also protects itself and the ship from electrical disasters.Why It's a Game-ChangerAutomatic Fault Protection: No need for a crew to flip breakers or fix shorts—the system handles it by design. If a wire shorts out, the high resistivity section reduces the damage automatically.

[0179] Cleaner Power: By routing high-frequency noise through the high resistivity path, it naturally filters the power, reducing harmonics and surges—less work for the transformer and DSAFE / DSAHF.

[0180] Space-Saving: It's built into the power distribution cables or buses, so no extra bulky equipment takes up room on the ship.

[0181] Magnetic Shielding: The design keeps magnetic fields in check, protecting sensitive electronics like sonar or communication systems from interference.

[0182] Imagine the ship's thrusters suddenly short-circuiting during a chase. Normally, that could cause a massive power surge, frying circuits or starting a fire. But with this system, the high resistivity section slows the surge, reducing the damage and keeping the ship operational. It's like having an invisible shield that activates exactly when needed.How it All Fits Together

[0183] Here's how all these amazing parts work together to make the drone ship's power system unbeatable:

[0184] 1. Power Generation: Engines (diesel or natural gas) and solar panels make electricity, with batteries storing extra for later.

[0185] 2. Smart Controller: Using linear programming (U.S. Pat. No. 10,337,424), it picks the best mix of power sources—like 60% natural gas, 40% battery—based on what the ship needs and the weather.

[0186] 3. Transformer Magic: The Phase Shifted Polygon Forked Wye Transformer (U.S. Pat. No. 9,742,308) cleans the power at the source, reducing harmonics right away.

[0187] 4. DSAFE / DSAHF: Dynamically cleans power for big systems (like thrusters) in AFE mode or the whole ship in AHF mode (U.S. Pat. No. 10,511,169).

[0188] 5. Harmonic Distortion Reducer: Specifically targets the lower power bus for sensitive systems, using active filtering to ensure ultra-clean power (U.S. Pat. No. 9,401,605).

[0189] 6. Resistive Power Distribution: Delivers power through a smart cable or bus that automatically handles faults and filters high-frequency noise (U.S. Pat. No. 8,368,246).

[0190] It's Like a Multi-layered Defense:

[0191] The transformer stops most harmonics at the source, making the power smooth from the get-go.

[0192] The DSAFE / DSAHF cleans up any leftovers for big systems or the whole ship, keeping things glitch-free.

[0193] The harmonic distortion reducer gives the sensitive systems their own super-clean power line, ensuring precision.

[0194] The resistive power distribution system ensures the power delivery is safe, efficient, and self-protecting, handling faults and noise without a hitch.

[0195] Together, these systems ensure every part of the drone ship gets the cleanest, most reliable, and safest power possible, from the thrusters to the tiniest sensor.Real-World Missions: The System in Action

[0196] Let's see how this hybrid system, with the transformer, harmonic distortion reducer, and resistive power distribution, handles three missions:Mission 1: Stealthy SurveillanceScene: The ship's creeping along an enemy coast, sensors on, staying hidden.

[0198] Power Play: The controller uses linear programming for a quiet mix—70% battery, 30% solar—to run sensors and navigation, saving fuel and avoiding engine noise. Clouds hit? It shifts to 50% battery, 50% natural gas, and is still efficient.

[0199] Transformer Magic: The transformer keeps the engine's power smooth, so sensors don't pick up harmonic noise and miss anything.

[0200] Harmonic Distortion Reducer: Ensures the sensors and navigation systems on the lower bus get ultra-clean power, so their readings are spot-on—no ripples to blur the data.

[0201] Resistive Power Distribution: If a sensor shorts out, the high resistivity section limits the fault current, preventing damage and keeping the system running quietly.

[0202] DSAFE / DSAHF: In AFE mode, it feeds clean power to sensors for clear data—no harmonic blips.

[0203] Why It Works: Stealth and efficiency keep the ship sneaky, with ultra-clean, safe power ensuring perfect sensor readings.Mission 2: High-Speed PursuitScene: An enemy boat runs; the ship chases it down.

[0205] Power Play: Linear programming starts with 80% battery for instant thrust, 20% diesel warming up. Then it shifts to 50% diesel, 50% battery, and finally 100% diesel for the long chase, all optimized to save fuel.

[0206] Transformer Magic: The transformer smooths the diesel power, preventing harmonics from slowing thrusters or causing stutters.

[0207] Harmonic Distortion Reducer: Keeps the navigation and communication systems on the lower bus glitch-free during the chase, so the ship stays on target.

[0208] Resistive Power Distribution: If a thruster wire shorts during the chase, the high resistivity section reduces the fault current, preventing a power surge from damaging the system and keeping the chase on.

[0209] DSAFE / DSAHF: In AFE mode, it delivers clean power to thrusters for a fast chase, then switches to AHF to tidy up after.

[0210] Why It Works: Speed and efficiency catch the target, with smooth, safe power keeping thrusters strong and navigation sharp.Mission 3: Weapons LaunchScene: The ship launches a recon drone, needing a big power surge.

[0212] Power Play: The controller hits 100% battery for the launch, then settles to 60% natural gas, 40% solar for tracking, saving battery—all calculated for minimal fuel use.

[0213] Transformer Magic: The transformer ensures the battery surge is clean, so the launch system works flawlessly.

[0214] Harmonic Distortion Reducer: Makes sure the drone's control systems and communication links on the lower bus get perfect power, so the launch and tracking are smooth.

[0215] Resistive Power Distribution: If there's a short circuit during launch, the high resistivity section limits the damage, keeping the ship safe and the mission on track.

[0216] DSAFE / DSAHF: In AFE mode, it gives the launch system perfect power, then switches to AHF to stabilize everything else.

[0217] Why It Works: Precision and flexibility nail the launch, with ultra-clean, safe power making it smooth.Why This System Rocks for Navy Drone Ships

[0218] This hybrid power system, with the transformer from U.S. Pat. No. 9,742,308, the harmonic distortion reducer from U.S. Pat. No. 9,401,605, and the resistive power distribution from U.S. Pat. No. 8,368,246, is a total winner—here's why:

[0219] Unbreakable Reliability: Engines, batteries, and solar offer triple backup. One fails? Another takes over. The controller swaps plans fast.

[0220] Fuel-Saving Efficiency: Linear programming uses the least fuel, stretching missions longer—perfect for far-off ops.

[0221] Full Autonomy: No crew? No worries. The controller runs it all solo with smart math and learning tricks.

[0222] Super Stealth: Batteries and solar keep it quiet and smokeless—ideal for sneaking around.

[0223] Flexibility: From low-power spying to high-power chases, it shifts instantly, with batteries for bursts and engines for stamina.

[0224] Gear-Protecting Power: The transformer, DSAFE / DSAHF, harmonic distortion reducer, and resistive power distribution keep electricity clean and safe, saving sensitive systems from damage and faults—no crew needed for repairs.The Bottom Line: a Drone Ship's Dream Power System

[0225] Navy drone ships are the future—tough, smart, and lone wolves of the sea. They need a power system that's just as awesome, and this hybrid setup from U.S. Pat. Nos. 12,286,204, 11,333,085, 10,530,290, 10,511,169, 10,337,424, 9,742,308, 9,401,605, 8,368,246, and 7,804,190 delivers. Engines, batteries, and solar panels form a killer team, guided by a smart controller with linear programming for max efficiency. The DSAFE / DSAHF keeps power clean, the Phase Shifted Polygon Forked Wye Transformer from U.S. Pat. No. 9,742,308 adds harmonic-busting magic, the Harmonic Distortion Reducer from U.S. Pat. No. 9,401,605 ensures ultra-clean power for sensitive systems, and the Resistive Power Distribution from U.S. Pat. No. 8,368,246 makes the power delivery safe and smart.

[0226] Whether it's lurking silently, chasing threats, or launching drones, this system keeps the ship powered, sneaky, and ready mission after mission. It's not just a power source; it's the beating heart of a robotic fleet, proving a navy drone ship can rule the seas, crew or no crew.

[0227] FIG. 9 depicts a schematic representations of a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention as a hybrid power generation system provided using a computer program for energy management. As shown in FIG. 9 a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention a hybrid power generation plant system is disclosed including but not limited to a processor; a hybrid power source for servicing a system load on a drone ship, the hybrid power source including but not limited to a diesel engine; a computer program comprising instructions to determine a current system load serviced by power provided from the hybrid power generation plant; instructions to determine a current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery; instructions to use linear programming to determine a more efficient operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to reduce for power consumption servicing the current system load the diesel engine and the battery; and instructions to replace the current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery with the more efficient operating state for the diesel engine and the battery. A method is disclosed for using the hybrid power generation plant system. In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, several types of stored energy DC power source batteries are added to the hybrid power generation system as another energy source to be used to provide energy.

[0228] The present invention provides a controller having a “Linear Algebra” (also referred to as herein as “Linear” and “Linear Programming”) computer program stored in a non-transitory computer readable medium, wherein the Linear Algebra, or the solutions to simultaneous non-equalities, to yield substantially improved efficiency and substantially least efficiency solutions to active Energy Management. In an illustrative embodiment of the invention a system and method provides a substantially most efficient use of the discharging of stored energy devices, diesel engine generator power and total and partial energy consumption and management. In another particular embodiment the computer program is standard or non-linear computer program comprising instructions that are executed by the processor.

[0229] In another particular illustrative embodiment, a controller having a linear programming computer program is provided for controlling the combined use of diesel engines and battery power stored in a battery for energy for management in supplying energy to a system load being serviced by a combination of the diesel engine and the battery power. The linear programming computer program determines a current system load being serviced by the diesel engines and battery power and determines a current load on each one of the diesel engine and the battery power. The linear programming system adjusts the usage of each of the diesel engine and battery power for economically servicing the system load. The linear programming system adjusts the usage of each of the diesel engines and battery power for reducing the power used for servicing the system load. A method is disclosed for using the linear programming energy management system.

[0230] A tutorial and description of the use of linear programming that can be adapted and used in one particular illustrative embodiment of the present invention is described in the book Linear programming, by Vasek Chvatal, W. H. Freeman and Company, New York, 1983. An example of how to use linear programming to find an optimal fuel mixture for each generator at each time period and under each scenario using linear programming; and repeating the previous two steps as long as the fuel mixture obtained from the linear programming solution changes is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,021,402 to Takriti, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. An example of an energy management system that uses an expert system as an energy management system uses an expert engine and a numerical solver to determine an optimal manner of using and controlling the various energy consumption, producing and storage equipment in a plant / communities in order to for example reduce energy costs within the plant, and is especially applicable to plants that require or that are capable of using and / or producing different types of energy at different times. The energy management system operates the various energy manufacturing and energy usage components of the plant to minimize the cost of energy over time, or at various different times, while still meeting certain constraints or requirements within the operational system, such as producing a certain amount of heat or cooling, a certain power level, a certain level of production, etc. in U.S. Pat. No. 9,335,748 to Francino, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention, the Load Sharing Processor, which is part of the MPS, and PMS and the hybrid power generation plant system of the present invention is programmed as an expert system to perform energy management as described herein. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention, the Load Sharing Processor of the present invention is programmed as a neural network to perform energy management as described herein. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention, the Load Sharing Processor of the present invention is programmed as a computer program to perform energy management as described herein.

[0231] In a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention, a system and method provide a solution by adding a battery to the system with a DC-AC converter to allow fast transient response of the electrical system while solely operating with the diesel engine-generator.

[0232] Diesel fuel engines run on diesel. Continuously running the diesel engine during preload both wastes diesel fuel and shortens the life of the diesel engine as it is worn out from running all the time during preload.

[0233] FIG. 9 depicts a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention as a system provided using a computer program for energy management. The computer program is a linear program. In another illustrative embodiment, the computer program can be but is not limited to a neural network and an expert system.

[0234] FIG. 10 depicts schematic representations of a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention as a hybrid diesel power generation system installed on a drone ship. Turning now to FIG. 10, in a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention, a bank of diesel engine generators 114-119 is combined with a and a pair of lithium batteries 130 and 132. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention two diesel fuel engine generators are combined with a battery. These illustrative embodiments of systems in the present invention are controlled by a processor in the hybrid power generation plant system using linear programming to achieve a high efficiency of use between the engine generators and the battery. In another embodiment a neural network is used to achieve a high efficiency of use between the engines and the battery. In another embodiment an expert system is used to achieve a high efficiency of use between the engine generators and the battery. In another embodiment a computer program is used to achieve a high efficiency of use between the diesel engine generators and the batteries.

[0235] In the hybrid diesel power generation plant for a drone ship, diesel engine generators and DC power batteries are provided to provide high power generation capacity to handle high instantaneous torque requirements and long duty cycle ongoing power requirements. In another embodiment the DC power converter to the batteries are provided with a Diesel Generator (also referred to as “Diesel Engine Generators”). The Load Sharing Processor is provided to handle load sharing between the Diesel engine 116 the DC / DC Converter Controller 124 and DC power from Batteries. The Load Sharing Processor monitors power requirements from the Load 122 and efficiently shares the load between the diesel engine generator 116-119 and the DC / DC Converter Controller 124 based on the load requirements and an efficient balance of power generation for the current load requirements based on linear programming in the Load Sharing Processor. The Load Sharing Processor provides substantially efficient use of the diesel engines 116 and the batteries attached to DC / DC Converter Controller 124 for handling base loads and loads requiring torque transients on the drone ship.

[0236] In a particular embodiment of the invention, the Load Sharing Processing uses Linear Programming stored as computer program 126 on computer readable medium 128 to read a current operating state for the diesel engines and the batteries attached to DC / DC Converter Controller 124 and determines a substantially optimally efficient operating state for efficiently producing energy to service the load at the current time. The operating state for the diesel generator includes but is not limited to engine revolutions per minute (RPM), variable frequency of a supply voltage, torque, plot point on a speed torque curve for the diesel Generator. The operating state for batteries includes but is not limited to percent charged to capacity, type of battery and plot point on a battery life to power output capacity curve for each battery type used in the system. The Load Sharing Processor achieves a substantially efficient load share by using a linear programming computer program stored on a computer readable medium to efficiently share the load of power generation to provide power a substantially reduced cost. In another embodiment of the invention, a battery is provided as another source to handle loads instantaneous torque requirements. In another embodiment of the invention, the battery is a solar power charged battery storage. In another embodiment of the invention, the batteries are provided to service high torque loads, and the diesel engines are eliminated.

[0237] In another embodiment of the invention, a combination of diesel engines and batteries are provided to handle loads. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention, a computer program is provided in a load management processor, which is in the hybrid power generation plant system. The computer program includes but is not limited to computer instructions stored in a computer readable medium that when executed by the load management processor, perform functions that are useful in accomplishing efficient load sharing between the diesel engines and batteries when servicing loads on a drone ship. In another embodiment, the computer program includes but is not limited to instructions that use linear algebra to manage the load sharing.

[0238] In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention, the computer program performs power management to efficiently provide power. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention, the computer program performs energy management. In the energy management embodiment, the computer program performs load balancing by managing energy supplied by multiple diesel engines, variable frequency electric motors, variable voltage electric motors, various energy storage devices and multiple type hybrid batteries. In another particular embodiment of the invention direct current (DC) to DC converter is provided between a bank of different type batteries to provide energy to the oil rig to efficiently handle loads during efficient load sharing between multiple gas engines, variable frequency electric motors, variable voltage electric motors, various energy storage devices and multiple types of hybrid batteries.

[0239] In another embodiment of the invention, the load management processor executes the computer program to provide a linear algebra computer program to provide efficient load sharing and energy management to efficiently manage use of the different batteries and energy sources including but not limited to variable speed engines, multiple gas engines, variable frequency electric motors, variable voltage electric motors, various energy storage devices and multiple type hybrid batteries. In another embodiment of the invention, the load management processor executes the computer program to control the diesel engines in reference to an operating state for diesel engines including but not limited to a diesel engine fuel map, the fuel map including but not limited to a speed versus torque curve for the diesel engine to dynamically determine and control an efficient fuel-air mixture provided to the diesel engine generator to control the speed of the diesel engine generator to efficiently service a load. The speed versus torque curve is used by the load management processor to determine a speed to provide a particular torque based on the speed versus torque curve during efficient dynamic load management. In a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention, the diesel engine generator provides more torque at lower speeds.

[0240] In a particular illustrative embodiment, a 50 hertz or 60 hertz diesel engine generator is slowed down to increase torque provided by the diesel engine. For example, slowing down the diesel engine to 30 hertz increases the torque provided by the diesel engine at 60 hertz. A slowdown of the diesel engine to 30 hertz is accomplished by an alternating current (AC) to AC converter that is provided to synthesize 60 hertz to 30 hertz. In another embodiment the load management processor executes the computer program provides a nonlinear programming computer program to provide efficient load sharing and energy management. The Load Sharing Processor reads the speed and torque provided by the diesel engine generators, and the batteries connected to the DC / DC convert selects a substantially optimal frequency for each of the based on the speed versus torque curve for the diesel engine generators and the batteries.

[0241] In another embodiment, the Load Sharing Processor using a neural network to read the speed and torque provided by the two diesel engine generators and the two batteries connected to the DC / DC convert selects a substantially optimal frequency for each of the based on the speed versus torque curve for the two diesel engine generators and a mix of using the batteries. In another embodiment, the Load Sharing Processor reads the speed and torque provided by the two diesel engine generators and the batteries connected to the DC / DC convert selects a substantially optimal frequency for each of the based on the speed versus torque curve for the two diesel engine generators, and the batteries to provide power to service the load 122.

[0242] Turning now to FIG. 9, FIG. 9 is a schematic block diagram a system in one particular illustrative embodiment of a Hybrid Power Generation System 100. As shown in FIG. 9, a Load Sharing Processor 110 which is part of the hybrid power generation system sends control data and receives status data on communication bus 112 to and from a Diesel Engines 114-119, Load 122, and DC / DC Converter Controller 124. The DC / DC converter controller 124 sends control data to and receives status and request data from battery 1 130 and battery 2 132. In an illustrative embodiment battery 1 is a lithium manganese cobalt battery for large transient power requirements, battery 2 is a lithium titanate battery for long life and long duty cycle. In another embodiment and a lead acid battery provides raw power at a low cost.

[0243] A Power Bus 120 receives power from Diesel Engine 116, Gas Engine Generator 118 on a Generator Power Bus 140, and DC power from DC / DC Converter Controller 124 from Batteries 1 through N over Battery Power Bus 142.

[0244] A computer program 126 including but not limited to computer instructions stored in a Computer Readable Medium 128 are executed by the Load Sharing Processor 110. In a particular illustrative embodiment the Hybrid Diesel Power Generation System 100 Load Sharing Processor 110 controls the Hybrid Power Generation System to dynamically and efficiently provide power to meet load requirements for the Load 122.

[0245] In another particular illustrative embodiment, the Load Sharing Processor system generates a power impulse command to, for example, provide a torque impulse to an equipment as described in US. U.S. Pat. No. 9,365,265 by John B. Janik, issued on May-25-2016 and entitled “Hybrid Winch with Controlled Release and Torque Impulse Generation”. In one particular embodiment, a torque profile is selected to apply a sharp rise in power provided by the Hybrid Power Generation System to generate a sharp rise in power as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 415,626 filed Jan. 25, 2017, by Janik and entitled “System and method for controlling a jack up rig” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety and an anchor handling winch to rapidly increase power applied to the load. The stored battery backup power is applied to achieve a more rapid rise in energy supplied, available power generated, and impulse torque exerted by the equipment than possible using the diesel generator power by itself.

[0246] In another embodiment a user input from user input device 125 selecting a torque profile is received by the Load Sharing Processor. In another particular illustrative embodiment, a neural network is provided as a computer program in the computer readable medium that is executed by the Load Sharing Processor to monitor the operating states of the batteries, engines and generator discussed above and energy supplied to the equipment during operations of raising and lowering jack up rig legs and punch through testing and tension and torque applied to the anchor cable and winch during successful anchor setting operations. The neural network monitors the operating states for of all energy sources during the operations and stores them in the computer readable medium. The neural network stores the monitored operating states of the batteries, engines and generators discussed above and provided in the Hybrid Power Generation System which supplies to the equipment during raising and lowering jack up rig legs and punch through testing and tension and torque settings and applies the stored energy settings to the during raising and lowering jack up rig legs and punch through testing and tension and torque applies to the anchor cable and winch during successful anchor setting operations. In another particular illustrative embodiment, an expert system is provided as a computer program in the computer readable medium that is executed by the Load Sharing Processor to monitor energy supplied to the due to changes in loading of the drone ship. The expert system stores the monitored tension and torque settings and applies the stored tension and torque settings to the load during operations.

[0247] In a particular illustrative embodiment a system is disclosed including but not limited to a processor in data communication with a non-transitory computer readable medium; a hybrid power source for servicing a system load, the hybrid power source comprising a diesel engine and a battery; a computer program comprising instructions stored in the non-transitory computer readable medium that are executed by the processor, the computer program comprising, instructions determining a current system load serviced by power provided from the hybrid power source; instructions to determine a current operating state for the natural gas engine, the diesel engine and the battery; instructions to use linear programming to determine a new operating state for the natural gas engine, the diesel engine and the battery to reduce power consumption servicing the current system load the diesel engine and the battery; and instructions to replace the current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to the new operating state for the diesel engine and the battery. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention the operating state comprises a load on the diesel engine, speed of the diesel engine and air fuel mixture supplied to the diesel engine, wherein the operating state further comprises torque of the diesel engine. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention the operating state comprises a load on the natural gas engine, speed of the natural gas engine and air fuel mixture supplied to the natural gas engine, wherein the operating state further comprises torque of the natural gas engine. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention the operating state comprises a load on the battery. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention the computer program is a linear program. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention the computer program is an expert system. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention the computer program is a neural network.

[0248] In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention a method is disclosed including but not limited to determining using a computer program a current system load serviced by power provided from a hybrid power source for servicing a system load, the hybrid power source comprising a diesel engine and a battery; determining a current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery; determining using linear programming to a new operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to reduce for power consumption servicing the current system load the diesel engine and the battery; and replacing the current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to the new operating state for the diesel engine and the battery. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention the operating state comprises a load on the diesel engine, speed of the diesel engine and air fuel mixture supplied to the diesel engine, wherein the operating state further comprises torque of the diesel engine. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention the operating state comprises a load on the battery. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention the computer program is a linear program. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention the computer program is an expert system. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention the computer program is a neural network.

[0249] In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention a computer readable medium is disclosed containing instructions that are executed a processor in data communication with a non-transitory computer readable medium to control a hybrid power source for servicing a system load, the hybrid power source comprising a diesel engine and a battery, the computer program comprising instructions stored in the non-transitory computer readable medium that are executed by the processor, the computer program including but not limited to instructions to cause the load processor to determine a current system load serviced by power provided from the hybrid power source; instructions for the processor to determine a current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery; instructions for the processor to use linear programming to determine a new operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to reduce power consumption servicing the current system load the diesel engine and the battery; and instructions for the processor to replace the current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to the new operating state for the diesel engine and the battery. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention in the computer readable medium, the operating state comprises a load on the diesel engine, speed of the diesel engine and air fuel mixture supplied to the diesel engine, wherein the operating state further comprises torque of the diesel engine. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention in the computer readable medium, the operating state comprises a load on the battery. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention in the computer readable medium, the computer program is a linear program. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention in the computer readable medium, the computer program is an expert system.

[0250] The present invention can be realized in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. In a specific embodiment, a system according to the present inventions can be realized in a centralized fashion in one computer system, or in a distributed fashion where different elements are spread across several interconnected computer systems. Any kind of computer system or other apparatus adapted for carrying out the methods and inventions described herein may be used for purposes of the present inventions. A typical combination of hardware and software could be a general purpose computer system with a computer program that, when loaded and executed, controls the computer system such that it carries out the methods and inventions described herein.

[0251] The figures herein include block diagram and flowchart illustrations of methods, apparatus(s) and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present inventions. It will be understood that each block in such figures, and combinations of these blocks, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such as the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus may be used to implement the functions specified in the block, blocks, or flow charts. These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable medium or memory that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable medium or memory produce an article of manufacture including instructions which may implement the function specified in the block, blocks, or flow charts.

[0252] The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide steps for implementing the functions specified in the block, blocks, or flow charts.

[0253] Those skilled in the art should readily appreciate that programs defining the functions of the present inventions can be delivered to a computer in many forms, including but not limited to: (a) information permanently stored on non-writable storage media (e.g., read only memory devices within a computer such as ROM or CD-ROM disks readable by a computer I / O attachment); (b) information alterably stored on writable storage media (e.g., floppy disks and hard drives); or (c) information conveyed to a computer through communication media for example using wireless, baseband signaling or broadband signaling techniques, including carrier wave signaling techniques, such as over computer or telephone networks via a modem, or via any of networks.

[0254] The term “executable” as used herein means that a program file is of the type that may be run by the Load Sharing Processor 110. The term processor covers all processors described herein, including but not limited to processors in the PMS, the MPS, the Load Sharing Processor. The processor can be one processor or separate processors dedicated to functions performed by PMS, MPS and the Load Sharing Processor. The terms Load Sharing Processor, PMS, MPS all refer to a processor that exists in the hybrid diesel power generation system along with a computer program stored in a non-transitory computer readable medium, that can be one processor or separate processors dedicated to functions performed by PMS, MPS and the Load Sharing Processor. In specific embodiments, examples of executable programs may include without limitation: a compiled program that can be translated into machine code in a format that can be loaded into a random access portion of the Computer Readable Medium 128 and run by the Load Sharing Processor 110; source code that may be expressed in proper format such as object code that is capable of being loaded into a random access portion of the Computer Readable Medium 128 and executed by the Load Sharing Processor 110; or source code that may be interpreted by another executable program to generate instructions in a random access portion of the Computer Readable Medium to be executed by the Load Sharing Processor 110.

[0255] An executable program may be stored in any portion or component of the Computer Readable Medium including, for example, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard drive, solid-state drive, USB flash drive, memory card, optical disc such as compact disc (CD) or digital versatile disc (DVD), floppy disk, magnetic tape, or other memory components.

[0256] The Computer Readable Medium may include both volatile and nonvolatile memory and data storage components. Volatile components are those that do not retain data values upon loss of power. Nonvolatile components are those that retain data upon a loss of power. Thus, the Computer Readable Medium may comprise, for example, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard disk drives, solid-state drives, USB flash drives, memory cards accessed via a memory card reader, floppy disks accessed via an associated floppy disk drive, optical discs accessed via an optical disc drive, magnetic tapes accessed via an appropriate tape drive, and / or other memory components, or a combination of any two or more of these memory components. In addition, the RAM may comprise, for example, static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), or magnetic random access memory (MRAM) and other such devices. The ROM may comprise, for example, a programmable read-only memory (PROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or other like memory device.

[0257] In a specific embodiment, the Load Sharing Processor may represent multiple Load Sharing Processors and / or multiple processor cores, and the Computer Readable Medium may represent multiple Computer Readable Mediums that operate in parallel processing circuits, respectively. In such a case, the local interface may be an appropriate network that facilitates communication between any two of the multiple Processors, between any processor and any of the Computer Readable Medium, or between any two of the Computer Readable Mediums, etc. The local interface may comprise additional systems designed to coordinate this communication, including, for example, performing load balancing. The Load Sharing Processor may be of electrical or of some other available construction.

[0258] Although the programs and other various systems, components and functionalities described herein may be embodied in software or code executed by general purpose hardware as discussed above, as an alternative the same may also be embodied in dedicated hardware or a combination of software / general purpose hardware and dedicated hardware. If embodied in dedicated hardware, each can be implemented as a circuit or state machine that employs any one of or a combination of a number of technologies. These technologies may include, but are not limited to, discrete logic circuits having logic gates for implementing various logic functions upon an application of one or more data signals, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) having appropriate logic gates, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other components. Such technologies are generally well known by those skilled in the art and, consequently, are not described in detail herein.

[0259] Flowcharts and Block Diagrams of FIG. 1 show the functionality and operation of various specific embodiments of certain aspects of the present inventions. If embodied in software, each block may represent a module, segment, or portion of code that comprises program instructions to implement the specified logical function(s). The program instructions may be embodied in the form of source code that comprises human-readable statements written in a programming language or machine code that comprises numerical instructions recognizable by a suitable execution system such as a Load Sharing Processor in a computer system or other system. The machine code may be converted from the source code, etc. If embodied in hardware, each block may represent a circuit or a number of interconnected circuits to implement the specified logical function(s).

[0260] Although the flowchart and block diagram of FIG. 11 show a specific order of execution, it is understood that the order of execution may differ from that which is depicted. For example, the order of execution of two or more blocks may be scrambled relative to the order shown. Also, two or more blocks shown in succession in FIG. 1 may be executed concurrently or with partial concurrence. Further, in some embodiments, one or more of the blocks shown in FIG. 1 may be skipped or omitted. In addition, any number of counters, state variables, warning semaphores, or messages might be added to the logical flow described herein, for purposes of enhanced utility, accounting, performance measurement, or providing troubleshooting aids. It is understood that all such variations are within the scope of the present inventions.

[0261] Any logic or application described herein that comprises software or code can be embodied in any non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as computer-readable medium, for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system such as, for example, a Load Sharing Processor in a computer system or other system. In this sense, the logic may comprise, for example, statements including instructions and declarations that can be fetched from the computer-readable medium and executed by the instruction execution system. In the context of the present inventions, a “computer-readable medium” may include any medium that may contain, store, or maintain the logic or application described herein for use by or in connection with the instruction execution system.

[0262] The computer-readable medium may comprise any one of many physical media such as, for example, magnetic, optical, or semiconductor media. More specific examples of a suitable computer-readable medium would include, but are not limited to, magnetic tapes, magnetic floppy diskettes, magnetic hard drives, memory cards, solid-state drives, USB flash drives, or optical discs. Also, the computer-readable medium may be a random access memory (RAM) including, for example, static random access memory (SRAM) and dynamic random access memory (DRAM), or magnetic random access memory (MRAM). In addition, the computer-readable medium may be a read-only memory (ROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or other type of memory device.

[0263] The Load Sharing Processor may further include a network interface coupled to the bus and in communication with the network. The network interface may be configured to allow data to be exchanged between computers and other devices attached to the network or any other network or between nodes of any computer system or the video system. In addition to the above description of the network, it may in various embodiments include one or more networks including but not limited to Local Area Networks (LANs) (e.g., an Ethernet or corporate network), Wide Area Networks (WANs) (e.g., the Internet), wireless data networks, some other electronic data network, or some combination thereof. In various embodiments, the network interface 159 may support communication via wired or wireless general data networks, such as any suitable type of Ethernet network, for example; via telecommunications / telephony networks such as analog voice networks or digital fiber communications networks; via storage area networks such as Fiber Channel SANs, or via any other suitable type of network and / or protocol.

[0264] The Load Sharing Processor may also include an input / output interface coupled to the bus and also coupled to one or more input / output devices, such as a display, a touchscreen, a mouse, or other cursor control device, and / or a keyboard. In certain specific embodiments, further examples of input / output devices may include one or more display terminals, keypads, touchpads, scanning devices, voice or optical recognition devices, or any other devices suitable for entering or accessing data by one or more computers. Multiple input / output devices may be present with respect to a computer or may be distributed on various nodes of computer system, the system and / or any of the viewing or other devices shown in FIG. 1. In some embodiments, similar input / output devices may be separated from the Load Sharing Processor and may interact with the Load Sharing Processor or one or more nodes of computer system through a wired or wireless connection, such as through the network interface.

[0265] Turning now to FIG. 10, FIG. 10 depicts schematic representations of a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention as a hybrid diesel power generation system installed on a drone ship. A shown in FIG. 10, batteries 130, 132 and charger 138 along with generators 114-119, are connected to the hybrid diesel power generation system. The bus 120 runs to propulsion system 123 that turns propeller 203. A ship service switch board 202 with active harmonic filters 204 is provided on the drone ship as described herein.

[0266] Turning now to FIG. 11, FIG. 11 is a flow chart of functions performed by the hybrid diesel power generation system installed on a drone ship by a processor computer program. The computer program starts at 301 and monitors a current load at 302. The processor monitors the power available at 304. The processor connects a most efficient combination of batteries and diesel generators to the bus for the current load. At 308 the processor performs power demand limiting by VFD processing, described herein, until the additional diesel generator power is on the bus. At 310 the processor connects additional batteries that are connected to the bus during high demand loads. At 312 the processor removes diesel generator power from the bus when the load demand is low.

[0267] It is to be understood that the inventions disclosed herein are not limited to the exact details of construction, operation, exact materials, or embodiments shown and described. Although specific embodiments of the inventions have been described, various modifications, alterations, alternative constructions, and equivalents are also encompassed within the scope of the inventions. Although the present inventions may have been described using a particular series of steps, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the scope of the present inventions is not limited to the described series of steps. The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. It will be evident that additions, subtractions, deletions, and other modifications and changes may be made thereunto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the inventions as set forth in the claims set forth below. Accordingly, the inventions are therefore to be limited only by the scope of the appended claims. None of the claim language should be interpreted pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 112(f) unless the word “means” is recited in any of the claim language, and then only with respect to any recited “means” limitation.

[0268] In an illustrative embodiment of the invention, a hybrid diesel electric drone ship is provided with a hybrid power generation plant rated at 4,165 kW. In the hybrid power generation power plant, power is generated by 6 diesel generators each rated at 600 kW at 0.8 PF at 690 VAC. In addition, the hybrid power generation plant provides the hybrid diesel electric drone ship with 565kWh of stored energy from two on board lithium ion batteries. The stored energy in the lithium ion batteries enables the hybrid diesel electric drone ship to operate with a lower number of diesel generators running, for example, 2 of 6 diesel generators when operating under a reduced load. The lithium ion batteries also act as a backup power supply when there is a sudden demand for power in the hybrid diesel electric drone ship. (See U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,802,679B2 1 and 9,923,370B2 2). During a sudden demand, the lithium ion batteries provide additional power to the hybrid diesel electric drone ship until the remaining 4 of the 6 generators are started up and connected to the main propulsion switchboard. The main propulsion switchboard is controlled using computer programs described herein, which in part use systems and methods for mechanical load balancing using generator droop frequency based on motor load feedback, better described in the Electronic Power Design U.S. Pat. Nos. 10,337,424 and 10,541,536 B2. In one embodiment of the invention, the main propulsion for the drone ship is provided by two 1,865kW, Azimuthing Z Drive propulsion units, which will each be powered by variable frequency drives.

[0269] Ship service power is derived from the main propulsion switchboard through 690:120 / 208 VAC ship service transformers. The ship service switchboard also provides active harmonic filters that will provide clean power for sensitive electronics onboard the vessel such as radars, other navigation devices, third party equipment, hotel load etc. These Active Harmonic Filters shall be of the type described in the Electronic Power Design U.S. Pat. No. 9,401,605 B2. Specification of each major component of the hybrid power generation plant are disclosed herein.

[0270] In a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention, the hybrid power generation plant includes but is not limited to a marine main propulsion generator control and distribution switchboard, referred to herein as a main propulsion switchboard or “MPS” for the control and protection of six (6) 600 kW, 690 Volt AC, 3-phase, 3-wire, 0.8 PF, 750 kVA diesel engine generator sets with automatic parallel operation. The MPS also has two (2) 690 Volt AC, 2500 Amp AC, 3 phase, 60 Hz tin-plated copper main buses rated for 65 kAIC (Bus “A”& Bus “B”) separated by a tie breaker. The engine generators can be powered by other hydrocarbon fuels, such as gasoline or natural gas. The MPS provides parallel capable operation and control of the six diesel generators. The MPS has two incomer breakers—one per bus that tie the main bus to battery inverters attached to the two batteries. The MPS, located in an Engine Room, is skid mounted. The MPS is designed and provided as described in this Specification. The switchboard is constructed by a UL-891 certified facility.

[0271] The propulsion system vendor / integrator wiring diagrams and shop drawings of the switchboard are provided prior to fabrication. The wiring diagrams and shop drawings shall clearly show design, construction material, finish installation, front layout, point to point wiring diagrams, material list, mounting details, and label plate list including floaters for terminal blocks. The manufacturer provides three complete sets and one wiring diagrams and shop drawings of as-built drawings of the switchboard and cut sheets of the components to the contractor for delivery to the Client. Switchboard components listed in this specification and all others required for a complete system are provided.

[0272] Factory tests are performed to show the full functionality of the hybrid power generation plant which includes but is not limited to a power management system (PMS) and a main propulsion switchboard (MPS) automation to control all generators and the distribution of power in an automatic mode. Rubber matting with dielectric resistance are provided in front of all switchboards. A propulsion vendor / integrator performs Short Circuit and Device Evaluation Studies, a Protective Device Coordination Study, and a Harmonic Study. The studies include all major AC electrical power distribution systems aboard the vessel.

[0273] An MPS enclosure is provided as a drip proof enclosure having a dead front, all steel construction. All operating controls and indicators are front mounted and are fully accessible by hinged panels. All other components are accessible by removable front, side, and rear panels. Construction allows for cables entering the bottom of the MPS. The MPS base is appropriately sized openings for possible cable entrance. All front instrument panels are formed on all sides and hinged. Front panels covering molded case distribution circuit breakers are formed, hinged, and bolted. Side and rear panels are flat sheets, bolted on. All formed and bolted panels are fastened with center seeking, knurled head, captive screws, and floating nut block assemblies. All formed and hinged front panels are fastened with open and turn flush clamps. All hinged panels are equipped with door positioners for holding the panel in an open position during access to internally mounted components. Non-conducting grab rails are provided across the entire front of the switchboard.

[0274] Bus bars are provided and are made of commercially pure copper. All bus bars are tin, or silver plated over their entire length. Bolts, washers, and nuts used to maintain bus contact shall be of corrosion resistant material or appropriately plated. All bolts in bus connections shall be torque wrench tightened to an appropriate uniform value for each size bolt and marked across all joints with permanent marker or paint pen. The mechanical strength, bracing and supports of the bus is designed for a symmetrical RMS short circuit current of 65 kA.

[0275] All electrical components are selected to operate satisfactorily in a 45° C. ambient temperature and shall be as described below.Circuit breakers are quick-make, quick-break, trip free, with tripping mechanisms capable of safely opening the circuit they protect while subjected to the maximum fault current. All poles are opened simultaneously by a common trip mechanism. Trip elements or sensors are calibrated or ambient compensated for operation in a 45° C. ambient temperature, or properly de-rated in accordance with the circuit breaker manufacturer's instructions for use in ambient temperatures above 40° C. Breaker frame size, nominal trip setting, and de-rated trip setting shall be shown on the main propulsion switchboard design drawings, as-built electrical one-line diagram, and on the engraved breaker ID plate attached to the front of the switchboard. All circuit breakers are mounted in such a manner that the breakers may be removed from the front without disconnecting line or load bus or power cable terminations.

[0276] The circuit breakers are removable draw-out air circuit breakers or power circuit breakers, with motorized spring charged operators and adjustable electronic trip logic units, rated at 65 kAIC minimum. The circuit breakers accept remote open and close signals from the PMS or switchboard mounted manual actuation switches, and are equipped with auxiliary contacts, under voltage trips, and shunt trips to provide a functional and operable system. Each shall be provided with means to lock in the open position. All rotary type instruments, control, and circuit breaker switches are oil-tight and clearly labeled for function. All under-voltage trip (UV) devices are 24 VDC from a battery source, to prevent tripping during power transfer operations.

[0277] Instruments are constructed to minimize damage from dust or moisture. Instrument fuses are of the non-renewable cartridge type. The instrument fuses are accessible from the front of the switchboard through the hinged panels containing the instruments and controls they protect. Instrument and control wire are a minimum of 14 AWG, type SIS, except for electronic component connections, which are 18 AWG, flame retarding, flexible switchboard wire, or equal. Each wire end shall be fitted with a permanent sleeve type wire number and terminated with vinyl insulated compression lugs, applied with a closed cycle tool, where component terminations permit. Wires terminating in DIN Rail type screw compression terminal blocks have compression end sleeves over the conductor for protection and strength. Spring cage or push in wire capture type terminals is preferred over screw down type connections if available. Switchboard wiring is run neatly and properly supported. Grommets are provided to protect wiring where it passes through metal panels. Components required to be interconnected with external equipment wired to barrier type terminal boards that are readily accessible and clearly marked. The secondary of all current transformers are wired to shorting type terminal blocks. Wiring duct, cable tie mounting devices, clamps or clips are permanently fastened. Any adhesives used are epoxy type. Foam or double sided tape is specifically prohibited.

[0278] Control components for each generator control compartment (6 each):Qty. 1 Siemens or Schneider power circuit breaker, 630 AF, draw out, electrically operated, with Shunt Trip (ST) or Undervoltage Trip (UVT), 4a and 4b auxiliary contacts, long time, short time, and instantaneous trip, and bell alarmQty. 1 Set of potential transformers with primary and secondary fuses, as required

[0280] Qty. 3 Current transformers, as

[0281] required Qty. 1 Control power

[0282] transformer

[0283] Qty. 1 Generator “heater on” indicator light

[0284] Qty. 1 Generator heater switch

[0285] Qty. 1 Generator heater relay

[0286] Qty. 1 Circuit breaker control switch, three position (open, close, and neutral)

[0287] Qty. 1 Circuit breaker Closed indicator light

[0288] Qty. 1 Circuit breaker Open indicator light

[0289] Qty. 1 Fault / tripped indicator light

[0290] Qty. 1 Automatic voltage regulator, mounted and wired

[0291] Qty. 1 Manual voltage control, mounted and wired

[0292] Qty. 1 Woodward EasyGen 3500 series digital generator protection and load sharing relay

[0293] Qty. 1 Basler DECS-100 voltage regulator, mounted and wired

[0294] Qty. 1 Voltage control switch, raise-off-lower, spring return to off, or a voltage adjusting potentiometer depending on the type of voltage regulator

[0295] Qty. 1 Digital governor control module, Woodward 2301E, mounted and wired, if required for mechanical engines

[0296] Qty. 1 Speed control switch or potentiometer depending on the governor interface provisions

[0297] Qty. 1 Emergency Stop push / pull button

[0298] Qty. 1 Power Available Light

[0299] Qty. 1 Generator Auto Start Ready Light Control components for each Battery Inverter connection cabinet (2 each):

[0300] Qty. 1 Siemens or Schneider Generator power circuit breaker, 2500 AF, draw out, electrically operated, with Shunt Trip (ST) or Undervoltage Trip (UVT), 4a and 4b auxiliary contacts, long time, short time, and instantaneous trip, and bell alarm

[0301] Qty. 1 Set of potential transformers with primary and secondary fuses, as required

[0302] Qty. 3 Current transformers, as

[0303] required Qty. 1 Control power

[0304] transformer

[0305] Qty. 1 Circuit breaker Closed indicator light

[0306] Qty. 1 Circuit breaker Open indicator light

[0307] Qty. 1 Tripped indicator light

[0308] Qty. 1 Metering device

[0309] Qty. 1 Power Available Light

[0310] Qty. 1 Battery Auto Ready

[0311] Light Qty. 1 Battery Alarm

[0312] Light

[0313] Qty. 1 Battery Fault Light

[0314] Components for Bus Tie and Grounding Sections (1 each):

[0315] Qty. 1 Siemens or Schneider Bus tie circuit breaker, 2500 AF, draw out, electrically operated, with ST or UVT, 4a and 4b auxiliary contacts, long time, short time and instantaneous trip and a bell alarm

[0316] Qty. 1 Circuit breaker control switch, three position (open, close, and neutral)

[0317] Qty. 1 Set of circuit breaker status indication lights

[0318] Qty. 1 Set of digital bus ground detection per bus (“A” and

[0319] “B”) Qty. 2 Sets of bus CT's

[0320] Qty. 2 Sets of bus potential transformers (“A” and “B”)

[0321] Qty. 1 Woodward LS-6 load sharing unit with display

[0322] Qty. 1 Set of bus voltage surge suppression systems per bus

[0323] Components for Port Distribution Section (1 each):

[0324] Qty. 1 2500 AF Siemens or Schneider port propulsion motor drive feeder circuit breaker, manually operated, draw out with ST or UVT, 2a and 2b auxiliary contacts, and thermal magnetic trip.

[0325] Qty. 1 250 AF Siemens or Schneider Ship service transformer T-1 feeder circuit breaker, manually operated, plug-in with ST or UVT, 4a and 4b auxiliary contacts, and thermal magnetic trip.

[0326] Qty. 2 250 AF Siemens or Schneider Spare Breaker

[0327] Components for Starboard Distribution Section (1 each):

[0328] Qty. 1 2500 AF Siemens or Schneider starboard propulsion motor drive feeder circuit breaker, manually operated, draw out with ST or UVT, 4a and 4b auxiliary contacts, and thermal magnetic trip.

[0329] Qty. 1 250 AF Siemens or Schneider Ship service transformer T-2 feeder circuit breaker, manually operated, plug-in with ST or UVT, 2a and 2b auxiliary contacts, and thermal magnetic trip.

[0330] Qty. 2 250 AF Siemens or Schneider Spare Breakers

[0331] Power Management System (PMS):

[0332] Qty. 1 Programmable Logic Controller, (PLC), Siemens S7 PLC based

[0333] Qty. 1 7″ Siemens HMI touchscreen

[0334] Qty. 1 PLC Fail Light

[0335] Qty. 1 Local Mode Select Switch, Manual—Auto

[0336] The PMS as part of the hybrid power generation plant contains one or more processors that controls the six propulsion generators and have breakers to connect the battery inverters to the main buss. The switchboard is arranged for automatic and manual parallel operation of propulsion generators in any combination. A processor in the Power Management System (PMS), in automatic mode, monitors and controls the power available to the propulsion main motors, decide on the most efficient combination of battery / generators automatically for the current load based on power demand. Generators start priority switches and controls are provided for each generator to determine a start order of generators when the PMS is in control. A remote indication in the Pilot House show the current status of each power source as “connected,”“standby,” or “manual.”Load Monitoring and Limiting

[0337] The switchboard MPS provides a processor and a computer program including computer instructions stored in a non-transitory computer readable medium, wherein the processor executes the computer program and performs automatic load monitoring and provides operator warnings via switchboard indicators and bridge indicators whenever an operating state of the state propulsion generators reach 85% (adjustable) full combined output. As part of the MPS computer program, overload / blackout of the propulsion generators are avoided through automatic propulsion main motor power demand limiting by the VFDs, until additional power has been brought onto the MPS automatically by the PMS, or load has been reduced.

[0338] The batteries storage of power in the hybrid power generation plant is primarily intended to act similar to the “spinning reserve” capacity that is be provided by generators that are connected to the bus. In one operating scenario, the hybrid drone ship operates with only two of six supplied generators running and are connected to the bus along with the battery inverters. If a situation arises where the hybrid power generation plant provides full power to the propulsion motors, the battery bank and the inverters provide the remaining power needed to provide full power to drone ship propulsion thrusters for a period of 90 seconds during which the PMS starts some or all of the remaining generators and connects them to the main bus.

[0339] The battery and inverter system are also used in peak sharing mode while in operation to reduce the run time on the diesel generators. The battery and inverter system is also used when the hybrid drone ship is docked at ports to reduce emission and fuel consumption.

[0340] Specification for Battery Banks (2 Each):

[0341] 283 kWh storage capacity with a 4C discharge rate for a period of 90 seconds

[0342] Battery voltage ranging from 640 VDC to 1100 VDC with 880 VDC nominal voltage

[0343] Battery Management System (BMS) that dictates charge / discharge rates and acts as a monitoring and protection device for the battery.

[0344] CAN, Profibus, Modbus or similar standards for communication between the BMS and the vessels power management system.

[0345] Ventilation for hot gases in case of thermal run away of any of the battery cells.Battery Inverter Specifications

[0346] The battery inverters for this vessel are split into one port side battery inverter and one starboard side battery inverter. The battery inverters are liquid cooled.

[0347] Specification for Battery Inverters (2 each):

[0348] 1900 kW AC power at 690 VAC

[0349] DC voltage rating range of 640 VDC-1100 VDC

[0350] VACON NX, Avid Extreme AFE Drive technology, or equal

[0351] LCL filters / Isolation transformers

[0352] The inverter package should be able to charge and discharge the battery bank and mode of operation and power level shall be dictated by the vessel's power management system

[0353] Profibus or Profinet Communication to the Pms.

[0354] Two separate and enclosed rooms are provided to house the port and starboard battery banks and inverters. These enclosed rooms are at least 108 inches wide, 96 inches deep and 80 inches tall. The room is insulated. Air conditioning is provided to keep the enclosed rooms cooler than the adjacent engine room temperature. The air conditioning is not intended to remove the heat loss from battery banks and inverters, but to prevent condensation on the liquid cooled equipment. The battery and inverter vendor provide ambient heat loss data to properly size this air conditioner.Propulsion Variable Frequency Drives

[0355] The propulsion main motors are controlled a processor as part of the hybrid power generation plant through variable frequency drives (VFDs). Each VFD is a 6-pulse two (2) quadrant, reversing, non-regenerative, variable torque, AC variable frequency drive. The drive is rated for 690 volts AC, 3-phase, 60Hz input and 1875 kW minimum, 2000 amps AC continuous and at 110 % for 1 minute.

[0356] The VFD is liquid cooled and has the following features:

[0357] Qty. 1 VACON NX, Avid Extreme AC Drive technology, or equal

[0358] Qty. 1 3-phase AC line reactor

[0359] Qty. 1 6-Pulse Diode Front End (DFE) converter / rectifierty. 1 Inverter section

[0360] Qty. 1 450 kW Brake Chopper circuit for regenerative current

[0361] Qty. 1 Dynamic braking resistor, stainless steel enclosed, 50% duty cycle forced ventilation, remotely mounted by others

[0362] Each VFD shall be complete with the following:

[0363] Qty. 1 Set of IP-22 enclosures.

[0364] Qty. 1 Operator Keypad, door mounted

[0365] Qty. 1 PROFIBUS or PROFINET communication card

[0366] Qty. 1 Emergency stop pull-button

[0367] VFD Propulsion Control shall consist of the following:

[0368] As part of the processor in the hybrid power generation plant run marine specific propulsion control software, as part of the hybrid power generation plant wherein the control software is provided as a computer program stored in a non-transitory computer readable medium, including but not limited to the following features:

[0369] Redundant PROFIBUS or PROFINET communication

[0370] Fast acting characteristics to adapt propeller load to diesel engine capability to prevent possible black outs

[0371] Characteristics to reduce propeller speed during emergence out of water, and to smooth load increases when returning into water

[0372] Speed mode control for maneuvering for immediate response

[0373] Step-less switching from speed control to power control mode depending on vessel speed to simplify operation and ensure best power station efficiency

[0374] No limitation in power drawn from gensets depending on sea and operational conditions, i.e. each genset can be loaded 100% and ensures an efficient utilization of the power station

[0375] Handling of conventional propellers with two-rotational directions

[0376] Standardized interface to propeller controlDynamic Load Limitation (DLL)

[0377] As part of the hybrid power generation plant computer program, a processor in the hybrid power generation plant executes a computer program that provides DLL control that limits the power of the heavy load drive according to actual generator capacity. This means the drive is not seen as a heavy consumer and can start the main motors with only two generators running. As part of the hybrid power generation plant the internal control system in the VFD limits its power consumption to the actual generator maximum load capability. The PMS starts an additional generator and then the hybrid power generation plant computer program in the VFD control increases power up to the new limit, and so on. In case of a trip of one of the generators, the remaining generator(s) can be overloaded. The DLL system detects this and limits the power consumption of the propulsion system. The part of the hybrid power generation plant computer program in the VFD responds sufficiently fast so that a “Black-Out” of the remaining generators is avoided.

[0378] The DLL system is part of the VFD and works independently of but as part of the PMS, all of which being a part of the hybrid diesel power generation system processor. No additional external control signals are needed other than the signals of the generator power and, if necessary, the status of the bus-tie breakers.

[0379] A ship service (SS) switchboard as part of the hybrid power generation plant computer program provides for control and distribution of 3-phase, 208 / 120 VAC electrical power for the vessels non-propulsion equipment. The 208 / 120 VAC power is derived from the main switchboard (port and starboard) through two ship service transformers, each rated at 162.5 kVA or from a shore power supply. The switchboard provides for non-parallel operation of either ship service transformer or the shore power feed. The ship service switchboard includes but is not limited to a phase monitoring system that indicates a phase rotation of the shore power connection and prevents a shore power breaker from being closed if the shore power phase rotation is incorrect.

[0380] Active harmonic filters are installed either inside the ship service switchboard or remotely mounted and connected to the switchboard. The active harmonic filter is sized to maintain a harmonic content on the ship service switchboard under ABS approved limits when both propulsion motors are operating at rated power. The active harmonic filter employs EPD patented sensing technology for optimal sizing.

[0381] The ship service switchboard, located on the equipment skid, is mounted and sway braced to the surrounding structure. The switchboard is constructed by a UL-891 certified facility. Verification of certification shall be provided to the Client. The switchboard is installed in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard 46 CFR 111.30-1. The switchboard manufacturer provides wiring diagrams and shop drawings of the switchboard to the Client prior to fabrication. The drawings shall clearly show design, construction material, finished installation, front layout, point to point wiring diagrams, material list, mounting details, and label plate list including floaters for terminal blocks. The manufacturer shall provide to the Client three complete sets, as well as electronic sets in . PDF format, of as-built drawings of the switchboard and cut sheets of the components. Switchboard components listed in this specification and all others required for a complete system shall be provided. The switchboard is demonstrated during onsite tests at the manufacturer's facility, or Contractor's facility to fully provide operating logic that accomplishes the functionality and operation specified in the below paragraphs.

[0382] The switch service switchboard is drip proof enclosed, having a dead front, and all steel construction. All operating controls and indicators shall be front mounted and fully accessible by hinged panels. All other components shall be accessible by removable front, side, and rear panels. Construction allows for cables entering the top or bottom of the switchboard. The switchboard frame shall be constructed of cold rolled formed steel and / or structural steel angles bolted together into a rigid framework. The bottom shall be completely open for possible cable entrance. All front instrument panels are formed on all sides and hinged. Front panels covering molded case distribution circuit breakers shall be formed and bolted. Side and rear panels are flat sheets and bolted on. All formed and bolted panels shall be fastened with center seeking, knurled head, captive screws, and floating nut block assemblies. All formed and hinged front panels are fastened with open and turn flush clamps. All hinged panels shall be equipped with door positioners for holding the panel in the open position during access to internally mounted components. Non-conducting grab rails are provided across the entire front of the switchboard.

[0383] Bus bars are provided and are made of commercially pure copper and sized in accordance with the table in the 2002 revision of IEEE-45. All bus bars are made of tin or silver plated over their entire length. Bolts, washers, and nuts used to maintain bus contact are made of corrosion resistant material or appropriately plated. All bolts in bus connections are torque wrench tightened to an appropriate uniform value for each size bolt. After final tightening, each bus bolt, nut, and washer is marked with a line going across them to an adjacent area of the bus with a permanent marker or paint pen. The mechanical strength, bracing and supports of the bus shall be designed for a symmetrical RMS short circuit current of 25 kA.

[0384] All electrical components are selected to operate satisfactorily in a 45° C. ambient temperature and shall be as described below. Circuit breakers are quick-make, quick-break, trip free, with tripping mechanisms capable of safely opening the circuit they protect while subjected to the maximum fault current of 25 kA. All poles shall be opened simultaneously by a common trip mechanism. Trip elements or sensors in the Engine Room shall be calibrated or ambient compensated for operation in a 45° C. ambient temperature, or properly de-rated in accordance with the circuit breaker manufacturer's instructions for use in ambient temperatures above 40° C. Breaker frame size, nominal trip setting, and de-rated trip setting shall be shown on the switchboard design drawings, as-built electrical one-line diagram, and on the engraved breaker ID plate attached to the front of the switchboard. The ship service transformer feed and shore power feed circuit breakers shall be mounted in such a manner that the breakers may be removed from the front without disconnecting line or load bus or power cable terminations through use of draw-out breakers or heavy duty plug-in bases for molded case circuit breakers.

[0385] Switchboard Components: The following description of switchboard components provided within various compartments is for guidance only and does not dictate the final design and arrangement. It is the manufacturer's responsibility to furnish all components required for a complete and workable system. Switchboard manufacturers shall provide sufficiently detailed descriptive information about the switchboard including all drawings, parts lists, operating description, and other documentation to obtain regulatory and owner approvals.

[0386] Control components for each transformer monitoring compartment:

[0387] Qty. 1 Set of potential transformers with primary and secondary fuses, as required

[0388] Qty. 3 Current transformers, as required

[0389] Qty. 1 Control power transformer

[0390] Qty. 1 Transformer feed multifunction meter, SATEC PM130EH Plus Power Meter

[0391] Qty. 1 Circuit breaker control switch, three position (open, close, and neutral)

[0392] Qty. 1 Circuit Breaker Closed indicator light

[0393] Qty. 1 Phase Sequence / Balance Monitor (PSBM), shore power feed only Qty.

[0394] 1 Power Available Light

[0395] Qty. 1 Ground Detection Panel

[0396] This switchboard shall control two (2) ship service transformers and one (1) shore power feed. The switchboard shall be interlocked so that only one transformer or the shore power source may feed the switchboard at any time. It is electrically interlocked to provide OPEN TRANSITION transfers only between shore power supply and ship service transformer supply, and from one ship service transformer to the other.

[0397] Two ship service transformers each rated at 162.5 kVA, 690 VAC to 120 / 208 VAC 3 phase 60 Hz shall be provided. The transformers are mounted in the engine / propulsion room and should be able to operate at rated current at 45 C ambient temperature.

[0398] The active harmonic is used to maintain the harmonic content on the ship service switchboard under ABS approved limits.

[0399] The Active Harmonic Filter has the following features:

[0400] Qty. 1 Comsys, AccuSine or other equivalent manufacturer active harmonic filter with sensor-less technology sized for a 162.5 kVA transformer.

[0401] Qty. 1 Normally closed fail safe warning system that triggers if the filter fails or if the harmonic content on the switchboard rises above allowed limits.

[0402] A 13 in to 15 in HMI digital display with built-in dimmer control shall be mounted in the Pilot House side console to display all propulsion related information, as well as all monitoring alarm and control system information from the rest of the vessel. The display is a touch screen type, with paged displays, and virtual control buttons or switches for remote control of specified functions.

[0403] Systems are displayed in clear and simple Client approved MIMIC bus arrangements. MIMIC bus is a one-line diagram on the face of the Switchboard showing the principal connections and electrical components of the system. Monitored points, devices and systems shall have the data collected in local 1 / 0 panels located below the main deck. The collected data shall be distributed to the Pilot House HMI display through a communication link. A slave alarm display is located in the Engine Room, and shall only have display functions, with no control functions other than alarm acknowledgement and silence.

[0404] Independent propulsion VFD emergency shutdown switches shall be provided at the side console. Other controls and displays shall be provided as required by rules and regulations. All meters, displays and panels shall be drop in type, for installation in shipyard provided consoles.

[0405] The hybrid power generation plant provides a trailer segregated into two rooms. The room partition at the rear of the trailer is called the “transformer room” and contains the large four-winding transformer positioned over the axles. The forward room called the “switchgear room” contains the medium voltage switchgear and other controls.

[0406] The transformer room will be well ventilated using filtered louvers in the side walls. The minimum square inches of louver area will be specified by EPD. The requirement for louver space is expected to be no less than 5700 square inches. The louvered openings shall be provided with solid hinged metal doors to cover the openings for transit. The doors must include provisions to latch open while in operation and latch closed while in transit.The approximate dimensions of the transformer are 105″L×70″W×105″H. The approximate weight is 24,000 lbs. The floor level of the transformer room will be recessed as low as possible in order to provide a minimum of 110″ internal floor to internal ceiling height. The transformer will require a 120V power circuit installed by the trailer manufacturer from the 240 / 120V Square-D panelboard in the switchgear room. A communication cable is installed from the transformer to the PLC control panel in the switchgear room.

[0407] The rear of the trailer has a cargo doors with a minimum height of 107″. EPD intends to install micro switches inside the cargo doors to signal the open / closed status of the doors. The control wiring for the micro switches from the rear doors to the PLC control cabinet in the switchboard room will be installed by the trailer manufacturer. The doors require provisions for mechanical locks.

[0408] In addition to the main transformer, the room will contain three (3) smaller neutral forming transformers. The approximate dimensions and weight for each are 22″×20″×15″ at 250 lbs. Three (3) grounding resistors will be in this room as well, each with approximate dimensions of 29″×21″×16″. EPD will design a structure or sheet metal enclosure to stack these items.

[0409] The hybrid power generation plant further provides a switchgear room which is climate controlled with a 3 ton wall mounted Bard A / C unit. The exterior and interior walls of this room shall be well insulated. The partition wall separating the transformer room from the switchgear room will not contain a door but shall be internally framed for a future door. This wall shall have an observation window, approximately 6″×18″ or nearest standard size, in order to view into the transformer room while standing in the switchgear room.

[0410] The medium voltage switchgear lineup inside this room will be approximately 89″L×48″0×89″H. The weight will be approximately 3000 lbs. In addition to the medium voltage lineup, this room will contain the 24V power distribution, 240 / 120V panel, transfer switch, and a PLC control panel. The approximate weight of the additional panels is 1500 lbs.

[0411] A 240 / 120V, 30 circuit Square-D panelboard is provided by the trailer manufacturer. EPD will prepare a circuit diagram for this system in collaboration with the trailer manufacturer. The 240 / 120V system will feed into a battery backed up 24V DC system provided by EPD. The battery backed 24V DC power will be distributed to the switchgear controls and to select lighting circuits. The remaining lighting circuits will be powered by non-battery backed up power. The lights and lighting wiring is to be provided and installed by the trailer manufacturer.**

[0412] In a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention a hybrid power generation plant system for a drone ship is disclose, the system comprising a plurality of diesel engines; an electrical bus switchably attached to the plurality of diesel engines, a batteries switchably attached to the electrical bus; a load comprising a drone ship propulsion load attached to the electrical bus; a hybrid power source for servicing a system load, the hybrid power source comprising a diesel engine and a battery; a processor the executes a computer program of instructions stored in a non-transitory computer readable medium; a computer program comprising instructions stored in the non-transitory computer readable medium that are executed by the processor, the computer program comprising, instructions determining a current system load serviced by power provided from the hybrid power source; instructions to determine a current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery; instructions to determine a new operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to reduce power consumption servicing the current system load the diesel engine and the battery; and instructions to replace the current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to the new operating state for the diesel engine and the battery.

[0413] In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, the operating state comprises a load on the battery, a load on the diesel engine, speed of the diesel engine and air fuel mixture supplied to the diesel engine and torque of the diesel engine. In another illustrative embodiment of the invention the computer program further comprises instructions to determine when the load requires additional power; instructions to connect the batteries to the bus for a period of 90 seconds when the load requires additional power; and instructions to connect additional generators to the bus during the 90 seconds.

[0414] In another illustrative embodiment of the invention the computer program further comprises instructions to limit power demand until the additional generators are connected to the bus. In another illustrative embodiment of the invention the computer program further comprises instructions to add batteries to the bus during high power demand from the load. In another illustrative embodiment of the invention the computer program further comprises instructions to remove generators from the bus during low power demand from the load. In another illustrative embodiment of the invention the computer program is a neural network.

[0415] In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, a method is disclosed comprising determining using a computer program a current system load serviced by power provided from a hybrid power source for servicing a system load, the hybrid power source comprising a diesel engine and a battery; determining a current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery; determining a new operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to reduce for power consumption servicing the current system load the diesel engine and the battery; and replacing the current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to the new operating state for the natural gas engine, the diesel engine and the battery.

[0416] In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, a method is disclosed wherein the operating state comprises a load on the diesel engine, speed of the diesel engine and air fuel mixture supplied to the diesel engine, wherein the operating state further comprises torque of the diesel engine. In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises determining when the load requires additional power; connecting the batteries to the bus for a period of 90 seconds when the load requires additional power; and connecting additional generators to the bus during the 90 seconds.

[0417] In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises limiting power demand until the additional generators are connected to the bus. In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises removing generators from the bus during low power demand from the load. In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, the computer program is a neural network. In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, a hybrid diesel power generation system is disclosed comprising a computer readable medium contain instructions that are executed a processor in data communication with a non-transitory computer readable medium to control a hybrid power source for servicing a system load, the hybrid power source comprising a diesel engine and a battery, the computer program comprising instructions stored in the non-transitory computer readable medium that are executed by the processor, the computer program comprising, instructions to cause the load processor to determine a current system load serviced by power provided from the hybrid power source; instructions for the processor to determine a current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery; instructions for the processor to determine a new operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to reduce power consumption servicing the current system load the diesel engine and the battery; and instructions for the processor to replace the current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to the new operating state for the natural gas engine, the diesel engine and the battery.

[0418] In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, the operating state comprises a load on the diesel engine, speed of the diesel engine and air fuel mixture supplied to the diesel engine, wherein the operating state further comprises torque of the diesel engine.In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, the computer program further comprises instructions to determine when the load requires additional power; instructions to connect the batteries to the bus for a period of 90 seconds when the load requires additional power; and instructions to connect additional generators to the bus during the 90 seconds.

[0419] In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, the computer program further comprises instructions to limit power demand until the additional generators are connected to the bus. In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, the computer program further comprises instructions to remove generators from the bus during low power demand from the load. In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, the computer program is an expert system.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0020]A detailed description will now be provided. The purpose of this detailed description, which includes the drawings, is to satisfy the statutory requirements of 35 U.S.C. § 112. For example, the detailed description includes a description of inventions defined by the claims and sufficient information that would enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the inventions. In the figures, like elements are generally indicated by like reference numerals regardless of the view or figure in which the elements appear. The figures are intended to assist the description and to provide a visual representation of certain aspects of the subject matter described herein. The figures are not all necessarily drawn to scale, nor do they show all the structural details, nor do they limit the scope of the claims.

[0021]Each of the appended claims defines a separate invention which, for infringement purposes, is recognized as including equivalents of the various elements or lim...

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application is a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 19 / 098,392 filed Jul. 15, 2024, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to unmanned or autonomous maritime vessels (“drone ships”) and more particularly to an integrated electrical power generation, propulsion, and distribution system designed to tolerate harmonic interference from electric motor drives while maintaining automation and communication integrity.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Modern unmanned vessels also referred to herein as “drone ships” rely on complex automation, sensor arrays, and communication networks to operate autonomously. These systems are highly sensitive to electrical waveform integrity. Traditional marine vessels often use diesel engines to power electrical generators; however, gas turbines present a lighter and faster alternative for propulsion and power generation.

[0004] In such configurations, variable frequency drive (VFD) electric thrusters—used for precise maneuvering via bow or stern thrusters—can introduce harmonic distortions in the vessel's electrical system. These distortions can interfere with automation control, sensor accuracy, and data transmission reliability. As shipboard electrical loads increase and reliance on electric propulsion and autonomy grows, a harmonic-tolerant architecture becomes vital.

[0005] Unmanned vessels, such as large surface drone ships, demand robust and adaptable power generation systems to support propulsion, auxiliary systems, and sensitive onboard equipment. These vessels typically employ a gas turbine as the primary power source for propulsion, supplemented by secondary power sources to meet diverse electrical demands. Secondary power may be provided by a generator, which could be either an independent diesel engine-generator or a generator driven by a Power Take-Off (PTO) shaft mechanically coupled to the gas turbine. Each configuration presents unique challenges, particularly in maintaining power quality for sensitive loads, such as sensors, computers, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), weapon systems, and communication networks.

[0006] In systems with an independent diesel generator, harmonic distortion from the generator, battery chargers, or inverters can degrade power quality, risking malfunctions in sensitive equipment. However, when the generator is PTO-driven, an additional layer of complexity arises: the generator's frequency varies directly with the gas turbine's rotational speed (RPM). As the turbine's RPM fluctuates—akin to “the dog wagging the tail”—the PTO-driven generator's output frequency becomes unstable, exacerbating electrical problems for connected loads, including variable frequency drives (VFDs) for thrusters and critical autonomous systems. Traditional power systems lack integrated solutions to address both harmonic interference and frequency variability in a hybrid configuration adaptable to either generator type.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The invention provides an integrated system for propulsion and electrical power generation on a drone ship using a gas turbine, optionally with a battery backup system, where electric power may be generated via a power take-off (PTO) shaft or an auxiliary diesel generator. The system includes harmonic-filtering and waveform-conditioning elements designed to ensure the reliability of automation and communication systems in the presence of harmonic interference from variable frequency drives operating electric thrusters.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The drawings presented herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the scope of the claims. Rather, the drawings are intended to help enable one having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the claimed inventions. The drawings are drawn to scale.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the unmanned vessel drone ship propulsion and power architecture, including the gas turbine, PTO shaft, optional propeller, and electrical distribution system;

[0010] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the harmonic-tolerant power distribution system with filters and isolation elements;

[0011] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram showing the interaction between VFD-controlled loads and the control and mitigation systems;

[0012] FIG. 4 is a mechanical schematic of the PTO shaft coupling between the gas turbine and generator;

[0013] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the hybrid system with an independent diesel generator, highlighting power flow and harmonic mitigation;

[0014] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of the hybrid system using a PTO-driven generator with a power electronics module for frequency regulation;

[0015] FIG. 7 is a schematic of the electrical bus architecture featuring harmonic filtering and an optional dual-bus setup for sensitive equipment;

[0016] FIG. 8 is a control architecture diagram of the Power Management System (PMS) showing communication with generation sources, battery, and thruster controls;

[0017] FIG. 9 depicts a schematic representations of a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention as a hybrid power generation system provided using a computer program for energy management;

[0018] FIG. 10 depicts schematic representations of a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention as a hybrid diesel power generation system installed on a drone ship; and

[0019] FIG. 11 is a flow chart of functions performed by the hybrid diesel power generation system installed on a drone ship.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] A detailed description will now be provided. The purpose of this detailed description, which includes the drawings, is to satisfy the statutory requirements of 35 U.S.C. § 112. For example, the detailed description includes a description of inventions defined by the claims and sufficient information that would enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the inventions. In the figures, like elements are generally indicated by like reference numerals regardless of the view or figure in which the elements appear. The figures are intended to assist the description and to provide a visual representation of certain aspects of the subject matter described herein. The figures are not all necessarily drawn to scale, nor do they show all the structural details, nor do they limit the scope of the claims.

[0021] Each of the appended claims defines a separate invention which, for infringement purposes, is recognized as including equivalents of the various elements or limitations specified in the claims. Depending on the context, all references below to the “invention” may in some cases refer to certain specific embodiments only. In other cases, it will be recognized that references to the “invention” will refer to the subject matter recited in one or more, but not necessarily all, of the claims. Each of the inventions will now be described in greater detail below, including specific embodiments, versions, and examples, but the inventions are not limited to these specific embodiments, versions, or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the inventions when the information in this patent is combined with available information and technology. Various terms as used herein are defined below, and the definitions should be adopted when construing the claims that include those terms, except to the extent a different meaning is given within the specification or in express representations to the Patent and Trademark Office (PTO). To the extent a term used in a claim is not defined below or in representations to the PTO, it should be given the broadest definition persons having skill in the art have given that term as reflected in at least one printed publication, dictionary, or issued patent.

[0022] Certain specific embodiments of methods, structures, elements, and parts are described below, which are by no means an exclusive description of the inventions. Other specific embodiments, including those referenced in the drawings, are encompassed by this application and any patent that issues therefrom.

[0023] The present invention provides a hybrid power generation system that seamlessly integrates a gas turbine, a configurable secondary generator (independent or PTO-driven), and a battery system, all managed by an advanced Power Management System (PMS). The system incorporates harmonic mitigation technologies and, for PTO-driven generators, specific frequency regulation mechanisms to ensure stable, clean power across all operating conditions, making it ideal for unmanned vessel applications.

[0024] The system architecture is modular and allows for hybrid combinations of propulsion (gas turbine, electric) and generation (PTO or diesel). VFD-induced harmonics are mitigated using active or passive filters, isolation transformers, and / or waveform correction software embedded in smart inverters or power conditioning units. The system monitors total harmonic distortion (THD) and dynamically adjusts filters or reroutes power flows to protect critical systems.

[0025] The system includes but is not limited to a primary propulsion system comprising a gas turbine jet engine and / or propeller; a power generation subsystem coupled to the gas turbine via a PTO shaft, or alternatively powered by a diesel generator; an onboard power distribution network supporting high-sensitivity automation, control, and communication subsystems; one or more electric motor-driven thrusters (bow / stern) controlled by VFDs; a Harmonic suppression and waveform conditioning modules integrated with the power distribution system to ensure operational integrity; and optional large-scale battery system for hybrid operation and load balancing.

[0026] The invention anticipates variations in configuration (e.g., absence of battery or inclusion of separate diesel generation) and provides architectural flexibility (“wiggle room”) to maintain power quality under all operating modes.

[0027] The hybrid power generation system is engineered for large, unmanned surface vessels and comprises the following components: a Gas Turbine: The primary power source, delivering mechanical energy for propulsion and, optionally, driving a PTO shaft for auxiliary power generation. A Secondary Generator: Configurable in one of two illustrative embodiments: 1) Independent Diesel Engine-Generator: A standalone unit supplying auxiliary power to the electrical bus, operating at a fixed frequency but potentially introducing harmonics. 2) PTO-Driven Generator: Mechanically coupled to the gas turbine via a PTO shaft, with its electrical output frequency varying proportionally to the turbine's RPM, necessitating additional stabilization.

[0028] Battery System: Managed by a Battery Management System (BMS), it stores energy and provides rapid power for peak demands or backup scenarios. Electrical Bus: Distributes power from the gas turbine, secondary generator, and battery system to all vessel loads, including propulsion, thrusters, and sensitive equipment.

[0029] Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs): Control thrusters, requiring stable voltage and frequency for optimal performance. Sensitive Equipment: Encompasses sensors, computers, PLCs, weapon systems, and communication networks, all susceptible to harmonic distortion and frequency fluctuations.

[0030] Power Management System (PMS). The PMS is the system's autonomous control hub, performing the following functions: Load Distribution: Allocates power demands across the gas turbine, secondary generator, and battery system based on real-time conditions. Source Optimization: Prioritizes power sources to maximize efficiency and minimize fuel consumption or emissions. Power Quality Management: Monitors and mitigates harmonics across the bus and, for PTO-driven generators, regulates frequency to maintain stability. Fault Response: Detects anomalies (e.g., excessive harmonics or frequency drift) and adjusts operations or switches power sources as needed.

[0031] Secondary Generator Configurations. The system's flexibility in generator configuration is a key feature: Independent Diesel Engine-Generator: Operates at a fixed frequency, typically 50 or 60 Hz, independent of the gas turbine. Primary challenge: Harmonic distortion from the generator or associated power electronics, addressed via mitigation strategies.

[0032] PTO-Driven Generator: Mechanically driven by the gas turbine via a PTO shaft, with output frequency directly tied to turbine RPM. Additional challenge: Frequency variability (e.g., ranging from 40-70 Hz or more) as turbine speed fluctuates, creating instability for VFDs and sensitive loads. Solution: A frequency regulation mechanism stabilizes the output.

[0033] Harmonic Mitigation Harmonic distortion, present in both generator configurations, arises from the secondary generator, battery chargers, inverters, or VFDs. To protect sensitive equipment, the system employs: Active Harmonic Filters: Connected to the electrical bus, these detect and neutralize harmonic distortions in real time. Isolation Transformers: Provide electrical isolation for sensitive loads, reducing noise transmission.

[0034] Dual-Bus Option: An optional configuration separates sensitive equipment onto a dedicated bus with enhanced filtering, ensuring clean power delivery. These measures are critical for both generator types but especially pronounced in PTO-driven systems, where frequency variability can amplify harmonic effects.

[0035] Frequency Regulation for PTO-Driven Generators In the PTO-driven configuration, the generator's frequency varies with the gas turbine's RPM, posing significant challenges for electrical loads. For example, as turbine speed increases or decreases, the generator's output frequency may shift unpredictably, disrupting VFD operation and sensitive equipment. To address this “dog wags the tail” effect, the system includes but is not limited to a Power Electronics Module: Rectifies the PTO-driven generator's variable-frequency AC output to DC and Inverts the DC back to stable, fixed-frequency AC (e.g., 60 Hz) suitable for the bus.

[0036] Synchronization: The PMS ensures the inverted output aligns with the bus frequency, enabling seamless integration with other power sources. Dynamic Adjustment: The module adapts to real-time turbine speed changes, maintaining consistent power delivery. This regulation mechanism ensures that the PTO-driven generator provides reliable power, even under variable operating conditions, mitigating the additional electrical problems identified by the user.

[0037] Battery System Functionality. The battery system, controlled by the BMS, enhances system performance by: Peak Load Support: Supplies power during high-demand events (e.g., thruster activation), reducing reliance on generators. Emergency Backup: Maintains critical system operation during generator transitions or failures.

[0038] Harmonic-Aware Operation: Charges during low-harmonic periods, as directed by the PMS, to minimize interference.

[0039] VFDs and Thruster Integration: The system powers VFD-controlled thrusters, which are sensitive to power quality. To ensure reliability: Filtered Supply: Dedicated harmonic filters protect the VFD supply lines. Stable Power: The PMS coordinates generator and battery outputs to deliver consistent voltage and frequency, critical for thruster performance.Autonomous Design for Unmanned Operation: Designed for unmanned vessels, the system operates without human intervention: Real-Time Monitoring: The PMS tracks power quality metrics (harmonics, frequency, voltage) continuously.

[0040] Self-Correction: Automatically adjusts operations to address detected issues. Remote Capability: Optionally interfaces with a Human-Machine Interface (HMI) for remote oversight, though fully functional autonomously.

[0041] FIG. 1 is a Schematic of unmanned vessel (Drone Ship) Propulsion and Power Architecture as a high-level schematic illustrating the propulsion and electrical power flow in an unmanned drone ship. This includes a gas turbine propulsion source, optional propeller interface, PTO shaft linkages to the generator, and an onboard power distribution system.

[0042] Key Components: Gas turbine (primary propulsion); Optional propeller or waterjet interface; PTO shaft linking turbine to generator; Battery storage (optional hybrid mode); Electrical bus connected to ship wide systems. Automation / sensor networks. VFD-controlled thrusters (bow / stern). Notations: Arrows for power flow. Rectangular blocks for major components. Dotted connections for optional systems (e.g., diesel generator, battery).

[0043] FIG. 2 is a Block Diagram of Harmonic-Tolerant Power Distribution System is a schematic depiction of a simplified functional block layout of the ship's power architecture emphasizing harmonic tolerance and filter placement. The Key Components can include but are not limited to an Electrical generator (PTO or diesel): Electrical bus; Harmonic filter block; Isolation transformers; Sensitive equipment load block (e.g., PLCs, comms, navigation); PMS block; and Battery system. Notations: Arrows show direction of power flow. Wavy lines represent harmonic filters; Dashed lines for control signaling.

[0044] FIG. 3 is a Flow Diagram Showing Interaction Between VFD Loads and Control Systems is a process flow diagram detailing how VFD-controlled thrusters interact with automation systems and power control routines. Key Components: VFDs for electric thrusters; PMS. Harmonic suppression modules; Real-time monitoring system; Feedback loop to PMS for frequency / harmonic compensation. Notations: Circular flow arrows indicating feedback control. Blocks representing control logic (e.g., PID, waveform correction)

[0045] FIG. 4 depicts a PTO Shaft Coupling Between Gas Turbine and Generator in a mechanical schematic illustrating how the gas turbine's rotational output is transferred via a PTO shaft to an auxiliary generator. Key Components can include but are not limited to Gas turbine shaft output; PTO coupling; Vibration isolation (if applicable); Generator input shaft; and Mechanical enclosure. Notations: Rotational arrows showing torque direction; Cross-section view showing shaft alignment; and Labels denoting RPM-dependent coupling

[0046] Turning now to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a Block diagram of the hybrid system with an independent diesel generator, showing power flow and harmonic mitigation. A block diagram showing the hybrid power architecture with a gas turbine, an independent diesel generator, a battery system, and a central Electrical Bus. Key Components can include but are not limited to a Gas turbine (primary propulsion); Independent diesel generator (auxiliary power); Battery system with BMS; Electrical bus connecting all power sources. A Power Management System (PMS) box, with arrows indicating control of generator dispatch and load balancing. Harmonic filters connected to buses; Isolation transformers upstream of sensitive equipment; Sensitive loads (e.g., PLCs, sensors, weapons systems). VFD-controlled thrusters. Notations: Solid arrows indicate power flow; Dashed arrows indicate control signals from PMS; Wavy symbols at harmonic filter locations.

[0047] Turning now to FIG. 6, FIG. 6 is a block diagram of the hybrid system with a PTO-driven generator, including the power electronics module for frequency regulation. Description: Block diagram emphasizing the configuration where the secondary generator is PTO-driven by the gas turbine and includes a Power Electronics Module for frequency stabilization. Key Components: Gas turbine with mechanical shaft connected to: PTO-driven generator. Arrow showing variable-frequency AC output. Power Electronics Module can include but is not limited to a Rectifier converting AC to DC; Inverter converting DC back to fixed-frequency AC; Electrical bus; Battery system with BMS; PMS coordinating all power sources; Sensitive loads and VFDs; Harmonic filters as in FIG. 5. Notations: Label “Variable frequency AC” at generator output. Label “Fixed frequency AC” after inverter. Lightning bolt symbol over electronics module to denote regulation. Control arrows from PMS to inverter, generator, and battery.

[0048] Turning now to FIG. 7, FIG. 7 is an electrical bus schematic with harmonic filters and optional dual-bus configuration for sensitive equipment. Description:Detailed electrical bus schematic showing how harmonic filters and optional dual-bus architecture protect sensitive systems. Key Components: Central electrical bus; Harmonic filters branching off main bus lines.

[0049] Optional second bus (Dual-Bus Configuration). Labeled “Clean Bus” for sensitive loads. Connected via isolation transformer from main bus. Sensitive loads (e.g., labeled “Sensors,”“Comms,”“PLC”). General loads (e.g., labeled “Thrusters,”“Battery Chargers”). PMS box overseeing distribution. Notations: Filter symbols on both buses; Transformer icon between main bus and clean bus. Labels indicating “Filtered Power Path” and “Unfiltered Load Path.”

[0050] Turning now to FIG. 8 shows a PMS Control Architecture Functional block diagram of the Power Management System (PMS) showing how it interfaces with all major components for autonomous control. The PMS can include but is not limited to a PMS central block. Control lines to: Gas turbine; Diesel generator or PTO-driven generator (selectable); Battery system; VFDs; Power Electronics Module (if present). Inputs: Real-time metrics: frequency, voltage, harmonic distortion; Load demand signals. Outputs: Dispatch commands; Fault correction actions. Synchronization commands.

[0051] Optional connection to remote Human-Machine Interface (HMI). Notations: Bidirectional arrows between PMS and controlled components; “Auto Mode” and “Remote Mode” labeled near PMS block; Alert icon indicating anomaly detection and corrective logic.

[0052] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an unmanned vessel including: a gas turbine engine for propulsion; a power generation system driven by a power take-off (PTO) shaft coupled to the gas turbine engine, or alternatively by a diesel generator; a power distribution network supplying power to automation, sensors, and communication networks aboard the ship; at least one variable frequency drive (VFD)-controlled electric thruster; and a harmonic suppression subsystem configured to mitigate electrical waveform distortions caused by the VFD-controlled thruster, thereby protecting operational integrity of the automation and communication networks.

[0053] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an unmanned vessel, wherein the power generation system includes a high-speed generator mechanically linked to the gas turbine via a PTO shaft.

[0054] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an unmanned vessel, further including a battery energy storage system operable to support propulsion or balance electrical loads.

[0055] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an unmanned vessel, wherein the harmonic suppression subsystem includes at least one of: passive harmonic filters; active harmonic compensation units; isolation transformers; and software-controlled waveform correction modules.

[0056] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an unmanned vessel, wherein the control system monitors total harmonic distortion and triggers mitigation routines dynamically to protect mission-critical systems.

[0057] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an unmanned vessel, further including a modular control architecture allowing reconfiguration of power sources and propulsion modes based on mission requirements or fault conditions.

[0058] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a hybrid power generation system for unmanned vessels, including: a gas turbine as the primary power source; a secondary generator configurable as either an independent diesel engine-generator or a PTO-driven generator mechanically coupled to the gas turbine; a battery system for energy storage and peak load support; and a Power Management System (PMS) configured to autonomously manage power distribution and mitigate harmonic distortion.

[0059] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a system, wherein the secondary generator is PTO-driven, further including a power electronics module to convert variable-frequency AC output to stable, fixed-frequency AC.

[0060] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a system, further including active harmonic filters and isolation transformers to protect sensitive equipment from electrical noise. In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a system, wherein the PMS maintains stable power for VFD-controlled thrusters under variable operating conditions.

[0061] Imagine a navy drone ship—a sleek, crewless vessel packed with sensors, radars, and thrusters, all working together to complete missions like spying on enemies, chasing targets, or launching weapons. These robotic ships are the Navy's future, built for tasks like long patrols or combat support, all without a single sailor aboard. To make this work, they need a power system that's reliable, efficient, and smart enough to keep everything running smoothly, no matter what the challenge.

[0062] This hybrid power system from ElectronicPowerDesign.com, who is the world leader in delivery of hybrid ship power systems, is like a dream team of power sources—engines, batteries, solar panels, a special transformer, a harmonic distortion reducer, and a resistive power distribution system—working together to keep the ship going. It combines ideas from U.S. Pat. Nos. 12,286,204, 11,333,085, 10,530,290, 10,511,169, 10,337,424, 9,742,308, 9,401,605, 8,368,246, and 7,804,190 creating a powerhouse perfect for a navy drone ship. In this guide, we'll break down what makes these ships tick, why power is their lifeline, and how this system, boosted by the transformer, harmonic distortion reducer, and resistive power distribution, makes their electricity cleaner, more reliable, and safer than ever. We'll use simple language and fun analogies so anyone can understand!What's a Navy Drone Ship, and why Does Power Matter?

[0063] A navy drone ship is like a floating robot—autonomous, unmanned, and packed with gadgets to tackle naval jobs. Think of it as a high-tech toolbox with:

[0064] Sensors: Sonar, radar, and cameras to spot threats or map the ocean.

[0065] Communication Gear: Radios and satellites to send updates back to base.

[0066] Navigation Systems: Computers and thrusters to steer without a captain.

[0067] Propulsion: Engines or motors to move across the water.

[0068] Weapons (Sometimes): Drones or missiles for tough situations.

[0069] These drone ships might cruise for weeks, sneak through enemy waters, or race after targets—all on their own. With no crew to fix problems or refuel, their power system has to be top-notch. Here's why power is so critical:

[0070] Reliability: If the power dies, the ship's stuck—no one's there to restart it.

[0071] Efficiency: Limited fuel means every bit has to stretch far for long missions.

[0072] Autonomy: It has to manage itself, switching power sources without help.

[0073] Stealth: Quiet power—like no engine noise—keeps it hidden.

[0074] Flexibility: Power needs change fast, from a little for sensors to a lot for speed.

[0075] Safety: The system must handle electrical faults, like short circuits, without blowing up or catching fire.

[0076] A regular diesel engine won't cut it—it's noisy, fuel-hungry, and slow to adapt. This hybrid system, though, mixes multiple power sources with a smart controller, a transformer, a harmonic distortion reducer, and a resistive power distribution system, making it perfect for a drone ship.The Hybrid Power Team: Engines, Batteries, and Solar Panels

[0077] This system is like a superhero squad, each part bringing its own strength to keep the ship powered. Here's the crew:Engines (Diesel and Natural Gas)What They Do: These are the marathon runners, burning diesel or natural gas (from U.S. Pat. Nos. 11,333,085 and 10,337,424) to make steady electricity for hours or days.

[0079] Why They're Great: On a long patrol, engines keep the ship moving and power big stuff like sonar or thrusters. Diesel's reliable; natural gas is cleaner and can save fuel if the ship's set up for it.

[0080] Details: They spin a generator to create power, which either runs systems directly or charges batteries.BatteriesWhat They Do: These are the sprinters, storing electricity and releasing it fast (U.S. Pat. No. 12,286,204). They're like a power-packed backup ready to jump in.

[0082] Why They're Great: Need to dodge an enemy? Batteries power thrusters instantly. Spying quietly? They run sensors with no engine rumble. They recharge from engines or solar when the ship's resting.

[0083] Details: They're high-capacity and quick, handling sudden jolts—like launching a weapon—or steady use for hours.Solar PanelsWhat They Do: These are the sun-powered helpers, grabbing free energy from daylight (U.S. Pat. No. 10,530,290). They're silent and don't use fuel.

[0085] Why They're Great: On a sunny day, the power navigation or charge batteries, saving fuel for later. Perfect for stealth—no noise, no exhaust. There are a lot of very sunny days offshore.

[0086] Details: Tough and light, they sit on the deck, adding extra watts whenever the sun's out.

[0087] This team—engines for endurance, batteries for speed, solar for stealth—covers everything. But they need a boss to keep them coordinated. That's where the smart controller comes in, now with a boost from U.S. Pat. No. 10,337,424.The Smart Controller: The Ship's Power Brain with Linear Programming

[0088] The smart controller is like the ship's robotic captain, a computer that watches fuel levels, battery charge, sunlight, and power needs, then decides who does what (U.S. Pat. Nos. 11,333,085, 12,286,204, 10,530,290, and 10,337,424). It's got some cool tricks, including linear programming from U.S. Pat. No. 10,337,424. Here's how it works:

[0089] Linear Programming: Think of planning a road trip with cash, a credit card, and coupons. You want to spend the least while still getting everywhere. Linear programming is a math trick that finds the best way to use resources (fuel, battery power, solar energy) to meet a goal—like saving fuel while keeping the ship running. The controller uses it to pick the perfect mix of power sources—like 60% natural gas engine, 30% battery, 10% solar—adjusting as things change, like clouds blocking the sun.

[0090] Expert Systems: This is like a wise old sailor in the computer, following rules like “if the battery's low, start the engine.” It's quick and reliable.

[0091] Neural Networks: This is the smart AI newbie, learning patterns—like when power spikes happen—and predicting what's next.How Linear Programming Makes it Better

[0092] U.S. Pat. No. 10,337,424 uses linear programming to manage a hybrid setup with a natural gas engine, a diesel engine, and a battery. Here's what it does:

[0093] Checks the Load: It sees how much power the ship needs—like sensors sipping or thrusters gulping.

[0094] Sizes Up the Team: It looks at fuel levels, battery charge, and how the engines are running.

[0095] Crunching Numbers: It calculates the best plan—like using more battery to save diesel—keeping power steady with the least fuel.

[0096] Swaps Plans: It shifts the engines and battery to this plan fast, keeping everything smooth.For a Drone Ship, This is AwesomeFuel Savings: It picks the cheapest mix, stretching missions longer.

[0098] Quick Changes: Sea conditions shift fast; it adjusts instantly.

[0099] No Crew Needed: It's all automatic, perfect for a solo ship.

[0100] Imagine the ship sneaking along, spying with sensors. The controller uses linear programming to run 70% battery and 30% solar—quiet and fuel-saving. Clouds roll in? It shifts to 50% natural gas engine, 50% battery, still optimized. Need speed? It taps batteries, then blends in diesel, all balanced to use the least fuel.Power Quality: why Clean Electricity is a Big Deal

[0101] Having power isn't enough—it has to be clean, like fresh water versus a muddy puddle. Dirty power has harmonics—annoying ripples that mess things up. For a drone ship, that's bad news:

[0102] Sensors Glitch: A sonar blip could miss a sub if power's choppy.

[0103] Navigation Fails: Ripples might steer the ship wrong.

[0104] Gear Breaks: Dirty power can fry circuits, and no one's there to fix it.

[0105] With no crew to troubleshoot, clean power is essential. That's where U.S. Pat. No. 10,511,169's DSAFE / DSAHF, U.S. Pat. No. 9,742,308's transformer, U.S. Pat. No. 9,401,605's harmonic distortion reducer, and now U.S. Pat. No. 8,368,246's resistive power distribution team up to keep electricity smooth and safe.The Dsafe / dsahf: the Power Cleaner

[0106] The DSAFE / DSAHF (Dynamic Switchable Active Front End / Dynamic Switchable Active Harmonic Filter) is like a power janitor, cleaning electricity and switching roles as needed (U.S. Pat. No. 10,511,169):Role 1: Active Front End (AFE)What It Does: When big systems—like thrusters—start, it grabs power from the main line, filters out harmonics, and delivers it clean.

[0108] Why It Matters: Thrusters need smooth power to work without hiccups; radar needs it to scan clearly.Role 2: Active Harmonic Filter (AHF)What It Does: When big systems are off, it cleans the whole ship's power line. A current transformer spots harmonics, and it sends out anti-harmonic currents—opposite waves that cancel the ripples, like Bose Noise Canceling Headphones but for the grid.

[0110] Why It Matters: Sensors and computers stay glitch-free and last longer.How it SwitchesThe controller decides: thrusters on, AFE mode; thrusters off, AHF mode. It's a multitasking pro.Why It's Key for Drone ShipsSaves Space: One device, two jobs—great for a small ship.Keeps It Running: Clean power prevents breakdowns with no crew to fix them.

[0114] Boosts Precision: Sensitive gear works perfectly with smooth power.

[0115] The Transformer Magic: U.S. Pat. No. 9,742,308's Phase Shifted Polygon Forked Wye Transformer

[0116] Now, let's add the star of the show: The Phase Shifted Polygon Forked Wye Transformer from U.S. Pat. No. 9,742,308. This isn't just any transformer—it's a special gadget that makes power super clean and smooth, like a top-tier water filter for electricity. Here's how it works and why it's perfect for the drone ship.

[0117] What's a Transformer? A transformer is like a power translator—it takes electricity at one voltage and changes it to another, kind of like shifting gears on a bike. On a drone ship, transformers take high-voltage power from the generators and adjust it for systems like sensors or computers. Regular transformers can let through harmonics—those pesky ripples—but this one is built to stop them cold.

[0118] How Does It Work? U.S. Pat. No. 9,742,308's transformer has a unique design: a polygon primary (the input side) and a forked wye secondary (the output side). Let's break it down simply:

[0119] Polygon Primary: Picture the input side shaped like a hexagon (a six-sided shape). This setup splits the electricity into smaller, smoother streams, reducing harmonic ripples right away. It's like dividing a big, choppy river into calm little channels.

[0120] Forked Wye Secondary: The output side looks like a “Y” with extra branches (forks). These branches balance the power and cancel out more harmonics. Imagine it as a team of filters working together to make the electricity super pure.

[0121] Phase Shifting: Here's the magic trick—it tweaks the timing of the power waves slightly. By shifting them, the harmonic ripples crash into each other and disappear, like noise-canceling headphones sending out opposite sounds to silence noise.

[0122] The patent uses two transformers like this, each shifted a bit differently—one forward, one backward. Their outputs combine into a pseudo 24-pulse output, which is a super-smooth power wave with almost no harmonics. It's like turning a bumpy road into a glassy highway for the ship's systems.Why It's Awesome for the Drone ShipSuper Clean Power: It cuts harmonics at the source, so the power is smooth before it even reaches the ship's gear. Less work for the DSAFE / DSAHF and better protection for sensitive stuff like sensors.

[0124] More Efficiency: Clean power means less energy wasted fighting harmonics, so the ship uses fuel smarter. Harmonics can be thought of as electric brakes robbing energy and causing overheating everything and everywhere they are present.

[0125] Rock-Solid Reliability: Fewer harmonics mean less stress on equipment, cutting the chance of breakdowns—huge for a ship with no crew.

[0126] Fits Right In: It's compact and efficient, perfect for the ship's tight space.

[0127] Think of it this way: if the DSAFE / DSAHF is a janitor cleaning up a mess, this transformer stops the mess from happening. It's like hosting a party where no one spills anything—everything stays perfect from the start.The Harmonic Distortion Reducer: U.S. Pat. No. 9,401,605's System for Ultra-Clean Power

[0128] But wait, there's more! Even with the transformer and DSAFE / DSAHF working hard, some super-sensitive systems—like the navigation computers or communication radios—need power that's extra clean. That's where U.S. Pat. No. 9,401,605's Harmonic Distortion Reducer comes in. It's like a super-smart power purifier that constantly checks and fixes the electricity on the lower power bus (the line feeding these delicate systems), making sure it's as smooth as glass.

[0129] Here's how it works, step by step, with all the details from the patent:

[0130] 1. The Setup: Higher and Lower Power Buses

[0131] What It Is: The ship's power system has two main lines: a higher power electrical bus (the main power line from the generators) and a lower power electrical bus (a smaller line for sensitive gear). The higher bus feeds power to the lower bus through a first transformer, which adjusts the voltage down a bit for systems that don't need the full strength.

[0132] Why It Matters: Sensitive systems like navigation or communication often need a lower voltage, but they still pick up ripples (harmonics) from the higher bus caused by big loads like thrusters or engines.

[0133] 2. The Filter. What It Does: This filter sits between the first transformer and the lower power bus. It's like a one-way gate that lets clean power flow from the higher bus to the lower bus but blocks any dirty currents (like harmonics or correction currents) from sneaking back into the main system. The patent says it “substantially attenuates” these unwanted currents, especially at harmonic frequencies (ripples higher than the normal power wave).

[0134] Details: It's designed to stop correction currents (more on those soon) from messing up the higher bus while letting the main power flow through. Think of it as a bouncer at a club—only the good stuff gets in, and trouble stays out.

[0135] Why It Matters: This keeps the main power system stable while the lower bus gets cleaned up, protecting the whole ship.

[0136] 3. The Current Transformer, What It Does: This is like a power quality detective attached to the lower power bus. It constantly checks the electricity for any ripples or bumps (called deviations from a smooth, sinusoidal voltage waveform—the perfect, wavelike shape power should have). If it spots any harmonics (those pesky ripples at higher frequencies), it generates an in-phase current that matches the power's rhythm and sends a signal to the active filter.

[0137] Details: The patent notes it senses deviations “at a harmonic frequency for the fundamental frequency” of the lower bus power (the fundamental is the main, normal wave—harmonics are the extra wiggles). It's wired to catch these issues precisely.

[0138] Why It Matters: It's the eyes of the system, spotting trouble so the active filter can fix it fast.

[0139] 4. The Active Filter, What It Does: This is the cleanup crew. It takes the signal from the current transformer and creates a special in-phase correction current—a wave that's the exact opposite of the ripples. The patent says it “opposes the deviation” in the voltage. When it injects this correction current onto the lower bus, it cancels out the bumps, making the electricity smooth again—like sending a wave that flattens ripples in a pond.

[0140] Details: It's an electronic device with a processor and computer instructions (stored on a non-transitory medium, like a memory chip) that tell it how to make this correction current. It works fast, adjusting the power to a perfect sinusoidal waveform (that smooth, ideal shape).

[0141] Why It Matters: This active cleanup ensures the sensitive systems get power without any glitches, keeping them running perfectly.

[0142] 5. The Second Transformer, What It Does: After the power on the lower bus is cleaned up, this transformer steps it up to a higher voltage for specific systems that need more juice—like a “highest voltage load” (think powerful communication gear or specialized sensors). It takes the cleaned-up lower voltage and boosts it to a “cleaned-up highest voltage,” delivering it exactly where it's needed.

[0143] Details: The patent highlights this as a key step—some loads need a higher voltage than the lower bus provides, but they still need it clean. This transformer ensures they get both.

[0144] Why It Matters: It's like a custom delivery service, making sure every system gets the right power, perfectly purified.

[0145] For the drone ship, this system is like having a dedicated team ensuring the power for the most sensitive gear—like navigation computers or radios—is always perfect. It works alongside the DSAFE / DSAHF and the transformer from U.S. Pat. No. 9,742,308, adding an extra layer of protection.

[0146] Why It's a Game-Changer. Ultra-Clean Power for Sensitive Systems: While the transformer and DSAFE / DSAHF clean the main power, this system focuses on the lower bus where the ship's brain lives—navigation, communication, sensors. It's like giving those systems their own private, VIP power supply.

[0147] Stops Harmonics in Their Tracks: By actively sensing and correcting ripples at harmonic frequencies (higher than the normal wave), it ensures the power is as smooth as possible, preventing glitches or damage.

[0148] Keeps the Main System Safe: The filter blocks correction currents from leaking back to the higher bus, so the whole system stays stable.

[0149] Perfect for No-Crew Ops: With no one to fix things, this automatic cleanup keeps the ship running without a hitch.

[0150] Imagine the ship's navigation system plotting a course through stormy seas. Even tiny power ripples could throw off its calculations, sending the ship off track. But with this harmonic distortion reducer, the power is so clean that the navigation computer works flawlessly, keeping the ship on course no matter what.

[0151] The Resistive Power Distribution Magic: U.S. Pat. No. 8,368,246's System for Safer, Smarter Power Delivery

[0152] Now, let's add the final piece of the puzzle: U.S. Pat. No. 8,368,246's Resistive Power Distribution System. This isn't just about making power clean—it's about making it safe and smart, especially when things go wrong, like a short circuit or a power surge. For a drone ship with no crew to handle emergencies, this system is like having a built-in firefighter that stops electrical disasters before they start.

[0153] Here's how it works, step by step, with all the details from the patent:1. The Setup: Low and High Resistivity Sections

[0154] What It Is: The power distribution system uses a special cable or bus (the main power line) that has two parts: a low resistivity section (which lets electricity flow easily, like a wide highway) and a high resistivity section (which resists the flow a bit, like a narrow road).

[0155] Details: The low resistivity section is made of materials that conduct electricity well, like copper, while the high resistivity section is made of materials that resist electricity more, like certain alloys. The patent says the high resistivity section has “substantially higher resistivity” than the low section—about twice as much. This can be a bus (a flat metal bar) or a cable (a bundle of wires), or even a mix of both.

[0156] Why It Matters: Normally, power flows through the low resistivity section to the ship's systems. But if there's a fault—like a short circuit—the high resistivity section steps in to save the day.2. How it Handles FaultsWhat It Does: If there's a short circuit (like wires touching by accident), a huge surge of electricity (called fault current) tries to rush through the system, which can cause fires or damage. But in this system, the fault current has to pass through the high resistivity section first.

[0158] Details: The high resistivity section acts like a speed bump—it slows down the fault current by making it harder for electricity to flow. This causes a voltage drop, which reduces the amount of current that reaches the fault. The patent explains that this “reduces the amount of fault current available at the short circuit,” making it less dangerous.

[0159] Why It Matters: It's like having a pressure valve—if too much water tries to rush through a pipe, the valve slows it down to prevent a burst. On the drone ship, this means fewer electrical fires or blown circuits, keeping the ship safe even without a crew.3. The Smart Design: Center and Outer MembersWhat It Is: The patent describes a clever setup where the high resistivity section is in the center of the cable or bus, and the low resistivity section is on the outside, surrounding it. There's also an outer high resistivity member around everything.

[0161] Details: This is like a coaxial cable, with layers: an inner high resistivity core (the center member), a middle low resistivity layer (the outer member), and an outer high resistivity layer (the outer high resistivity member). The low resistivity outer layer carries the normal power (at 50 or 60 Hz, the standard frequencies), while the high resistivity center handles high-frequency disturbances (like harmonics or surges).

[0162] Why It Matters: This design is genius because it uses the skin effect—a property where high-frequency currents tend to flow near the surface of a conductor, while low-frequency currents flow through the whole thing. So:

[0163] Normal power (low frequency, like 50 or 60 Hz) flows through the low resistivity outer layer efficiently.

[0164] High-frequency disturbances (like harmonics above 1 kHz or fault currents) get pushed to the high resistivity center, where they're slowed down and weakened.

[0165] It's like having a road where slow cars (high-frequency disturbances) are forced to the bumpy middle, while fast cars (normal power) cruise on the smooth edges.4. Magnetic Flux PathWhat It Does: The high resistivity center and outer members also form a magnetic flux path. When current flows through the low resistivity layer, it creates a magnetic field, and this setup helps contain and manage that field, reducing interference with other systems.

[0167] Details: The patent mentions that the high resistivity members “form a magnetic flux path for magnetic flux generated by current flowing in the low frequency surrounding member.” This keeps the ship's sensitive electronics from getting scrambled by stray magnetic fields.

[0168] Why It Matters: On a drone ship packed with sensors and computers, keeping magnetic noise low is crucial for accuracy and reliability.5. Handling Different FrequenciesWhat It Does: The system is designed so that:

[0170] Low-frequency currents (like the normal 50 or 60 Hz power) flow through the low resistivity outer layer.

[0171] High-frequency currents (like harmonics above 1 kHz or fault surges) flow through the high resistivity center.

[0172] Details: The patent specifies that the low resistivity member “presents a high reactance to high frequency electrical disturbances,” meaning it resists letting those fast, spiky currents through, forcing them into the high resistivity path instead. Reactance is like a bouncer that says “no way” to high-frequency troublemakers, redirecting them to the tougher path.

[0173] Why It Matters: This setup naturally filters out high-frequency noise, making the power cleaner without extra gadgets. It's like having a built-in sieve that lets only the good stuff through.6. Reducing Fault CurrentWhat It Does: When a fault happens, the high resistivity section doesn't just slow down the current—it also reduces the total amount of current that can flow to the fault. The patent says this “reduces the amount of fault current available at the short circuit.”

[0175] Details: By increasing resistance, it limits how much current can surge through during a fault, protecting the ship's systems from overload. For example, if a short circuit happens at a connection point, the high resistivity section cuts the surge down, so it's not a full-on electrical storm.

[0176] Why It Matters: On a drone ship, where a fault could mean disaster with no crew to respond, this automatic protection is a lifesaver.

[0177] For the drone ship, this resistive power distribution system is like having a smart, self-healing power line that not only delivers electricity but also protects itself and the ship from electrical disasters.Why It's a Game-ChangerAutomatic Fault Protection: No need for a crew to flip breakers or fix shorts—the system handles it by design. If a wire shorts out, the high resistivity section reduces the damage automatically.

[0179] Cleaner Power: By routing high-frequency noise through the high resistivity path, it naturally filters the power, reducing harmonics and surges—less work for the transformer and DSAFE / DSAHF.

[0180] Space-Saving: It's built into the power distribution cables or buses, so no extra bulky equipment takes up room on the ship.

[0181] Magnetic Shielding: The design keeps magnetic fields in check, protecting sensitive electronics like sonar or communication systems from interference.

[0182] Imagine the ship's thrusters suddenly short-circuiting during a chase. Normally, that could cause a massive power surge, frying circuits or starting a fire. But with this system, the high resistivity section slows the surge, reducing the damage and keeping the ship operational. It's like having an invisible shield that activates exactly when needed.How it All Fits Together

[0183] Here's how all these amazing parts work together to make the drone ship's power system unbeatable:

[0184] 1. Power Generation: Engines (diesel or natural gas) and solar panels make electricity, with batteries storing extra for later.

[0185] 2. Smart Controller: Using linear programming (U.S. Pat. No. 10,337,424), it picks the best mix of power sources—like 60% natural gas, 40% battery—based on what the ship needs and the weather.

[0186] 3. Transformer Magic: The Phase Shifted Polygon Forked Wye Transformer (U.S. Pat. No. 9,742,308) cleans the power at the source, reducing harmonics right away.

[0187] 4. DSAFE / DSAHF: Dynamically cleans power for big systems (like thrusters) in AFE mode or the whole ship in AHF mode (U.S. Pat. No. 10,511,169).

[0188] 5. Harmonic Distortion Reducer: Specifically targets the lower power bus for sensitive systems, using active filtering to ensure ultra-clean power (U.S. Pat. No. 9,401,605).

[0189] 6. Resistive Power Distribution: Delivers power through a smart cable or bus that automatically handles faults and filters high-frequency noise (U.S. Pat. No. 8,368,246).

[0190] It's Like a Multi-layered Defense:

[0191] The transformer stops most harmonics at the source, making the power smooth from the get-go.

[0192] The DSAFE / DSAHF cleans up any leftovers for big systems or the whole ship, keeping things glitch-free.

[0193] The harmonic distortion reducer gives the sensitive systems their own super-clean power line, ensuring precision.

[0194] The resistive power distribution system ensures the power delivery is safe, efficient, and self-protecting, handling faults and noise without a hitch.

[0195] Together, these systems ensure every part of the drone ship gets the cleanest, most reliable, and safest power possible, from the thrusters to the tiniest sensor.Real-World Missions: The System in Action

[0196] Let's see how this hybrid system, with the transformer, harmonic distortion reducer, and resistive power distribution, handles three missions:Mission 1: Stealthy SurveillanceScene: The ship's creeping along an enemy coast, sensors on, staying hidden.

[0198] Power Play: The controller uses linear programming for a quiet mix—70% battery, 30% solar—to run sensors and navigation, saving fuel and avoiding engine noise. Clouds hit? It shifts to 50% battery, 50% natural gas, and is still efficient.

[0199] Transformer Magic: The transformer keeps the engine's power smooth, so sensors don't pick up harmonic noise and miss anything.

[0200] Harmonic Distortion Reducer: Ensures the sensors and navigation systems on the lower bus get ultra-clean power, so their readings are spot-on—no ripples to blur the data.

[0201] Resistive Power Distribution: If a sensor shorts out, the high resistivity section limits the fault current, preventing damage and keeping the system running quietly.

[0202] DSAFE / DSAHF: In AFE mode, it feeds clean power to sensors for clear data—no harmonic blips.

[0203] Why It Works: Stealth and efficiency keep the ship sneaky, with ultra-clean, safe power ensuring perfect sensor readings.Mission 2: High-Speed PursuitScene: An enemy boat runs; the ship chases it down.

[0205] Power Play: Linear programming starts with 80% battery for instant thrust, 20% diesel warming up. Then it shifts to 50% diesel, 50% battery, and finally 100% diesel for the long chase, all optimized to save fuel.

[0206] Transformer Magic: The transformer smooths the diesel power, preventing harmonics from slowing thrusters or causing stutters.

[0207] Harmonic Distortion Reducer: Keeps the navigation and communication systems on the lower bus glitch-free during the chase, so the ship stays on target.

[0208] Resistive Power Distribution: If a thruster wire shorts during the chase, the high resistivity section reduces the fault current, preventing a power surge from damaging the system and keeping the chase on.

[0209] DSAFE / DSAHF: In AFE mode, it delivers clean power to thrusters for a fast chase, then switches to AHF to tidy up after.

[0210] Why It Works: Speed and efficiency catch the target, with smooth, safe power keeping thrusters strong and navigation sharp.Mission 3: Weapons LaunchScene: The ship launches a recon drone, needing a big power surge.

[0212] Power Play: The controller hits 100% battery for the launch, then settles to 60% natural gas, 40% solar for tracking, saving battery—all calculated for minimal fuel use.

[0213] Transformer Magic: The transformer ensures the battery surge is clean, so the launch system works flawlessly.

[0214] Harmonic Distortion Reducer: Makes sure the drone's control systems and communication links on the lower bus get perfect power, so the launch and tracking are smooth.

[0215] Resistive Power Distribution: If there's a short circuit during launch, the high resistivity section limits the damage, keeping the ship safe and the mission on track.

[0216] DSAFE / DSAHF: In AFE mode, it gives the launch system perfect power, then switches to AHF to stabilize everything else.

[0217] Why It Works: Precision and flexibility nail the launch, with ultra-clean, safe power making it smooth.Why This System Rocks for Navy Drone Ships

[0218] This hybrid power system, with the transformer from U.S. Pat. No. 9,742,308, the harmonic distortion reducer from U.S. Pat. No. 9,401,605, and the resistive power distribution from U.S. Pat. No. 8,368,246, is a total winner—here's why:

[0219] Unbreakable Reliability: Engines, batteries, and solar offer triple backup. One fails? Another takes over. The controller swaps plans fast.

[0220] Fuel-Saving Efficiency: Linear programming uses the least fuel, stretching missions longer—perfect for far-off ops.

[0221] Full Autonomy: No crew? No worries. The controller runs it all solo with smart math and learning tricks.

[0222] Super Stealth: Batteries and solar keep it quiet and smokeless—ideal for sneaking around.

[0223] Flexibility: From low-power spying to high-power chases, it shifts instantly, with batteries for bursts and engines for stamina.

[0224] Gear-Protecting Power: The transformer, DSAFE / DSAHF, harmonic distortion reducer, and resistive power distribution keep electricity clean and safe, saving sensitive systems from damage and faults—no crew needed for repairs.The Bottom Line: a Drone Ship's Dream Power System

[0225] Navy drone ships are the future—tough, smart, and lone wolves of the sea. They need a power system that's just as awesome, and this hybrid setup from U.S. Pat. Nos. 12,286,204, 11,333,085, 10,530,290, 10,511,169, 10,337,424, 9,742,308, 9,401,605, 8,368,246, and 7,804,190 delivers. Engines, batteries, and solar panels form a killer team, guided by a smart controller with linear programming for max efficiency. The DSAFE / DSAHF keeps power clean, the Phase Shifted Polygon Forked Wye Transformer from U.S. Pat. No. 9,742,308 adds harmonic-busting magic, the Harmonic Distortion Reducer from U.S. Pat. No. 9,401,605 ensures ultra-clean power for sensitive systems, and the Resistive Power Distribution from U.S. Pat. No. 8,368,246 makes the power delivery safe and smart.

[0226] Whether it's lurking silently, chasing threats, or launching drones, this system keeps the ship powered, sneaky, and ready mission after mission. It's not just a power source; it's the beating heart of a robotic fleet, proving a navy drone ship can rule the seas, crew or no crew.

[0227] FIG. 9 depicts a schematic representations of a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention as a hybrid power generation system provided using a computer program for energy management. As shown in FIG. 9 a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention a hybrid power generation plant system is disclosed including but not limited to a processor; a hybrid power source for servicing a system load on a drone ship, the hybrid power source including but not limited to a diesel engine; a computer program comprising instructions to determine a current system load serviced by power provided from the hybrid power generation plant; instructions to determine a current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery; instructions to use linear programming to determine a more efficient operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to reduce for power consumption servicing the current system load the diesel engine and the battery; and instructions to replace the current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery with the more efficient operating state for the diesel engine and the battery. A method is disclosed for using the hybrid power generation plant system. In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, several types of stored energy DC power source batteries are added to the hybrid power generation system as another energy source to be used to provide energy.

[0228] The present invention provides a controller having a “Linear Algebra” (also referred to as herein as “Linear” and “Linear Programming”) computer program stored in a non-transitory computer readable medium, wherein the Linear Algebra, or the solutions to simultaneous non-equalities, to yield substantially improved efficiency and substantially least efficiency solutions to active Energy Management. In an illustrative embodiment of the invention a system and method provides a substantially most efficient use of the discharging of stored energy devices, diesel engine generator power and total and partial energy consumption and management. In another particular embodiment the computer program is standard or non-linear computer program comprising instructions that are executed by the processor.

[0229] In another particular illustrative embodiment, a controller having a linear programming computer program is provided for controlling the combined use of diesel engines and battery power stored in a battery for energy for management in supplying energy to a system load being serviced by a combination of the diesel engine and the battery power. The linear programming computer program determines a current system load being serviced by the diesel engines and battery power and determines a current load on each one of the diesel engine and the battery power. The linear programming system adjusts the usage of each of the diesel engine and battery power for economically servicing the system load. The linear programming system adjusts the usage of each of the diesel engines and battery power for reducing the power used for servicing the system load. A method is disclosed for using the linear programming energy management system.

[0230] A tutorial and description of the use of linear programming that can be adapted and used in one particular illustrative embodiment of the present invention is described in the book Linear programming, by Vasek Chvatal, W. H. Freeman and Company, New York, 1983. An example of how to use linear programming to find an optimal fuel mixture for each generator at each time period and under each scenario using linear programming; and repeating the previous two steps as long as the fuel mixture obtained from the linear programming solution changes is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,021,402 to Takriti, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. An example of an energy management system that uses an expert system as an energy management system uses an expert engine and a numerical solver to determine an optimal manner of using and controlling the various energy consumption, producing and storage equipment in a plant / communities in order to for example reduce energy costs within the plant, and is especially applicable to plants that require or that are capable of using and / or producing different types of energy at different times. The energy management system operates the various energy manufacturing and energy usage components of the plant to minimize the cost of energy over time, or at various different times, while still meeting certain constraints or requirements within the operational system, such as producing a certain amount of heat or cooling, a certain power level, a certain level of production, etc. in U.S. Pat. No. 9,335,748 to Francino, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention, the Load Sharing Processor, which is part of the MPS, and PMS and the hybrid power generation plant system of the present invention is programmed as an expert system to perform energy management as described herein. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention, the Load Sharing Processor of the present invention is programmed as a neural network to perform energy management as described herein. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention, the Load Sharing Processor of the present invention is programmed as a computer program to perform energy management as described herein.

[0231] In a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention, a system and method provide a solution by adding a battery to the system with a DC-AC converter to allow fast transient response of the electrical system while solely operating with the diesel engine-generator.

[0232] Diesel fuel engines run on diesel. Continuously running the diesel engine during preload both wastes diesel fuel and shortens the life of the diesel engine as it is worn out from running all the time during preload.

[0233] FIG. 9 depicts a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention as a system provided using a computer program for energy management. The computer program is a linear program. In another illustrative embodiment, the computer program can be but is not limited to a neural network and an expert system.

[0234] FIG. 10 depicts schematic representations of a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention as a hybrid diesel power generation system installed on a drone ship. Turning now to FIG. 10, in a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention, a bank of diesel engine generators 114-119 is combined with a and a pair of lithium batteries 130 and 132. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention two diesel fuel engine generators are combined with a battery. These illustrative embodiments of systems in the present invention are controlled by a processor in the hybrid power generation plant system using linear programming to achieve a high efficiency of use between the engine generators and the battery. In another embodiment a neural network is used to achieve a high efficiency of use between the engines and the battery. In another embodiment an expert system is used to achieve a high efficiency of use between the engine generators and the battery. In another embodiment a computer program is used to achieve a high efficiency of use between the diesel engine generators and the batteries.

[0235] In the hybrid diesel power generation plant for a drone ship, diesel engine generators and DC power batteries are provided to provide high power generation capacity to handle high instantaneous torque requirements and long duty cycle ongoing power requirements. In another embodiment the DC power converter to the batteries are provided with a Diesel Generator (also referred to as “Diesel Engine Generators”). The Load Sharing Processor is provided to handle load sharing between the Diesel engine 116 the DC / DC Converter Controller 124 and DC power from Batteries. The Load Sharing Processor monitors power requirements from the Load 122 and efficiently shares the load between the diesel engine generator 116-119 and the DC / DC Converter Controller 124 based on the load requirements and an efficient balance of power generation for the current load requirements based on linear programming in the Load Sharing Processor. The Load Sharing Processor provides substantially efficient use of the diesel engines 116 and the batteries attached to DC / DC Converter Controller 124 for handling base loads and loads requiring torque transients on the drone ship.

[0236] In a particular embodiment of the invention, the Load Sharing Processing uses Linear Programming stored as computer program 126 on computer readable medium 128 to read a current operating state for the diesel engines and the batteries attached to DC / DC Converter Controller 124 and determines a substantially optimally efficient operating state for efficiently producing energy to service the load at the current time. The operating state for the diesel generator includes but is not limited to engine revolutions per minute (RPM), variable frequency of a supply voltage, torque, plot point on a speed torque curve for the diesel Generator. The operating state for batteries includes but is not limited to percent charged to capacity, type of battery and plot point on a battery life to power output capacity curve for each battery type used in the system. The Load Sharing Processor achieves a substantially efficient load share by using a linear programming computer program stored on a computer readable medium to efficiently share the load of power generation to provide power a substantially reduced cost. In another embodiment of the invention, a battery is provided as another source to handle loads instantaneous torque requirements. In another embodiment of the invention, the battery is a solar power charged battery storage. In another embodiment of the invention, the batteries are provided to service high torque loads, and the diesel engines are eliminated.

[0237] In another embodiment of the invention, a combination of diesel engines and batteries are provided to handle loads. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention, a computer program is provided in a load management processor, which is in the hybrid power generation plant system. The computer program includes but is not limited to computer instructions stored in a computer readable medium that when executed by the load management processor, perform functions that are useful in accomplishing efficient load sharing between the diesel engines and batteries when servicing loads on a drone ship. In another embodiment, the computer program includes but is not limited to instructions that use linear algebra to manage the load sharing.

[0238] In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention, the computer program performs power management to efficiently provide power. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention, the computer program performs energy management. In the energy management embodiment, the computer program performs load balancing by managing energy supplied by multiple diesel engines, variable frequency electric motors, variable voltage electric motors, various energy storage devices and multiple type hybrid batteries. In another particular embodiment of the invention direct current (DC) to DC converter is provided between a bank of different type batteries to provide energy to the oil rig to efficiently handle loads during efficient load sharing between multiple gas engines, variable frequency electric motors, variable voltage electric motors, various energy storage devices and multiple types of hybrid batteries.

[0239] In another embodiment of the invention, the load management processor executes the computer program to provide a linear algebra computer program to provide efficient load sharing and energy management to efficiently manage use of the different batteries and energy sources including but not limited to variable speed engines, multiple gas engines, variable frequency electric motors, variable voltage electric motors, various energy storage devices and multiple type hybrid batteries. In another embodiment of the invention, the load management processor executes the computer program to control the diesel engines in reference to an operating state for diesel engines including but not limited to a diesel engine fuel map, the fuel map including but not limited to a speed versus torque curve for the diesel engine to dynamically determine and control an efficient fuel-air mixture provided to the diesel engine generator to control the speed of the diesel engine generator to efficiently service a load. The speed versus torque curve is used by the load management processor to determine a speed to provide a particular torque based on the speed versus torque curve during efficient dynamic load management. In a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention, the diesel engine generator provides more torque at lower speeds.

[0240] In a particular illustrative embodiment, a 50 hertz or 60 hertz diesel engine generator is slowed down to increase torque provided by the diesel engine. For example, slowing down the diesel engine to 30 hertz increases the torque provided by the diesel engine at 60 hertz. A slowdown of the diesel engine to 30 hertz is accomplished by an alternating current (AC) to AC converter that is provided to synthesize 60 hertz to 30 hertz. In another embodiment the load management processor executes the computer program provides a nonlinear programming computer program to provide efficient load sharing and energy management. The Load Sharing Processor reads the speed and torque provided by the diesel engine generators, and the batteries connected to the DC / DC convert selects a substantially optimal frequency for each of the based on the speed versus torque curve for the diesel engine generators and the batteries.

[0241] In another embodiment, the Load Sharing Processor using a neural network to read the speed and torque provided by the two diesel engine generators and the two batteries connected to the DC / DC convert selects a substantially optimal frequency for each of the based on the speed versus torque curve for the two diesel engine generators and a mix of using the batteries. In another embodiment, the Load Sharing Processor reads the speed and torque provided by the two diesel engine generators and the batteries connected to the DC / DC convert selects a substantially optimal frequency for each of the based on the speed versus torque curve for the two diesel engine generators, and the batteries to provide power to service the load 122.

[0242] Turning now to FIG. 9, FIG. 9 is a schematic block diagram a system in one particular illustrative embodiment of a Hybrid Power Generation System 100. As shown in FIG. 9, a Load Sharing Processor 110 which is part of the hybrid power generation system sends control data and receives status data on communication bus 112 to and from a Diesel Engines 114-119, Load 122, and DC / DC Converter Controller 124. The DC / DC converter controller 124 sends control data to and receives status and request data from battery 1 130 and battery 2 132. In an illustrative embodiment battery 1 is a lithium manganese cobalt battery for large transient power requirements, battery 2 is a lithium titanate battery for long life and long duty cycle. In another embodiment and a lead acid battery provides raw power at a low cost.

[0243] A Power Bus 120 receives power from Diesel Engine 116, Gas Engine Generator 118 on a Generator Power Bus 140, and DC power from DC / DC Converter Controller 124 from Batteries 1 through N over Battery Power Bus 142.

[0244] A computer program 126 including but not limited to computer instructions stored in a Computer Readable Medium 128 are executed by the Load Sharing Processor 110. In a particular illustrative embodiment the Hybrid Diesel Power Generation System 100 Load Sharing Processor 110 controls the Hybrid Power Generation System to dynamically and efficiently provide power to meet load requirements for the Load 122.

[0245] In another particular illustrative embodiment, the Load Sharing Processor system generates a power impulse command to, for example, provide a torque impulse to an equipment as described in US. U.S. Pat. No. 9,365,265 by John B. Janik, issued on May-25-2016 and entitled “Hybrid Winch with Controlled Release and Torque Impulse Generation”. In one particular embodiment, a torque profile is selected to apply a sharp rise in power provided by the Hybrid Power Generation System to generate a sharp rise in power as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 415,626 filed Jan. 25, 2017, by Janik and entitled “System and method for controlling a jack up rig” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety and an anchor handling winch to rapidly increase power applied to the load. The stored battery backup power is applied to achieve a more rapid rise in energy supplied, available power generated, and impulse torque exerted by the equipment than possible using the diesel generator power by itself.

[0246] In another embodiment a user input from user input device 125 selecting a torque profile is received by the Load Sharing Processor. In another particular illustrative embodiment, a neural network is provided as a computer program in the computer readable medium that is executed by the Load Sharing Processor to monitor the operating states of the batteries, engines and generator discussed above and energy supplied to the equipment during operations of raising and lowering jack up rig legs and punch through testing and tension and torque applied to the anchor cable and winch during successful anchor setting operations. The neural network monitors the operating states for of all energy sources during the operations and stores them in the computer readable medium. The neural network stores the monitored operating states of the batteries, engines and generators discussed above and provided in the Hybrid Power Generation System which supplies to the equipment during raising and lowering jack up rig legs and punch through testing and tension and torque settings and applies the stored energy settings to the during raising and lowering jack up rig legs and punch through testing and tension and torque applies to the anchor cable and winch during successful anchor setting operations. In another particular illustrative embodiment, an expert system is provided as a computer program in the computer readable medium that is executed by the Load Sharing Processor to monitor energy supplied to the due to changes in loading of the drone ship. The expert system stores the monitored tension and torque settings and applies the stored tension and torque settings to the load during operations.

[0247] In a particular illustrative embodiment a system is disclosed including but not limited to a processor in data communication with a non-transitory computer readable medium; a hybrid power source for servicing a system load, the hybrid power source comprising a diesel engine and a battery; a computer program comprising instructions stored in the non-transitory computer readable medium that are executed by the processor, the computer program comprising, instructions determining a current system load serviced by power provided from the hybrid power source; instructions to determine a current operating state for the natural gas engine, the diesel engine and the battery; instructions to use linear programming to determine a new operating state for the natural gas engine, the diesel engine and the battery to reduce power consumption servicing the current system load the diesel engine and the battery; and instructions to replace the current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to the new operating state for the diesel engine and the battery. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention the operating state comprises a load on the diesel engine, speed of the diesel engine and air fuel mixture supplied to the diesel engine, wherein the operating state further comprises torque of the diesel engine. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention the operating state comprises a load on the natural gas engine, speed of the natural gas engine and air fuel mixture supplied to the natural gas engine, wherein the operating state further comprises torque of the natural gas engine. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention the operating state comprises a load on the battery. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention the computer program is a linear program. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention the computer program is an expert system. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention the computer program is a neural network.

[0248] In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention a method is disclosed including but not limited to determining using a computer program a current system load serviced by power provided from a hybrid power source for servicing a system load, the hybrid power source comprising a diesel engine and a battery; determining a current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery; determining using linear programming to a new operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to reduce for power consumption servicing the current system load the diesel engine and the battery; and replacing the current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to the new operating state for the diesel engine and the battery. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention the operating state comprises a load on the diesel engine, speed of the diesel engine and air fuel mixture supplied to the diesel engine, wherein the operating state further comprises torque of the diesel engine. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention the operating state comprises a load on the battery. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention the computer program is a linear program. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention the computer program is an expert system. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention the computer program is a neural network.

[0249] In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention a computer readable medium is disclosed containing instructions that are executed a processor in data communication with a non-transitory computer readable medium to control a hybrid power source for servicing a system load, the hybrid power source comprising a diesel engine and a battery, the computer program comprising instructions stored in the non-transitory computer readable medium that are executed by the processor, the computer program including but not limited to instructions to cause the load processor to determine a current system load serviced by power provided from the hybrid power source; instructions for the processor to determine a current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery; instructions for the processor to use linear programming to determine a new operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to reduce power consumption servicing the current system load the diesel engine and the battery; and instructions for the processor to replace the current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to the new operating state for the diesel engine and the battery. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention in the computer readable medium, the operating state comprises a load on the diesel engine, speed of the diesel engine and air fuel mixture supplied to the diesel engine, wherein the operating state further comprises torque of the diesel engine. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention in the computer readable medium, the operating state comprises a load on the battery. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention in the computer readable medium, the computer program is a linear program. In another particular illustrative embodiment of the invention in the computer readable medium, the computer program is an expert system.

[0250] The present invention can be realized in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. In a specific embodiment, a system according to the present inventions can be realized in a centralized fashion in one computer system, or in a distributed fashion where different elements are spread across several interconnected computer systems. Any kind of computer system or other apparatus adapted for carrying out the methods and inventions described herein may be used for purposes of the present inventions. A typical combination of hardware and software could be a general purpose computer system with a computer program that, when loaded and executed, controls the computer system such that it carries out the methods and inventions described herein.

[0251] The figures herein include block diagram and flowchart illustrations of methods, apparatus(s) and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present inventions. It will be understood that each block in such figures, and combinations of these blocks, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such as the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus may be used to implement the functions specified in the block, blocks, or flow charts. These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable medium or memory that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable medium or memory produce an article of manufacture including instructions which may implement the function specified in the block, blocks, or flow charts.

[0252] The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide steps for implementing the functions specified in the block, blocks, or flow charts.

[0253] Those skilled in the art should readily appreciate that programs defining the functions of the present inventions can be delivered to a computer in many forms, including but not limited to: (a) information permanently stored on non-writable storage media (e.g., read only memory devices within a computer such as ROM or CD-ROM disks readable by a computer I / O attachment); (b) information alterably stored on writable storage media (e.g., floppy disks and hard drives); or (c) information conveyed to a computer through communication media for example using wireless, baseband signaling or broadband signaling techniques, including carrier wave signaling techniques, such as over computer or telephone networks via a modem, or via any of networks.

[0254] The term “executable” as used herein means that a program file is of the type that may be run by the Load Sharing Processor 110. The term processor covers all processors described herein, including but not limited to processors in the PMS, the MPS, the Load Sharing Processor. The processor can be one processor or separate processors dedicated to functions performed by PMS, MPS and the Load Sharing Processor. The terms Load Sharing Processor, PMS, MPS all refer to a processor that exists in the hybrid diesel power generation system along with a computer program stored in a non-transitory computer readable medium, that can be one processor or separate processors dedicated to functions performed by PMS, MPS and the Load Sharing Processor. In specific embodiments, examples of executable programs may include without limitation: a compiled program that can be translated into machine code in a format that can be loaded into a random access portion of the Computer Readable Medium 128 and run by the Load Sharing Processor 110; source code that may be expressed in proper format such as object code that is capable of being loaded into a random access portion of the Computer Readable Medium 128 and executed by the Load Sharing Processor 110; or source code that may be interpreted by another executable program to generate instructions in a random access portion of the Computer Readable Medium to be executed by the Load Sharing Processor 110.

[0255] An executable program may be stored in any portion or component of the Computer Readable Medium including, for example, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard drive, solid-state drive, USB flash drive, memory card, optical disc such as compact disc (CD) or digital versatile disc (DVD), floppy disk, magnetic tape, or other memory components.

[0256] The Computer Readable Medium may include both volatile and nonvolatile memory and data storage components. Volatile components are those that do not retain data values upon loss of power. Nonvolatile components are those that retain data upon a loss of power. Thus, the Computer Readable Medium may comprise, for example, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard disk drives, solid-state drives, USB flash drives, memory cards accessed via a memory card reader, floppy disks accessed via an associated floppy disk drive, optical discs accessed via an optical disc drive, magnetic tapes accessed via an appropriate tape drive, and / or other memory components, or a combination of any two or more of these memory components. In addition, the RAM may comprise, for example, static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), or magnetic random access memory (MRAM) and other such devices. The ROM may comprise, for example, a programmable read-only memory (PROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or other like memory device.

[0257] In a specific embodiment, the Load Sharing Processor may represent multiple Load Sharing Processors and / or multiple processor cores, and the Computer Readable Medium may represent multiple Computer Readable Mediums that operate in parallel processing circuits, respectively. In such a case, the local interface may be an appropriate network that facilitates communication between any two of the multiple Processors, between any processor and any of the Computer Readable Medium, or between any two of the Computer Readable Mediums, etc. The local interface may comprise additional systems designed to coordinate this communication, including, for example, performing load balancing. The Load Sharing Processor may be of electrical or of some other available construction.

[0258] Although the programs and other various systems, components and functionalities described herein may be embodied in software or code executed by general purpose hardware as discussed above, as an alternative the same may also be embodied in dedicated hardware or a combination of software / general purpose hardware and dedicated hardware. If embodied in dedicated hardware, each can be implemented as a circuit or state machine that employs any one of or a combination of a number of technologies. These technologies may include, but are not limited to, discrete logic circuits having logic gates for implementing various logic functions upon an application of one or more data signals, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) having appropriate logic gates, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other components. Such technologies are generally well known by those skilled in the art and, consequently, are not described in detail herein.

[0259] Flowcharts and Block Diagrams of FIG. 1 show the functionality and operation of various specific embodiments of certain aspects of the present inventions. If embodied in software, each block may represent a module, segment, or portion of code that comprises program instructions to implement the specified logical function(s). The program instructions may be embodied in the form of source code that comprises human-readable statements written in a programming language or machine code that comprises numerical instructions recognizable by a suitable execution system such as a Load Sharing Processor in a computer system or other system. The machine code may be converted from the source code, etc. If embodied in hardware, each block may represent a circuit or a number of interconnected circuits to implement the specified logical function(s).

[0260] Although the flowchart and block diagram of FIG. 11 show a specific order of execution, it is understood that the order of execution may differ from that which is depicted. For example, the order of execution of two or more blocks may be scrambled relative to the order shown. Also, two or more blocks shown in succession in FIG. 1 may be executed concurrently or with partial concurrence. Further, in some embodiments, one or more of the blocks shown in FIG. 1 may be skipped or omitted. In addition, any number of counters, state variables, warning semaphores, or messages might be added to the logical flow described herein, for purposes of enhanced utility, accounting, performance measurement, or providing troubleshooting aids. It is understood that all such variations are within the scope of the present inventions.

[0261] Any logic or application described herein that comprises software or code can be embodied in any non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as computer-readable medium, for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system such as, for example, a Load Sharing Processor in a computer system or other system. In this sense, the logic may comprise, for example, statements including instructions and declarations that can be fetched from the computer-readable medium and executed by the instruction execution system. In the context of the present inventions, a “computer-readable medium” may include any medium that may contain, store, or maintain the logic or application described herein for use by or in connection with the instruction execution system.

[0262] The computer-readable medium may comprise any one of many physical media such as, for example, magnetic, optical, or semiconductor media. More specific examples of a suitable computer-readable medium would include, but are not limited to, magnetic tapes, magnetic floppy diskettes, magnetic hard drives, memory cards, solid-state drives, USB flash drives, or optical discs. Also, the computer-readable medium may be a random access memory (RAM) including, for example, static random access memory (SRAM) and dynamic random access memory (DRAM), or magnetic random access memory (MRAM). In addition, the computer-readable medium may be a read-only memory (ROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or other type of memory device.

[0263] The Load Sharing Processor may further include a network interface coupled to the bus and in communication with the network. The network interface may be configured to allow data to be exchanged between computers and other devices attached to the network or any other network or between nodes of any computer system or the video system. In addition to the above description of the network, it may in various embodiments include one or more networks including but not limited to Local Area Networks (LANs) (e.g., an Ethernet or corporate network), Wide Area Networks (WANs) (e.g., the Internet), wireless data networks, some other electronic data network, or some combination thereof. In various embodiments, the network interface 159 may support communication via wired or wireless general data networks, such as any suitable type of Ethernet network, for example; via telecommunications / telephony networks such as analog voice networks or digital fiber communications networks; via storage area networks such as Fiber Channel SANs, or via any other suitable type of network and / or protocol.

[0264] The Load Sharing Processor may also include an input / output interface coupled to the bus and also coupled to one or more input / output devices, such as a display, a touchscreen, a mouse, or other cursor control device, and / or a keyboard. In certain specific embodiments, further examples of input / output devices may include one or more display terminals, keypads, touchpads, scanning devices, voice or optical recognition devices, or any other devices suitable for entering or accessing data by one or more computers. Multiple input / output devices may be present with respect to a computer or may be distributed on various nodes of computer system, the system and / or any of the viewing or other devices shown in FIG. 1. In some embodiments, similar input / output devices may be separated from the Load Sharing Processor and may interact with the Load Sharing Processor or one or more nodes of computer system through a wired or wireless connection, such as through the network interface.

[0265] Turning now to FIG. 10, FIG. 10 depicts schematic representations of a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention as a hybrid diesel power generation system installed on a drone ship. A shown in FIG. 10, batteries 130, 132 and charger 138 along with generators 114-119, are connected to the hybrid diesel power generation system. The bus 120 runs to propulsion system 123 that turns propeller 203. A ship service switch board 202 with active harmonic filters 204 is provided on the drone ship as described herein.

[0266] Turning now to FIG. 11, FIG. 11 is a flow chart of functions performed by the hybrid diesel power generation system installed on a drone ship by a processor computer program. The computer program starts at 301 and monitors a current load at 302. The processor monitors the power available at 304. The processor connects a most efficient combination of batteries and diesel generators to the bus for the current load. At 308 the processor performs power demand limiting by VFD processing, described herein, until the additional diesel generator power is on the bus. At 310 the processor connects additional batteries that are connected to the bus during high demand loads. At 312 the processor removes diesel generator power from the bus when the load demand is low.

[0267] It is to be understood that the inventions disclosed herein are not limited to the exact details of construction, operation, exact materials, or embodiments shown and described. Although specific embodiments of the inventions have been described, various modifications, alterations, alternative constructions, and equivalents are also encompassed within the scope of the inventions. Although the present inventions may have been described using a particular series of steps, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the scope of the present inventions is not limited to the described series of steps. The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. It will be evident that additions, subtractions, deletions, and other modifications and changes may be made thereunto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the inventions as set forth in the claims set forth below. Accordingly, the inventions are therefore to be limited only by the scope of the appended claims. None of the claim language should be interpreted pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 112(f) unless the word “means” is recited in any of the claim language, and then only with respect to any recited “means” limitation.

[0268] In an illustrative embodiment of the invention, a hybrid diesel electric drone ship is provided with a hybrid power generation plant rated at 4,165 kW. In the hybrid power generation power plant, power is generated by 6 diesel generators each rated at 600 kW at 0.8 PF at 690 VAC. In addition, the hybrid power generation plant provides the hybrid diesel electric drone ship with 565kWh of stored energy from two on board lithium ion batteries. The stored energy in the lithium ion batteries enables the hybrid diesel electric drone ship to operate with a lower number of diesel generators running, for example, 2 of 6 diesel generators when operating under a reduced load. The lithium ion batteries also act as a backup power supply when there is a sudden demand for power in the hybrid diesel electric drone ship. (See U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,802,679B2 1 and 9,923,370B2 2). During a sudden demand, the lithium ion batteries provide additional power to the hybrid diesel electric drone ship until the remaining 4 of the 6 generators are started up and connected to the main propulsion switchboard. The main propulsion switchboard is controlled using computer programs described herein, which in part use systems and methods for mechanical load balancing using generator droop frequency based on motor load feedback, better described in the Electronic Power Design U.S. Pat. Nos. 10,337,424 and 10,541,536 B2. In one embodiment of the invention, the main propulsion for the drone ship is provided by two 1,865kW, Azimuthing Z Drive propulsion units, which will each be powered by variable frequency drives.

[0269] Ship service power is derived from the main propulsion switchboard through 690:120 / 208 VAC ship service transformers. The ship service switchboard also provides active harmonic filters that will provide clean power for sensitive electronics onboard the vessel such as radars, other navigation devices, third party equipment, hotel load etc. These Active Harmonic Filters shall be of the type described in the Electronic Power Design U.S. Pat. No. 9,401,605 B2. Specification of each major component of the hybrid power generation plant are disclosed herein.

[0270] In a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention, the hybrid power generation plant includes but is not limited to a marine main propulsion generator control and distribution switchboard, referred to herein as a main propulsion switchboard or “MPS” for the control and protection of six (6) 600 kW, 690 Volt AC, 3-phase, 3-wire, 0.8 PF, 750 kVA diesel engine generator sets with automatic parallel operation. The MPS also has two (2) 690 Volt AC, 2500 Amp AC, 3 phase, 60 Hz tin-plated copper main buses rated for 65 kAIC (Bus “A”& Bus “B”) separated by a tie breaker. The engine generators can be powered by other hydrocarbon fuels, such as gasoline or natural gas. The MPS provides parallel capable operation and control of the six diesel generators. The MPS has two incomer breakers—one per bus that tie the main bus to battery inverters attached to the two batteries. The MPS, located in an Engine Room, is skid mounted. The MPS is designed and provided as described in this Specification. The switchboard is constructed by a UL-891 certified facility.

[0271] The propulsion system vendor / integrator wiring diagrams and shop drawings of the switchboard are provided prior to fabrication. The wiring diagrams and shop drawings shall clearly show design, construction material, finish installation, front layout, point to point wiring diagrams, material list, mounting details, and label plate list including floaters for terminal blocks. The manufacturer provides three complete sets and one wiring diagrams and shop drawings of as-built drawings of the switchboard and cut sheets of the components to the contractor for delivery to the Client. Switchboard components listed in this specification and all others required for a complete system are provided.

[0272] Factory tests are performed to show the full functionality of the hybrid power generation plant which includes but is not limited to a power management system (PMS) and a main propulsion switchboard (MPS) automation to control all generators and the distribution of power in an automatic mode. Rubber matting with dielectric resistance are provided in front of all switchboards. A propulsion vendor / integrator performs Short Circuit and Device Evaluation Studies, a Protective Device Coordination Study, and a Harmonic Study. The studies include all major AC electrical power distribution systems aboard the vessel.

[0273] An MPS enclosure is provided as a drip proof enclosure having a dead front, all steel construction. All operating controls and indicators are front mounted and are fully accessible by hinged panels. All other components are accessible by removable front, side, and rear panels. Construction allows for cables entering the bottom of the MPS. The MPS base is appropriately sized openings for possible cable entrance. All front instrument panels are formed on all sides and hinged. Front panels covering molded case distribution circuit breakers are formed, hinged, and bolted. Side and rear panels are flat sheets, bolted on. All formed and bolted panels are fastened with center seeking, knurled head, captive screws, and floating nut block assemblies. All formed and hinged front panels are fastened with open and turn flush clamps. All hinged panels are equipped with door positioners for holding the panel in an open position during access to internally mounted components. Non-conducting grab rails are provided across the entire front of the switchboard.

[0274] Bus bars are provided and are made of commercially pure copper. All bus bars are tin, or silver plated over their entire length. Bolts, washers, and nuts used to maintain bus contact shall be of corrosion resistant material or appropriately plated. All bolts in bus connections shall be torque wrench tightened to an appropriate uniform value for each size bolt and marked across all joints with permanent marker or paint pen. The mechanical strength, bracing and supports of the bus is designed for a symmetrical RMS short circuit current of 65 kA.

[0275] All electrical components are selected to operate satisfactorily in a 45° C. ambient temperature and shall be as described below.Circuit breakers are quick-make, quick-break, trip free, with tripping mechanisms capable of safely opening the circuit they protect while subjected to the maximum fault current. All poles are opened simultaneously by a common trip mechanism. Trip elements or sensors are calibrated or ambient compensated for operation in a 45° C. ambient temperature, or properly de-rated in accordance with the circuit breaker manufacturer's instructions for use in ambient temperatures above 40° C. Breaker frame size, nominal trip setting, and de-rated trip setting shall be shown on the main propulsion switchboard design drawings, as-built electrical one-line diagram, and on the engraved breaker ID plate attached to the front of the switchboard. All circuit breakers are mounted in such a manner that the breakers may be removed from the front without disconnecting line or load bus or power cable terminations.

[0276] The circuit breakers are removable draw-out air circuit breakers or power circuit breakers, with motorized spring charged operators and adjustable electronic trip logic units, rated at 65 kAIC minimum. The circuit breakers accept remote open and close signals from the PMS or switchboard mounted manual actuation switches, and are equipped with auxiliary contacts, under voltage trips, and shunt trips to provide a functional and operable system. Each shall be provided with means to lock in the open position. All rotary type instruments, control, and circuit breaker switches are oil-tight and clearly labeled for function. All under-voltage trip (UV) devices are 24 VDC from a battery source, to prevent tripping during power transfer operations.

[0277] Instruments are constructed to minimize damage from dust or moisture. Instrument fuses are of the non-renewable cartridge type. The instrument fuses are accessible from the front of the switchboard through the hinged panels containing the instruments and controls they protect. Instrument and control wire are a minimum of 14 AWG, type SIS, except for electronic component connections, which are 18 AWG, flame retarding, flexible switchboard wire, or equal. Each wire end shall be fitted with a permanent sleeve type wire number and terminated with vinyl insulated compression lugs, applied with a closed cycle tool, where component terminations permit. Wires terminating in DIN Rail type screw compression terminal blocks have compression end sleeves over the conductor for protection and strength. Spring cage or push in wire capture type terminals is preferred over screw down type connections if available. Switchboard wiring is run neatly and properly supported. Grommets are provided to protect wiring where it passes through metal panels. Components required to be interconnected with external equipment wired to barrier type terminal boards that are readily accessible and clearly marked. The secondary of all current transformers are wired to shorting type terminal blocks. Wiring duct, cable tie mounting devices, clamps or clips are permanently fastened. Any adhesives used are epoxy type. Foam or double sided tape is specifically prohibited.

[0278] Control components for each generator control compartment (6 each):Qty. 1 Siemens or Schneider power circuit breaker, 630 AF, draw out, electrically operated, with Shunt Trip (ST) or Undervoltage Trip (UVT), 4a and 4b auxiliary contacts, long time, short time, and instantaneous trip, and bell alarmQty. 1 Set of potential transformers with primary and secondary fuses, as required

[0280] Qty. 3 Current transformers, as

[0281] required Qty. 1 Control power

[0282] transformer

[0283] Qty. 1 Generator “heater on” indicator light

[0284] Qty. 1 Generator heater switch

[0285] Qty. 1 Generator heater relay

[0286] Qty. 1 Circuit breaker control switch, three position (open, close, and neutral)

[0287] Qty. 1 Circuit breaker Closed indicator light

[0288] Qty. 1 Circuit breaker Open indicator light

[0289] Qty. 1 Fault / tripped indicator light

[0290] Qty. 1 Automatic voltage regulator, mounted and wired

[0291] Qty. 1 Manual voltage control, mounted and wired

[0292] Qty. 1 Woodward EasyGen 3500 series digital generator protection and load sharing relay

[0293] Qty. 1 Basler DECS-100 voltage regulator, mounted and wired

[0294] Qty. 1 Voltage control switch, raise-off-lower, spring return to off, or a voltage adjusting potentiometer depending on the type of voltage regulator

[0295] Qty. 1 Digital governor control module, Woodward 2301E, mounted and wired, if required for mechanical engines

[0296] Qty. 1 Speed control switch or potentiometer depending on the governor interface provisions

[0297] Qty. 1 Emergency Stop push / pull button

[0298] Qty. 1 Power Available Light

[0299] Qty. 1 Generator Auto Start Ready Light Control components for each Battery Inverter connection cabinet (2 each):

[0300] Qty. 1 Siemens or Schneider Generator power circuit breaker, 2500 AF, draw out, electrically operated, with Shunt Trip (ST) or Undervoltage Trip (UVT), 4a and 4b auxiliary contacts, long time, short time, and instantaneous trip, and bell alarm

[0301] Qty. 1 Set of potential transformers with primary and secondary fuses, as required

[0302] Qty. 3 Current transformers, as

[0303] required Qty. 1 Control power

[0304] transformer

[0305] Qty. 1 Circuit breaker Closed indicator light

[0306] Qty. 1 Circuit breaker Open indicator light

[0307] Qty. 1 Tripped indicator light

[0308] Qty. 1 Metering device

[0309] Qty. 1 Power Available Light

[0310] Qty. 1 Battery Auto Ready

[0311] Light Qty. 1 Battery Alarm

[0312] Light

[0313] Qty. 1 Battery Fault Light

[0314] Components for Bus Tie and Grounding Sections (1 each):

[0315] Qty. 1 Siemens or Schneider Bus tie circuit breaker, 2500 AF, draw out, electrically operated, with ST or UVT, 4a and 4b auxiliary contacts, long time, short time and instantaneous trip and a bell alarm

[0316] Qty. 1 Circuit breaker control switch, three position (open, close, and neutral)

[0317] Qty. 1 Set of circuit breaker status indication lights

[0318] Qty. 1 Set of digital bus ground detection per bus (“A” and

[0319] “B”) Qty. 2 Sets of bus CT's

[0320] Qty. 2 Sets of bus potential transformers (“A” and “B”)

[0321] Qty. 1 Woodward LS-6 load sharing unit with display

[0322] Qty. 1 Set of bus voltage surge suppression systems per bus

[0323] Components for Port Distribution Section (1 each):

[0324] Qty. 1 2500 AF Siemens or Schneider port propulsion motor drive feeder circuit breaker, manually operated, draw out with ST or UVT, 2a and 2b auxiliary contacts, and thermal magnetic trip.

[0325] Qty. 1 250 AF Siemens or Schneider Ship service transformer T-1 feeder circuit breaker, manually operated, plug-in with ST or UVT, 4a and 4b auxiliary contacts, and thermal magnetic trip.

[0326] Qty. 2 250 AF Siemens or Schneider Spare Breaker

[0327] Components for Starboard Distribution Section (1 each):

[0328] Qty. 1 2500 AF Siemens or Schneider starboard propulsion motor drive feeder circuit breaker, manually operated, draw out with ST or UVT, 4a and 4b auxiliary contacts, and thermal magnetic trip.

[0329] Qty. 1 250 AF Siemens or Schneider Ship service transformer T-2 feeder circuit breaker, manually operated, plug-in with ST or UVT, 2a and 2b auxiliary contacts, and thermal magnetic trip.

[0330] Qty. 2 250 AF Siemens or Schneider Spare Breakers

[0331] Power Management System (PMS):

[0332] Qty. 1 Programmable Logic Controller, (PLC), Siemens S7 PLC based

[0333] Qty. 1 7″ Siemens HMI touchscreen

[0334] Qty. 1 PLC Fail Light

[0335] Qty. 1 Local Mode Select Switch, Manual—Auto

[0336] The PMS as part of the hybrid power generation plant contains one or more processors that controls the six propulsion generators and have breakers to connect the battery inverters to the main buss. The switchboard is arranged for automatic and manual parallel operation of propulsion generators in any combination. A processor in the Power Management System (PMS), in automatic mode, monitors and controls the power available to the propulsion main motors, decide on the most efficient combination of battery / generators automatically for the current load based on power demand. Generators start priority switches and controls are provided for each generator to determine a start order of generators when the PMS is in control. A remote indication in the Pilot House show the current status of each power source as “connected,”“standby,” or “manual.”Load Monitoring and Limiting

[0337] The switchboard MPS provides a processor and a computer program including computer instructions stored in a non-transitory computer readable medium, wherein the processor executes the computer program and performs automatic load monitoring and provides operator warnings via switchboard indicators and bridge indicators whenever an operating state of the state propulsion generators reach 85% (adjustable) full combined output. As part of the MPS computer program, overload / blackout of the propulsion generators are avoided through automatic propulsion main motor power demand limiting by the VFDs, until additional power has been brought onto the MPS automatically by the PMS, or load has been reduced.

[0338] The batteries storage of power in the hybrid power generation plant is primarily intended to act similar to the “spinning reserve” capacity that is be provided by generators that are connected to the bus. In one operating scenario, the hybrid drone ship operates with only two of six supplied generators running and are connected to the bus along with the battery inverters. If a situation arises where the hybrid power generation plant provides full power to the propulsion motors, the battery bank and the inverters provide the remaining power needed to provide full power to drone ship propulsion thrusters for a period of 90 seconds during which the PMS starts some or all of the remaining generators and connects them to the main bus.

[0339] The battery and inverter system are also used in peak sharing mode while in operation to reduce the run time on the diesel generators. The battery and inverter system is also used when the hybrid drone ship is docked at ports to reduce emission and fuel consumption.

[0340] Specification for Battery Banks (2 Each):

[0341] 283 kWh storage capacity with a 4C discharge rate for a period of 90 seconds

[0342] Battery voltage ranging from 640 VDC to 1100 VDC with 880 VDC nominal voltage

[0343] Battery Management System (BMS) that dictates charge / discharge rates and acts as a monitoring and protection device for the battery.

[0344] CAN, Profibus, Modbus or similar standards for communication between the BMS and the vessels power management system.

[0345] Ventilation for hot gases in case of thermal run away of any of the battery cells.Battery Inverter Specifications

[0346] The battery inverters for this vessel are split into one port side battery inverter and one starboard side battery inverter. The battery inverters are liquid cooled.

[0347] Specification for Battery Inverters (2 each):

[0348] 1900 kW AC power at 690 VAC

[0349] DC voltage rating range of 640 VDC-1100 VDC

[0350] VACON NX, Avid Extreme AFE Drive technology, or equal

[0351] LCL filters / Isolation transformers

[0352] The inverter package should be able to charge and discharge the battery bank and mode of operation and power level shall be dictated by the vessel's power management system

[0353] Profibus or Profinet Communication to the Pms.

[0354] Two separate and enclosed rooms are provided to house the port and starboard battery banks and inverters. These enclosed rooms are at least 108 inches wide, 96 inches deep and 80 inches tall. The room is insulated. Air conditioning is provided to keep the enclosed rooms cooler than the adjacent engine room temperature. The air conditioning is not intended to remove the heat loss from battery banks and inverters, but to prevent condensation on the liquid cooled equipment. The battery and inverter vendor provide ambient heat loss data to properly size this air conditioner.Propulsion Variable Frequency Drives

[0355] The propulsion main motors are controlled a processor as part of the hybrid power generation plant through variable frequency drives (VFDs). Each VFD is a 6-pulse two (2) quadrant, reversing, non-regenerative, variable torque, AC variable frequency drive. The drive is rated for 690 volts AC, 3-phase, 60Hz input and 1875 kW minimum, 2000 amps AC continuous and at 110 % for 1 minute.

[0356] The VFD is liquid cooled and has the following features:

[0357] Qty. 1 VACON NX, Avid Extreme AC Drive technology, or equal

[0358] Qty. 1 3-phase AC line reactor

[0359] Qty. 1 6-Pulse Diode Front End (DFE) converter / rectifierty. 1 Inverter section

[0360] Qty. 1 450 kW Brake Chopper circuit for regenerative current

[0361] Qty. 1 Dynamic braking resistor, stainless steel enclosed, 50% duty cycle forced ventilation, remotely mounted by others

[0362] Each VFD shall be complete with the following:

[0363] Qty. 1 Set of IP-22 enclosures.

[0364] Qty. 1 Operator Keypad, door mounted

[0365] Qty. 1 PROFIBUS or PROFINET communication card

[0366] Qty. 1 Emergency stop pull-button

[0367] VFD Propulsion Control shall consist of the following:

[0368] As part of the processor in the hybrid power generation plant run marine specific propulsion control software, as part of the hybrid power generation plant wherein the control software is provided as a computer program stored in a non-transitory computer readable medium, including but not limited to the following features:

[0369] Redundant PROFIBUS or PROFINET communication

[0370] Fast acting characteristics to adapt propeller load to diesel engine capability to prevent possible black outs

[0371] Characteristics to reduce propeller speed during emergence out of water, and to smooth load increases when returning into water

[0372] Speed mode control for maneuvering for immediate response

[0373] Step-less switching from speed control to power control mode depending on vessel speed to simplify operation and ensure best power station efficiency

[0374] No limitation in power drawn from gensets depending on sea and operational conditions, i.e. each genset can be loaded 100% and ensures an efficient utilization of the power station

[0375] Handling of conventional propellers with two-rotational directions

[0376] Standardized interface to propeller controlDynamic Load Limitation (DLL)

[0377] As part of the hybrid power generation plant computer program, a processor in the hybrid power generation plant executes a computer program that provides DLL control that limits the power of the heavy load drive according to actual generator capacity. This means the drive is not seen as a heavy consumer and can start the main motors with only two generators running. As part of the hybrid power generation plant the internal control system in the VFD limits its power consumption to the actual generator maximum load capability. The PMS starts an additional generator and then the hybrid power generation plant computer program in the VFD control increases power up to the new limit, and so on. In case of a trip of one of the generators, the remaining generator(s) can be overloaded. The DLL system detects this and limits the power consumption of the propulsion system. The part of the hybrid power generation plant computer program in the VFD responds sufficiently fast so that a “Black-Out” of the remaining generators is avoided.

[0378] The DLL system is part of the VFD and works independently of but as part of the PMS, all of which being a part of the hybrid diesel power generation system processor. No additional external control signals are needed other than the signals of the generator power and, if necessary, the status of the bus-tie breakers.

[0379] A ship service (SS) switchboard as part of the hybrid power generation plant computer program provides for control and distribution of 3-phase, 208 / 120 VAC electrical power for the vessels non-propulsion equipment. The 208 / 120 VAC power is derived from the main switchboard (port and starboard) through two ship service transformers, each rated at 162.5 kVA or from a shore power supply. The switchboard provides for non-parallel operation of either ship service transformer or the shore power feed. The ship service switchboard includes but is not limited to a phase monitoring system that indicates a phase rotation of the shore power connection and prevents a shore power breaker from being closed if the shore power phase rotation is incorrect.

[0380] Active harmonic filters are installed either inside the ship service switchboard or remotely mounted and connected to the switchboard. The active harmonic filter is sized to maintain a harmonic content on the ship service switchboard under ABS approved limits when both propulsion motors are operating at rated power. The active harmonic filter employs EPD patented sensing technology for optimal sizing.

[0381] The ship service switchboard, located on the equipment skid, is mounted and sway braced to the surrounding structure. The switchboard is constructed by a UL-891 certified facility. Verification of certification shall be provided to the Client. The switchboard is installed in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard 46 CFR 111.30-1. The switchboard manufacturer provides wiring diagrams and shop drawings of the switchboard to the Client prior to fabrication. The drawings shall clearly show design, construction material, finished installation, front layout, point to point wiring diagrams, material list, mounting details, and label plate list including floaters for terminal blocks. The manufacturer shall provide to the Client three complete sets, as well as electronic sets in . PDF format, of as-built drawings of the switchboard and cut sheets of the components. Switchboard components listed in this specification and all others required for a complete system shall be provided. The switchboard is demonstrated during onsite tests at the manufacturer's facility, or Contractor's facility to fully provide operating logic that accomplishes the functionality and operation specified in the below paragraphs.

[0382] The switch service switchboard is drip proof enclosed, having a dead front, and all steel construction. All operating controls and indicators shall be front mounted and fully accessible by hinged panels. All other components shall be accessible by removable front, side, and rear panels. Construction allows for cables entering the top or bottom of the switchboard. The switchboard frame shall be constructed of cold rolled formed steel and / or structural steel angles bolted together into a rigid framework. The bottom shall be completely open for possible cable entrance. All front instrument panels are formed on all sides and hinged. Front panels covering molded case distribution circuit breakers shall be formed and bolted. Side and rear panels are flat sheets and bolted on. All formed and bolted panels shall be fastened with center seeking, knurled head, captive screws, and floating nut block assemblies. All formed and hinged front panels are fastened with open and turn flush clamps. All hinged panels shall be equipped with door positioners for holding the panel in the open position during access to internally mounted components. Non-conducting grab rails are provided across the entire front of the switchboard.

[0383] Bus bars are provided and are made of commercially pure copper and sized in accordance with the table in the 2002 revision of IEEE-45. All bus bars are made of tin or silver plated over their entire length. Bolts, washers, and nuts used to maintain bus contact are made of corrosion resistant material or appropriately plated. All bolts in bus connections are torque wrench tightened to an appropriate uniform value for each size bolt. After final tightening, each bus bolt, nut, and washer is marked with a line going across them to an adjacent area of the bus with a permanent marker or paint pen. The mechanical strength, bracing and supports of the bus shall be designed for a symmetrical RMS short circuit current of 25 kA.

[0384] All electrical components are selected to operate satisfactorily in a 45° C. ambient temperature and shall be as described below. Circuit breakers are quick-make, quick-break, trip free, with tripping mechanisms capable of safely opening the circuit they protect while subjected to the maximum fault current of 25 kA. All poles shall be opened simultaneously by a common trip mechanism. Trip elements or sensors in the Engine Room shall be calibrated or ambient compensated for operation in a 45° C. ambient temperature, or properly de-rated in accordance with the circuit breaker manufacturer's instructions for use in ambient temperatures above 40° C. Breaker frame size, nominal trip setting, and de-rated trip setting shall be shown on the switchboard design drawings, as-built electrical one-line diagram, and on the engraved breaker ID plate attached to the front of the switchboard. The ship service transformer feed and shore power feed circuit breakers shall be mounted in such a manner that the breakers may be removed from the front without disconnecting line or load bus or power cable terminations through use of draw-out breakers or heavy duty plug-in bases for molded case circuit breakers.

[0385] Switchboard Components: The following description of switchboard components provided within various compartments is for guidance only and does not dictate the final design and arrangement. It is the manufacturer's responsibility to furnish all components required for a complete and workable system. Switchboard manufacturers shall provide sufficiently detailed descriptive information about the switchboard including all drawings, parts lists, operating description, and other documentation to obtain regulatory and owner approvals.

[0386] Control components for each transformer monitoring compartment:

[0387] Qty. 1 Set of potential transformers with primary and secondary fuses, as required

[0388] Qty. 3 Current transformers, as required

[0389] Qty. 1 Control power transformer

[0390] Qty. 1 Transformer feed multifunction meter, SATEC PM130EH Plus Power Meter

[0391] Qty. 1 Circuit breaker control switch, three position (open, close, and neutral)

[0392] Qty. 1 Circuit Breaker Closed indicator light

[0393] Qty. 1 Phase Sequence / Balance Monitor (PSBM), shore power feed only Qty.

[0394] 1 Power Available Light

[0395] Qty. 1 Ground Detection Panel

[0396] This switchboard shall control two (2) ship service transformers and one (1) shore power feed. The switchboard shall be interlocked so that only one transformer or the shore power source may feed the switchboard at any time. It is electrically interlocked to provide OPEN TRANSITION transfers only between shore power supply and ship service transformer supply, and from one ship service transformer to the other.

[0397] Two ship service transformers each rated at 162.5 kVA, 690 VAC to 120 / 208 VAC 3 phase 60 Hz shall be provided. The transformers are mounted in the engine / propulsion room and should be able to operate at rated current at 45 C ambient temperature.

[0398] The active harmonic is used to maintain the harmonic content on the ship service switchboard under ABS approved limits.

[0399] The Active Harmonic Filter has the following features:

[0400] Qty. 1 Comsys, AccuSine or other equivalent manufacturer active harmonic filter with sensor-less technology sized for a 162.5 kVA transformer.

[0401] Qty. 1 Normally closed fail safe warning system that triggers if the filter fails or if the harmonic content on the switchboard rises above allowed limits.

[0402] A 13 in to 15 in HMI digital display with built-in dimmer control shall be mounted in the Pilot House side console to display all propulsion related information, as well as all monitoring alarm and control system information from the rest of the vessel. The display is a touch screen type, with paged displays, and virtual control buttons or switches for remote control of specified functions.

[0403] Systems are displayed in clear and simple Client approved MIMIC bus arrangements. MIMIC bus is a one-line diagram on the face of the Switchboard showing the principal connections and electrical components of the system. Monitored points, devices and systems shall have the data collected in local 1 / 0 panels located below the main deck. The collected data shall be distributed to the Pilot House HMI display through a communication link. A slave alarm display is located in the Engine Room, and shall only have display functions, with no control functions other than alarm acknowledgement and silence.

[0404] Independent propulsion VFD emergency shutdown switches shall be provided at the side console. Other controls and displays shall be provided as required by rules and regulations. All meters, displays and panels shall be drop in type, for installation in shipyard provided consoles.

[0405] The hybrid power generation plant provides a trailer segregated into two rooms. The room partition at the rear of the trailer is called the “transformer room” and contains the large four-winding transformer positioned over the axles. The forward room called the “switchgear room” contains the medium voltage switchgear and other controls.

[0406] The transformer room will be well ventilated using filtered louvers in the side walls. The minimum square inches of louver area will be specified by EPD. The requirement for louver space is expected to be no less than 5700 square inches. The louvered openings shall be provided with solid hinged metal doors to cover the openings for transit. The doors must include provisions to latch open while in operation and latch closed while in transit.The approximate dimensions of the transformer are 105″L×70″W×105″H. The approximate weight is 24,000 lbs. The floor level of the transformer room will be recessed as low as possible in order to provide a minimum of 110″ internal floor to internal ceiling height. The transformer will require a 120V power circuit installed by the trailer manufacturer from the 240 / 120V Square-D panelboard in the switchgear room. A communication cable is installed from the transformer to the PLC control panel in the switchgear room.

[0407] The rear of the trailer has a cargo doors with a minimum height of 107″. EPD intends to install micro switches inside the cargo doors to signal the open / closed status of the doors. The control wiring for the micro switches from the rear doors to the PLC control cabinet in the switchboard room will be installed by the trailer manufacturer. The doors require provisions for mechanical locks.

[0408] In addition to the main transformer, the room will contain three (3) smaller neutral forming transformers. The approximate dimensions and weight for each are 22″×20″×15″ at 250 lbs. Three (3) grounding resistors will be in this room as well, each with approximate dimensions of 29″×21″×16″. EPD will design a structure or sheet metal enclosure to stack these items.

[0409] The hybrid power generation plant further provides a switchgear room which is climate controlled with a 3 ton wall mounted Bard A / C unit. The exterior and interior walls of this room shall be well insulated. The partition wall separating the transformer room from the switchgear room will not contain a door but shall be internally framed for a future door. This wall shall have an observation window, approximately 6″×18″ or nearest standard size, in order to view into the transformer room while standing in the switchgear room.

[0410] The medium voltage switchgear lineup inside this room will be approximately 89″L×48″0×89″H. The weight will be approximately 3000 lbs. In addition to the medium voltage lineup, this room will contain the 24V power distribution, 240 / 120V panel, transfer switch, and a PLC control panel. The approximate weight of the additional panels is 1500 lbs.

[0411] A 240 / 120V, 30 circuit Square-D panelboard is provided by the trailer manufacturer. EPD will prepare a circuit diagram for this system in collaboration with the trailer manufacturer. The 240 / 120V system will feed into a battery backed up 24V DC system provided by EPD. The battery backed 24V DC power will be distributed to the switchgear controls and to select lighting circuits. The remaining lighting circuits will be powered by non-battery backed up power. The lights and lighting wiring is to be provided and installed by the trailer manufacturer.**

[0412] In a particular illustrative embodiment of the invention a hybrid power generation plant system for a drone ship is disclose, the system comprising a plurality of diesel engines; an electrical bus switchably attached to the plurality of diesel engines, a batteries switchably attached to the electrical bus; a load comprising a drone ship propulsion load attached to the electrical bus; a hybrid power source for servicing a system load, the hybrid power source comprising a diesel engine and a battery; a processor the executes a computer program of instructions stored in a non-transitory computer readable medium; a computer program comprising instructions stored in the non-transitory computer readable medium that are executed by the processor, the computer program comprising, instructions determining a current system load serviced by power provided from the hybrid power source; instructions to determine a current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery; instructions to determine a new operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to reduce power consumption servicing the current system load the diesel engine and the battery; and instructions to replace the current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to the new operating state for the diesel engine and the battery.

[0413] In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, the operating state comprises a load on the battery, a load on the diesel engine, speed of the diesel engine and air fuel mixture supplied to the diesel engine and torque of the diesel engine. In another illustrative embodiment of the invention the computer program further comprises instructions to determine when the load requires additional power; instructions to connect the batteries to the bus for a period of 90 seconds when the load requires additional power; and instructions to connect additional generators to the bus during the 90 seconds.

[0414] In another illustrative embodiment of the invention the computer program further comprises instructions to limit power demand until the additional generators are connected to the bus. In another illustrative embodiment of the invention the computer program further comprises instructions to add batteries to the bus during high power demand from the load. In another illustrative embodiment of the invention the computer program further comprises instructions to remove generators from the bus during low power demand from the load. In another illustrative embodiment of the invention the computer program is a neural network.

[0415] In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, a method is disclosed comprising determining using a computer program a current system load serviced by power provided from a hybrid power source for servicing a system load, the hybrid power source comprising a diesel engine and a battery; determining a current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery; determining a new operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to reduce for power consumption servicing the current system load the diesel engine and the battery; and replacing the current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to the new operating state for the natural gas engine, the diesel engine and the battery.

[0416] In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, a method is disclosed wherein the operating state comprises a load on the diesel engine, speed of the diesel engine and air fuel mixture supplied to the diesel engine, wherein the operating state further comprises torque of the diesel engine. In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises determining when the load requires additional power; connecting the batteries to the bus for a period of 90 seconds when the load requires additional power; and connecting additional generators to the bus during the 90 seconds.

[0417] In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises limiting power demand until the additional generators are connected to the bus. In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises removing generators from the bus during low power demand from the load. In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, the computer program is a neural network. In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, a hybrid diesel power generation system is disclosed comprising a computer readable medium contain instructions that are executed a processor in data communication with a non-transitory computer readable medium to control a hybrid power source for servicing a system load, the hybrid power source comprising a diesel engine and a battery, the computer program comprising instructions stored in the non-transitory computer readable medium that are executed by the processor, the computer program comprising, instructions to cause the load processor to determine a current system load serviced by power provided from the hybrid power source; instructions for the processor to determine a current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery; instructions for the processor to determine a new operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to reduce power consumption servicing the current system load the diesel engine and the battery; and instructions for the processor to replace the current operating state for the diesel engine and the battery to the new operating state for the natural gas engine, the diesel engine and the battery.

[0418] In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, the operating state comprises a load on the diesel engine, speed of the diesel engine and air fuel mixture supplied to the diesel engine, wherein the operating state further comprises torque of the diesel engine.In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, the computer program further comprises instructions to determine when the load requires additional power; instructions to connect the batteries to the bus for a period of 90 seconds when the load requires additional power; and instructions to connect additional generators to the bus during the 90 seconds.

[0419] In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, the computer program further comprises instructions to limit power demand until the additional generators are connected to the bus. In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, the computer program further comprises instructions to remove generators from the bus during low power demand from the load. In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, the computer program is an expert system.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0020]A detailed description will now be provided. The purpose of this detailed description, which includes the drawings, is to satisfy the statutory requirements of 35 U.S.C. § 112. For example, the detailed description includes a description of inventions defined by the claims and sufficient information that would enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the inventions. In the figures, like elements are generally indicated by like reference numerals regardless of the view or figure in which the elements appear. The figures are intended to assist the description and to provide a visual representation of certain aspects of the subject matter described herein. The figures are not all necessarily drawn to scale, nor do they show all the structural details, nor do they limit the scope of the claims.

[0021]Each of the appended claims defines a separate invention which, for infringement purposes, is recognized as including equivalents of the various elements or lim...

Claims

1. A hybrid power generation system for an unmanned vessel, comprising:a gas turbine configured to provide mechanical power for vessel propulsion;a secondary electrical generator configured in at least one of:(i) an independent engine driven generator, and(ii) a generator mechanically coupled to the gas turbine via a power take-off (PTO) shaft;an electrical distribution bus electrically coupled to the secondary generator;at least one variable frequency drive (VFD) configured to control an electric thruster powered from the electrical distribution bus;a harmonic mitigation subsystem electrically coupled to the electrical distribution bus; anda power management system (PMS) configured to autonomously manage power flow among the gas turbine, the secondary generator, and the electrical distribution bus,wherein the PMS monitors power quality metrics including at least harmonic distortion and frequency variation and dynamically controls at least one of generation, filtering, or load allocation to maintain stable electrical power for VFD-controlled thruster and sensitive vessel systems.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the secondary generator is mechanically coupled to the gas turbine via the PTO shaft and produces variable-frequency alternating current dependent on gas turbine rotational speed,and wherein the system further comprises a power electronics module configured to:rectify the variable-frequency alternating current to direct current; andinvert the direct current to a regulated alternating current having a substantially fixed frequency suitable for distribution on the electrical distribution bus.

3. An unmanned surface vessel, comprising:a gas turbine providing primary propulsion;a hybrid power generation system according to claim 1;at least one electric thruster controlled by a variable frequency drive; andonboard automation, control, and communication systems powered by the electrical distribution bus,wherein the hybrid power generation system is configured to operate autonomously without onboard human intervention.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the secondary generator comprises an independent diesel engine-generator operating at a fixed nominal electrical frequency.

5. The system of claim 1, further comprising a battery energy storage system electrically coupled to the electrical distribution bus and controlled by a battery management system.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the battery energy storage system is configured to provide at least one of:peak load support during high electrical demand events;transient power during generator transitions; oremergency backup power for mission-critical systems.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the harmonic mitigation subsystem comprises at least one of:passive harmonic filters;active harmonic compensation units;isolation transformers; orwaveform correction software implemented in power electronics or inverters.

8. The system of claim 1, further comprising a dual-bus electrical architecture including:a primary electrical bus supplying propulsion loads; anda secondary electrically isolated bus supplying sensitive loads,wherein the secondary bus is electrically isolated from the primary bus by at least one isolation transformer or filter.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the sensitive loads comprise at least one of sensors, programmable logic controllers, navigation equipment, communication systems, or weapon systems.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the PMS is configured to continuously monitor total harmonic distortion on the electrical distribution bus and dynamically adjusts filters or reroutes power flows to protect critical systems.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the PMS dynamically allocates electrical load among the gas turbine, secondary generator, and battery system to optimize at least one of fuel efficiency, emissions, or power quality.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the harmonic mitigation subsystem is configured to protect the variable frequency drive controlled thruster from voltage distortion and frequency instability from other electrical loads.

13. A method of operating a hybrid power generation system on an unmanned vessel, comprising:generating mechanical propulsion power using a gas turbine;generating electrical power using a secondary generator configured as either a PTO-driven generator or an independent engine driven generator;distributing the electrical power to an electrical bus supplying at least one VFD-controlled thruster;monitoring electrical power quality including harmonic distortion and frequency variation; andautonomously adjusting at least one of power generation, filtering, frequency regulation, or load allocation to maintain stable electrical power.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein generating electrical power using the PTO-driven generator further comprises:producing variable-frequency alternating current as a function of gas turbine speed;converting the variable-frequency alternating current to direct current; andconverting the direct current to regulated alternating current at a substantially fixed frequency prior to distribution.

15. The method of claim 13, further comprising automatically detecting electrical conditions and reconfiguring power sources or loads without human intervention.

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