System and method for providing a performance baseline to a vessel

Abstract

The present invention relates to system and a method for monitoring operational performance and condition of a vessel, by providing an initial baseline to a vessel performance model for optimizing the operational performance and condition data information which can be available from the first day of active operation of the vessel. The present invention addresses this by presenting a method for providing a performance baseline, based on initial data information, related to a vessels operative performance state, wherein the vessel comprises at least one engine and at least one propeller, wherein a control system is configured to process said data information retrieved from the vessel, wherein the method comprises following acts determining an initial sequence, wherein the initial sequence comprise a plurality of combinations of propeller pitch and propeller RPM measured, relative to each other, operating the vessel according to the initial sequence within a test period, retrieving data information related to each of the plurality of combinations of propeller pitch and propeller RPM measured relative to each other, retrieving at least one first condition information from a condition source, generating said vessel performance model from the data information and the condition information, predicting at least one performance baseline information related to the vessel, based on the vessel performance model of the vessel, such that the vessel's engine and propeller is operated according to the performance baseline information relative to the vessel's operational performance state.

Description

[0001] System and method for providing a performance baseline to a vessel.

[0002] Field of invention

[0003] The present invention relates to system and a method for monitoring operational performance and condition of a vessel.

[0004] Background of the invention

[0005] Monitoring operational performance and condition of a vessel, especially a larger vessel, is one of the most important tasks performed during operation, and a main source for optimizing operational performance and reducing maintenance costs. A system may involve automated data gathering and analysis procedures, to assess the correct functioning of the system, and for early-detection of incipient failures.

[0006] For example, the fuel consumption of a vessel is depending on the propeller performance and engine performance during operation, wherein the performance may depend on propeller pitch, rotational speed, speed of advance in water, and external influences such as wind load, sea load, towing load, and similar.

[0007] As described in the document, WO 2019 / 086086 Al, a method for propulsion control by means of an additional propulsion control system to an existing propulsion control system, PCS. The purpose is to minimize the fuel consumption during propulsion of a vessel. The propulsion control system is designed to cooperate with an existing propulsion control system, such that the already existing propulsion control system controls the relationship between the propeller RPM and pitch relative to each other. The problem is that the additional propulsion control system controls the propeller RPM and pitch relative to each other, based on a large amount of the data information, which mostly is corrupted and non-comparable, while being retrieved or being processed. The data may become inaccessible, unreadable, unretrievable, for example due to noise related to the vessels operating circumstances.

[0008] The document, US20100274420, describes a method and systems, which are provided for improving the efficiency of a vessel's propulsion system by dynamically and continuously reconfiguring propulsion system settings in response to varying vessel operating conditions. The method comprises independently adjusting each of an engine setting and a propeller setting responsive to estimated vessel operating data, wherein the estimated data are estimated in real-time. The estimated data is used to update a propeller performance map or curve, and an engine performance map or curve. The calculations can be performed based on dynamical mathematical models of the ship.

[0009] The problem related to the solution presented in the document, US20100274420, is related to the lack of retrieving reliable amount of data information to provide the information, which is needed for optimizing the performance of the engine and propeller settings, relative to the vessel operation in real-time, because it is found that a large amount of the data information may get corrupted, non-comparable, or lost due to various reasons, while being retrieved or being processed. The data may become inaccessible, unreadable, unretrievable, for example due to noise related to the vessels operating circumstances. Furthermore, it will take a lot of time to retrieve a useful amount of data information for processing, based on the lack of valid data. Furthermore, changing settings continuously requires a large amount of processing capacity, which must be provided on the vessel. The crew prefers stabile settings when operating the vessel, such that the crew can operate in a less stressful environment.

[0010] Using operational performance and condition data information as input for a calculation of the mathematical model of the vessel, often lacks the reliable data information to provide a useful result. The data information, which is retrieved is in a poor state, because the data information retrieved during operation, is corrupted, noncomparable or invalid due to the circumstances the data information is retrieved by. The data retrieved is, therefore, unreliable and must be checked, recalculated, and approved before use. A lot of data information is discarded for the same reason. To provide a useful amount of data, a lot of data must be collected, tested, and validated, which is very time consuming. This is a huge problem in real-time vessel operating systems using real-time measured data.

[0011] Furthermore, a vessel is operated according to available vessel propulsion information based on the data information available. If the vessel propulsion information is not accurate according to the state of the vessel, it will in worst case cause damage the vessels equipment, which will increase costs and a long down time for the vessel. During active operation a large safety buffer is provided between what the vessel is capable of when the vessel becomes active, and what the vessel is capable of when the vessel has been active for a while. This reduces the performance of the vessel and increase the energy consumption considerably.

[0012] The document, W02020 / 02574 Al, disclose a method for optimizing an efficiency of a vessel on a voyage. The vessel being controllable by changing a set of adjustable control parameters via a set of control levers. The historical data may be based on design data of the propeller RPM and pitch provided by from the manufacturer. The data-driven model is trained on the historical data. The historical operating data sets is retrieved during operation and stored. A data driven model is related to the operational behaviour of the vessel. Motion of the vessel, such as roll, and pitch are predicted using models derived from historical data. The data information does not relate to the specific vessel’s condition from day one of active operation.

[0013] The problem related to the solution presented in the document, W02020 / 02574 Al, is related to the lack of retrieving reliable amount of reliable data information before the vessel enters an active operation. Reliable data information is needed for optimizing the performance of the engine and propeller settings, relative to the vessel operation in real-time. A large amount of the data information may get corrupted, non-comparable, or lost due to various reasons, while being retrieved or being processed during active operation. Furthermore, also for the teaching from W02020 / 02574 Al, changing settings continuously requires a large amount of processing capacity, which must be provided on the vessel. Furthermore, a vessel may be operated according to available vessel propulsion information, based on the data information provided to a mathematical model, and lack the information regarding realtime condition of the vessel, and it is, therefore, not possible to provide an optimal solution for operating the vessel at sea.

[0014] Summary of the invention

[0015] It is an object of the present invention to overcome these problems, by providing a method for optimizing the operational performance baseline and condition data information available from the first day of active operation of a vessel.

[0016] It is further object of the present invention, to provide a useful vessel performance model, which relates to a specific vessel, and wherein the vessel performance model is available and useful from the first day of active operation of the vessel. The present invention addresses this by presenting a method for providing a performance baseline information, based on initial data information, related to a vessels operative performance state, wherein the vessel comprises at least one engine and at least one propeller, wherein a control system is configured to process said data information retrieved from the vessel, wherein the method comprises following acts: determining an initial sequence, wherein the initial sequence comprise a plurality of predetermined combinations of propeller pitch and propeller revolutions per minute, RPM, measured, relative to each other, operating the vessel according to the initial sequence within a test period, retrieving said data information related to said combinations of propeller pitch and propeller RPM measured relative to each other, retrieving at least one first condition information from a condition source, generating a vessel performance model from the data information and the first condition information, predicting at least one performance baseline information related to the vessel, based on the vessel performance model related to the vessel, such that the vessel’s engine and propeller are operated according to the performance baseline information relative to the vessel’s operational performance state.

[0017] The method provides an initial baseline of data information, such that the performance of the engine and propeller settings are optimized relative to the specific vessel. The initial baseline of data information provides a useful vessel performance model, which relates to the specific vessel when used as input to the vessel performance model. The vessel performance model is available from the first day of active operation of the vessel. The vessel performance model may be continuously modified according to the state of the vessel.

[0018] During an initial test procedure, such as a sea-trail, the vessel is operated under same conditions as a typical active operational trip. When operating the vessel according to a predetermined initial sequence, within a predetermined baseline test period, it is possible to retrieve and process valid data information within a minimum time frame. The valid data information provides a reliable vessel performance model, which provides performance baseline information for optimal performance of a vessel during operation. The performance baseline information may be transferred to the vessels main control system, such that the vessel is operated according to the performance baseline information.

[0019] Using valid data information as input for a mathematical model of the vessel is essential to operate the vessel at the highest performance for that specific vessel. The performance baseline, based on data information of good data quality, forms an operating starting point for initiating a vessel operational performance state. The initial sequence is a substantially a coherent sequence. The data information is collected while the equipment is substantially at the same state, while executing the initial sequence. Furthermore, the ambient condition is substantially the same, while executing the initial sequence. Knowing the state of the equipment and the ambient condition, it will be possible to provide valid data information of high quality, which provides a reliable vessel performance model of a specific vessel.

[0020] The initial sequence comprises at least one predetermined combination of propeller pitch vs. propeller revolutions per minute, RPM, to establish a useful performance baseline of the propulsor condition of the vessel. The combinations of propeller pitch and propeller revolutions per minute, RPM, measured consecutively relative to each other. Knowing the propulsor condition of a vessel is an important part of the vessel’s operational performance state.

[0021] Operating the vessel according to the initial sequence, the propeller RPM and propeller pitch may be varied relative to each other according to the predetermined combination. The predetermined combination of propeller pitch and propeller revolutions per minute, RPM, may be controlled in consecutive steps relative to each other. Every step of the initial sequence is maintained as long as needed, to retrieve the necessary initial data information. When varying the propeller RPM and propeller pitch relative to each other, the speed and energy consumption may be accessed relative to each other, without any larger interference from the ambient surroundings.

[0022] The condition information may comprise different ambient condition information, such as water and weather condition information. When performing one or more initial trails, each initial sequence is performed during substantially same conditions. This type of data gathering provides a much more comparable data information. The vessel may manoeuvre on different water and weather conditions and can easily be tested under different water and weather conditions. The condition information may be retrieved from measuring devices installed on the vessel, or from external condition sources, such as meteorological suppliers. The vessel may further be tested, by having different weight added on board, to test the performance of the vessel.

[0023] The control system generates a vessel performance model, which can be trained from the data information and at least one condition information. When the initial data information is retrieved from one or more data information sources, at least one initial performance baseline information can be calculated, based on the data information and, if present, at least one first condition information. The data information may comprise initial data information received from manufacturer or manufacturers of the engine / engines and propeller / propellers etc. The vessel performance model may for example be trained on at least one initial performance baseline information. The performance baseline information may comprise initial performance baseline information received from manufacturer or manufacturers of the engine / engines and propeller / propellers and other components etc. The vessel performance model may provide a baseline performance, based on a plurality of initial performance baseline information retrieved from a plurality of initial trails. The vessel performance model may be used, such that the control system may simulate the vessels reactions, relative to the vessel’s operational performance state. The vessel performance model can predict the vessels resources at different conditions and allow for capacity planning and energy optimizing. The performance baseline information, related to the vessel, is based on the vessel performance model of the vessel. The performance baseline information may provide information related to speed vs energy consumption estimated from the initial data information, which comprises actual propeller settings such as propeller pitch vs propeller RPM, which is retrieved from the vessel. The performance baseline information may comprise a reliable propeller curve, which is derived from the vessel’s actual operational performance state. The performance baseline information may also comprise predicted data information related to engine speed setting and / or engine torque setting, and propeller settings, such as propeller pitch setting, rotational speed setting, and propeller torque setting, draft and trim setting etc. When the vessel’s control system receives the performance baseline information from the control system, the vessel’s propeller is controlled according to the performance baseline information and, thereby, reducing the energy consumption relative to the vessel’s operational performance state. The unique vessel performance model provides a reliable propeller curve, such that during use the vessel is operating in a more optimized manner capable of increasing the vessel’s propulsion efficiency, relative to the vessel’s operational performance state. The vessel performance model relates to the specific vessel’s condition from day one of active operation. This ensures that the vessel is capable of operating at a maximum performance, during active operation from day one.

[0024] In a further advantageous method of the invention, the method comprises further acts: retrieving at least one initial condition information from a vessel component during the test period, providing said vessel performance model said initial condition information related to the state of said vessel component, predicting said performance baseline information using the vessel performance model related to the vessel from the data information, the first condition information, and the initial condition information.

[0025] When starting a trail, it is important to know the state of the vessel components, which is actual in the vessel. The vessel components performance may be measured using measuring devices during the test period. The control system may retrieve initial condition information from the measuring devices related to the respective vessel components during the test period. The initial condition information related to the state of said vessel component being integrated in the vessel. The initial condition information is provided to the vessel performance model as a condition information input. The vessel performance model may predict the performance baseline information related using the vessel performance model related to the vessel, when being provided the data information, the first condition information, and the initial condition information as input to the model. The vessel performance model may furthermore be optimized using the same information as input.

[0026] In a further advantageous method of the invention, the method comprises further acts: determining an operational sequence comprising a measuring interval, activating said operational sequence, when the initial sequence is completed, such that a plurality of combinations of propeller pitch and propeller RPM are measured relative to each other during operation, retrieving at least one operational data information related to the operational combination of propeller pitch and propeller RPM during operation of the vessel per measuring interval, retrieving at least one second condition information from the condition source, optimizing the vessel performance model using the operational data information and a second condition information, predicting the performance baseline information for the vessel, based on the optimized vessel performance model related to the vessel, wherein the optimized vessel performance model relates to the vessel’s current operational condition.

[0027] The method comprises further acts of determining an operational sequence comprising a measuring interval. The operational sequence may continuously provide new information to the optimized vessel performance model related to the state of the vessel. To provide a more reliable vessel performance model may result in a more optimized performance baseline information for the vessel. For example, the vessel performance model may be capable of providing more optimized performance baseline information for the vessel, such as an updated propeller curve based on the current state of the vessel.

[0028] The operational sequence may be activated when the initial sequence is completed. The operational sequence comprise a plurality of combinations of propeller pitch and propeller RPM measured relative to each other during operation. When the vessel is performing an intended function in an active operation, such as carrying cargo or passengers, fishing, towing, surveying, etc., the combination of the propeller pitch relative to the propeller RPM may be substantially random when measured, because the propeller pitch and the propeller RPM may be controlled in a manner to perform the specific task. The operational data information may be received. The operational data information may comprise the operational combination of propeller pitch and propeller RPM during active operation of the vessel. The operational sequence may be a non-coherent sequence. When the measurement may be performed the information of combinations of propeller pitch and propeller RPM measured relative to each other may not be known. The measurement may be performed in measuring intervals. The measuring intervals may be predefined.

[0029] When handling the retrieved operational data information, the operational data information may not be directly comparable to the data information retrieved in the initial test procedure. The operational data information may be contaminated, when being measured during different ambient conditions. The second condition information may be retrieved from the condition source. The second condition information may be retrieved at substantially the same time as the operational data information is retrieved. The second condition information may provide information related to the vessels condition during operation, such as sea and / or weather condition, which may influence the operational condition for the vessel. The operational data performance baseline information may be derived from the operational data information and the second condition information. The operational data performance baseline information may be cleaned data information, which may be used directly as input to the vessel performance model. The vessel performance model may be optimized with the operational data performance baseline information within a predetermined performance update interval.

[0030] The optimized vessel performance model of the vessel provides performance baseline information for the vessel based on the vessels current state of operational condition, such that the propeller curve may be optimized relative to the vessel’s current operational performance state.

[0031] In a further advantageous method of the invention, wherein the method comprises further acts of transferring the performance baseline information from said control system to a vessel main control system, wherein the control system is an external control system.

[0032] The vessel may comprise a vessel main control system. The control system may be an external control system located away from the vessel main control system. The external control system may be located away from the vessel. The external control system may be integrated in a cloud solution or similar. The external control system may interact with at least one vessel main control system. The control system may be in direct communication with the vessel main control system and, if preferred, the measuring devices arranged in the vessel. The external control device may be in communication with a plurality of the vessel devices located on a plurality of vessels. The external control device may comprise a plurality of vessel performance models, which are trained separately for each of the respective vessels. The external control system may be configured to provide respective propeller curve and maintenance schedule for each of the respective vessels.

[0033] In a further advantageous method of the invention, wherein the method comprises a further act is predicting the performance baseline information for the vessel within an interval of 24 hours, or more.

[0034] The vessel performance model may be optimized with the latest received operational data performance baseline information, within a predetermined performance update interval. The optimized vessel performance model provides performance baseline information for the vessel based on the vessels current state of operational condition. The performance baseline information may comprise an updated propeller curve. The propeller curve may be optimized relative to the vessel’s current operational performance state. The control system or the vessels main control system may for example operate the vessel according to the updated propeller curve the next 24 hours, or more. The predetermined interval may be depending on the state of the vessel. The state of the vessel may be determined on the state of the vessel equipment. The state of the vessel may be determined on the state of the vessel’s hull, propeller, engine, turbo charger etc. The predetermined interval between the replacement of the propeller curve or other performance baseline information, provides a safe operation of the vessel. The crew, who operates the vessel, relays on a steady state operation, which not continuously changes the operation settings due to a real-time alteration of the performance of the vessel. This also provides the possibility that the control system may be an external system, and the data information flow between the vessels main control system and the control system may be relatively low. The vessels main control system does need to provide means to perform the method as an extra feature. The vessels main control system may easily accommodate updated performance baseline information. In a further advantageous method of the invention, at least one of following condition information is retrieved: vessel manoeuvring, load, trim, wind speed, wind direction, wave height, wave period, wave direction, swell, water current, water dept, water tides, state of at least one vessel component.

[0035] The control system provides at least one vessel performance model which relates to a specific vessel. At least one vessel condition information from at least one vessel component may be measured and retrieved. The vessel condition information comprises at least one state of a vessel component. At least one ambient condition information from at least one at least one dynamic force, acting on the vessel. The ambient condition information may relate to sea condition and wind condition, acting on the vessel. The ambient condition information comprises data information related to dynamic forces, acting on the vessel, such as load, trim, wind speed, wind direction, wave height, wave period, wave direction, swell, water current, water dept, water tides.

[0036] In a still further advantageous method of the invention, the vessel performance model provides predictive maintenance information, wherein the method comprises further acts: retrieving at least one further condition information related to at least one vessel component within a maintenance time interval during operation, providing said further condition information related to the state of said vessel component to said vessel performance model, predicting said predictive maintenance information related to said vessel component.

[0037] The vessel performance model is based on a plurality of information related to the state of the vessel. The vessel performance model is based on a plurality of information related to the state of each component, related to the specific vessel. When optimizing performance in a specific vessel during active operation, the performance may for example be optimized to improve propulsion efficiency. Optimizing performance may also provide a predictive maintenance schedule to increase component lifespan, reduce down time and maintenance costs. The predictive maintenance schedule may comprise a plurality of predictive maintenance information. A maintenance system may be provided. The maintenance system receive predictive maintenance information. The maintenance system may generate a maintenance schedule. The maintenance system may be an external system. The control device retrieves further condition information related to the vessel components within a maintenance time interval during operation. The vessel performance model may be provided with a further condition information related to the state of said vessel component. The vessel performance model may predict the predictive maintenance information related to said vessel component. The predictive maintenance schedule may be provided with predictive maintenance information. The vessel performance model may predict the predictive maintenance information and the performance setting baseline information from the same scope of input. The performance may be optimized during operation, based on the continuously knowledge of the state of the components in the vessel.

[0038] In a further advantageous method of the invention, the vessel performance model is a trained model, wherein the vessel performance model is trained on data information, the first condition information and if provided said performance baseline information, retrieved from one or both of said vessel, another vessel.

[0039] The vessel performance model may be a trained model comprising one or more of following type models: a learning model, a neural network model, a predictive model, an iterative model etc.

[0040] Using machine learning and artificial intelligence features related to the vessel performance model may provide control for safely increasing engine performance during operation for a specific vessel. For example, a predictive model may be used in scheduling maintenance, and ensures that equipment remains in a reliable working condition for the vessel during operation. The predictive maintenance schedule may enhance equipment reliability and reduce the operational downtime for the vessel. Furthermore, the use of predictive maintenance schedule improves safety by preventing unexpected failures.

[0041] The vessel performance model may be trained on data information, the first and second and further condition information during the trail and, if preferred, during the operation. The vessel performance model may be trained on feedback information, such as, if provided, the provided performance baseline information. The input to the vessel performance model may be retrieved from the vessel itself. The input to the vessel performance model may be retrieved from similar types of vessels, if preferred. This would provide a larger range of valid trainings data for the vessel performance model, which may be an advantage when training the vessel performance model.

[0042] An iterative model may be used for training purpose. The vessel performance model may be training during operation. One or more of the component models may be training during operation. Algorithms may be used for training on condition information using multiple iterations, with adjustments and refinements made in each round to improve accuracy and performance of the vessel performance model.

[0043] At least one vessel type model related to the type of vessel may be provided as initial models. The vessel performance model may be an intelligent model, which may be trained based on initial models, and if present the vessel’s condition information measured over time during operation. The term, trained vessel performance model, should be understood in the context of machine learning model and artificial intelligence model, as a computer program that has learned patterns, information, or representations from a dataset information during a training process. Machine learning or data analysis model may be suitable for the specific objectives and type of data information, which may be collected for a specific component. These trained models are used to make predictions, classify data or generate responses, based on the patterns learned. The trained vessel performance model may be a machine learning, ML, based model / Artificial intelligence, Al, based model. The training vessel performance model may serve as predictive model. Common models include regression, classification, time series analysis, or deep learning models.

[0044] The trained model may be based on a ML or Al based model. Preferably the training vessel performance model may be capable of predicting the condition impact on the vessel, for example a power buffer information has a safety margin to the maximal power load information. A feedback loop may be provided in the vessel performance model, wherein the vessel performance model’s outputs may be used to adjust the outcome from the vessel performance model. This also applies for the component state model or models. It is, therefore, important to monitor and predict how these adjustments impact the vessels and the engine performance during operation. The component state information may be calculated by using a component state calculation based on the condition information, using a training component state model for calculating and predicting the component state information. A training component state model may easily and rapidly predict a maintenance time limit for the vessel component. A training component state model may predict a maintenance time limit for a plurality of vessel components combined, such that the dependency of each component is taken into consideration when providing a maintenance schedule comprising predicted maintenance time limits.

[0045] Operational performance and condition of the vessel may be provided using a trained model. The optimized vessel performance model may be a digital twin of the vessel’s current operational condition. The optimized vessel performance model may mirror the vessel in real-life operational performance. The trained model may provide important predictions for optimizing operational performance and reducing maintenance costs, when detecting the incipient vessel failure at an early stage.

[0046] In a still further advantageous method of the invention, wherein the method comprises further acts of controlling the initial sequence or the operational sequence manually and semi-automatically.

[0047] The vessel may be operated manually or semi-automatically. The initial sequence or the operational sequence is controlled manually or semi-automatically, while operating the vessel. The term “manually” shall be understood as involving a human intervention in the process. “Semi-automatically” refers to a process or system that combines both manual and automatic elements. In other words, it involves a combination of human intervention and automated processes. For example, in the context of executing processes, a semiautomatic system might require human operators to initiate certain steps or provide input, while other steps are carried out automatically by the computer system. This balance between human control and automated functions can provide efficiency and accuracy in various tasks, preventing failures. The process may also be carried out full automated, but with the possibility of human intervention if needed.

[0048] The present invention presents a second aspect of the invention, by presenting a control system for providing at least one performance baseline information to at least one vessel, wherein the control system comprises a processing unit configured to process a vessel performance model, wherein the control system is configured to retrieve at least one condition information from at least one condition source, wherein the control system is configured to retrieve and transmit data information, to and from the vessel main control system, wherein the control system is configured to process data information retrieved form the vessel main control system, to provide at least one performance baseline information related to the vessel based on the vessel performance model of the vessel, wherein the control system is configured to provide the performance baseline information, which is transmitted to the vessel main control system, such that the vessel is capable of being controlled by the vessel main control system according to the performance baseline information.

[0049] The control system may comprise a communication unit for communicating with an internal system, such as the vessels main control system. The vessel may comprise further external control systems, or internal control systems. The external control system may be in data communication with the vessel’s main control system. The internal control system may be in data communication with the vessel’s main control system. The control system may be an external control system. The control system may be in communication with a plurality of vessels, providing each of the vessels performance baseline information related to the specific vessel based on the specific vessel performance model. The control system may be a part of the vessel’s main control system. The control system may be the vessel’s main control system.

[0050] The control system may be configured to train the vessel performance model, wherein the trained model is an initial trained model, which is trained before the vessel is commissioned and ready for daily operation. The control system may be configured to train the vessel performance model from data information provided continuously, or with predetermined interval during daily operation. The control system may be configured to train the vessel performance model from vessel condition information and ambient condition information retrieved continuously, or with predetermined interval. The control system may be configured to continuously, or with predetermined interval, provide information related to a total dynamic force impact on said, vessel. The control system may be configured to continuously, or with predetermined interval, provide vessel condition information to a vessel main control system. The control system may be configured to continuously, or with predetermined interval, provide information related to a vessel propulsion efficiency based on said total dynamic force’s impact, relative to said vessel condition information. The control system may be configured to determine the vessels performance under varying ambient conditions. The control system may be configured to provide energy consumption related to the vessel, such that the vessel main control system is capable of optimising the energy consumption relative to a vessel operation task.

[0051] The control system may be configured to retrieving vessel condition information from the vessel’s at least one engine RPM, and at least one propeller pitch to each other. The control system may be configured to calculate or predict a total dynamic force’s impact on said vessel relative to the initial speed vs power relation information. The control system may be configured to calculate or predict a speed vs power relation, relative to a total dynamic force. The control system may be configured to calculate or predict the vessels efficiency relative to a vessel speed, and, if preferred, relative to said total dynamic force, such that the propulsion efficiency of a vessel is capable of being determined under varying conditions, and the energy consumption of said vessel is capable of being optimised during operation.

[0052] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the performance baseline information comprises a propeller curve wherein the control system is configured to replace a current version of propeller curve with an updated propeller curve.

[0053] The vessels main control system may easily accommodate updated performance baseline information, such as propeller curve. For example, the vessel performance model may be capable of providing more optimized propeller curve over time, based on a current state of the vessel. The updated propeller curve may replace a current version of propeller curve, such that the current version of the propeller curve becomes a prior version, and the updated version becomes a current version.

[0054] The present invention presents a third aspect of the invention providing a vessel main control system for controlling a vessel relative to at least one performance baseline information, wherein the vessel comprises at least one engine, at least one propeller, wherein the vessel main control system is in data communication with a control system, wherein the vessel main control system is configured to transmit vessel data information to the control system, such that the control system is capable of predicting at least one performance baseline information, and the vessel main control system is capable of receiving the performance baseline information from the control system, and controlling the vessel’s engine and propeller according to the performance baseline information during operation.

[0055] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, wherein the control system is configured to retrieve at least one condition information from at least one vessel component within a maintenance time interval during operation.

[0056] The control system may be configured to retrieve at least one condition information related to at least one vessel component. The control system may be configured to retrieve at least one condition information from the measuring devices which measures vessel components of at least one vessel component. The vessel main control system may be in communication with the measuring devices which measures vessel component. The control system may be configured to retrieve at least one condition information from the vessel main control system. The control system may be configured to retrieve data information the within a predetermined maintenance time interval during operation.

[0057] In a still further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the control system is an external control system configured to be in data communication with one or more of the following: at least one the vessel main control system, at least one external weather condition source, at least one supplier information source.

[0058] The control system may be an external control system comprising a data communication unit. The external control system may be configured to be in data communication with at least one the vessel main control system. The external control system may be configured to be in data communication The external control system may be configured to retrieve information from at least one condition source. The external control system may be configured to be in data communication with at least one external weather condition source, wherein the external weather condition source is not located on the vessel. The external control system may be configured to be in data communication with at least one supplier or manufacture information source.

[0059] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the control system is in data communication with a first vessel main control system and a second vessel main control system, wherein the control system is configured to predict a first performance baseline information related to a first vessel based on the first vessel performance model and send the first performance baseline information to a second vessel.

[0060] The control system may be an external control system configured to be in data communication with at least a first and a second vessel. The first vessel comprises a first vessel main control system. The second vessel comprises a second vessel main control system. The control system may receive first data information from the first vessel main control system. The control system may be configured to predict a first performance baseline information related to a first vessel based on the first vessel performance model from the first data information. The controls system may be configured to send the first performance baseline information to a second vessel main control system and use the first performance baseline information during the initial sequence trail of the second vessel. The control system may receive second data information from the second vessel main control system. The control system may be configured to predict a second performance baseline information related to a second vessel based on the first performance baseline information and the second data information retrieved from the second vessel using the second vessel performance model. The control system may be configured to send the second performance baseline information to the second vessel main control system.

[0061] The present invention presents a third aspect of the invention, by presenting a vessel main control system for controlling a vessel relative to at least one performance baseline information. The vessel main control system receives the performance baseline information which may be related to a vessels operative performance state. The vessel comprises at least one engine, at least one propeller. The vessel main control system may be configured to be in data communication with a control system. The vessel main control system may be configured to transmit vessel data information to the control system. The vessel main control system may be configured to receive the performance baseline information from the control system. The vessel main control system may be configured to control the vessel’s engine and propeller according to the performance baseline information during operation.

[0062] This invention has now been explained with reference to a few embodiments and methods, which have only been discussed to illustrate the many varying possibilities achievable with the system and method according to the present invention.

[0063] Brief description of the drawings

[0064] The embodiments of the invention are described in the following with reference to:

[0065] Fig. 1 : Illustrating a block diagram of a vessel performance model.

[0066] Fig. 2: Illustrating a block diagram of the control system.

[0067] Fig. 3: Illustrating a flowchart of the initial sequence.

[0068] Fig. 4: Illustrating a flowchart of the operational sequence.

[0069] Fig. 5: Showing a flowchart of an initial sequence within a baseline test period.

[0070] Fig. 6: Illustrating an embodiment of a control system interaction with a vessel.

[0071] In the explanations of the figures, identical or corresponding elements will be provided with the same designations in different figures. Therefore, no explanation of all details will be given in connection with each single figure / embodiment.

[0072] Detailed description

[0073] Embodiments of the invention are explained in the following detailed description. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its scope to the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments, and of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

[0074] Fig. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a vessel performance model. The vessel performance model may comprise a trained model 2. The control system is configured to process the trained model. The vessel performance model may comprise one or more component models. The control system retrieves data information as input to the vessel performance model 2. The data information may be retrieved using measuring devices. Alternatively, the data information may be retrieved using the data information available in the vessel main control system. The vessel performance model 2 comprises at least one first input 3. The first input 3 may comprise measured component data information retrieved from at least one component’s current state. The vessel performance model 2 may comprise a second input 4. The second input 4 may comprise measured ambient condition information retrieved from at least one ambient current state, such as sea condition or weather condition. The third input 5 comprises performance baseline information, which forms the initial baseline performance. The fourth input 6 may comprise at least one limit information related to one or more vessel components. Some limits may be variable, and some other limits may be constant, depending on the vessel’ s operation. The limits, and status of the limits, may be altered by a user or an intelligent function. The vessel performance model 2 may comprise a fifth input 7. The fifth input 7 may be a feedback input. The feedback may come from the vessel performance model itself, or from other component models or from the vessels operating settings etc.

[0075] The vessel performance model 2 may comprise first output 8. The first output 8 may be related to a propeller curve for replacing a current propeller curve. The vessel performance model may be provided by a basic type model related to the vessel. The vessel performance model may be a trained model comprising one or more types of models. When adding noise free data information, retrieved during the test, according to the initial sequence, a unique vessel performance model is formed for that specific vessel. The unique vessel performance model may then provide a reliable performance baseline information related to that specific vessel.

[0076] Fig. 2 illustrates a block diagram of the control system comprising a vessel performance model 2. The control system 1 comprises a processing unit configured to handle one or more vessel performance models separately. The control system 1 retrieves data information as input 3 to the vessel performance model 2. The data information may be retrieved using measuring devices, such as sensors V_l, V_2 arranged in the vessel 10. The data information may be retrieved as an input from the vessel main control system. The vessel main control system 14 retrieves the data information from the vessel component using internal measuring devices. The vessel performance model 2 comprises at least one first input 3. The first input 3 may comprise measured component data information retrieved from at least one component’s current state. The vessel performance model 2 may comprise a second input 4. The second input 4 may comprise measured ambient condition information retrieved from a ambient condition source 11, such as a sea condition source or a weather condition source. The ambient condition information retrieved from a sea condition source, or a weather condition source may be provided by the vessel main control system 14 or from an external source, which reports weather and sea condition as such.

[0077] The trained model 2 may comprise first output 8 and a second output 9. The first output 8 may be related to a propeller curve for replacing a current propeller curve. The maintenance system 13 may receive the second output 9, which may be related to a maintenance schedule comprising at least one maintenance time limit. The vessel performance model 2 may comprise data communication to and from a database 12. The database 12 may be an external database 12. The database 12 may be a cloud solution or similar.

[0078] Fig. 3 illustrates a flowchart of the initial sequence. The initial test procedure comprises the initial sequence, which provides noise free data information. The term, noise free data, should be understood as data information, which is comparable at the time they were retrieved, and at that time not disrupted by a variation of ambient conditions or similar.

[0079] The initial sequence is predetermined, such that starting parameter and ending parameter are determined for the specific task. The initial sequence is a coherent sequence, which is executed within a test period, which is a time limit period. The initial sequence may preferably be performed within substantially the same ambient conditions, when operating the vessel during the test procedure. The data information is retrieved within a first predetermined time interval, and the ambient condition is retrieved within a second predetermined time interval. The first and the second predetermined time interval may be equal to each other, or they may be different to each other depending on the initial sequence. The data information is collected while the equipment is substantially at the same state, while executing the initial sequence. Knowing the state of the equipment and the ambient condition, it will be possible to provide valid data information of high quality and generate a reliable vessel performance model of a specific vessel. The specific vessel is then provided with unique performance baseline information, such as a propeller curve. Fig. 4 illustrates a flowchart of the operational sequence. The operational procedure comprises an operational sequence, which is activated after ending the initial test procedure, which initial test procedure comprises the initial sequence. The operational sequence comprising a predetermined measuring interval. The data information is retrieved within a first predetermined time interval, and the ambient condition is retrieved within a second predetermined time interval. The first and the second predetermined time interval may be equal to each other, or they may be different to each other depending on the operational sequence. Both the data information and the ambient condition are collected, and the equipment is changing state over time. The data information received, while the vessel is in active operation, may comprise a large amount of data information which is corrupted, non-comparable or invalid. The data information may be collected, tested and validated. Using a vessel performance model, the data information may be used for training the model, and thereby providing a more robust vessel performance model over time increase the immunity for noise.

[0080] Since a lot of data information is already retrieved in the initial process, the vessel performance model is still capable of providing a reliable updated performance baseline information to the vessel’s main control system.

[0081] Fig. 5 shows a flowchart of an initial sequence within a baseline test period. The vessel is operated according to the initial sequence, to provide reliable data information related to the plurality of combinations of propeller pitch and propeller RPM, when measured relative to each other. The initial sequence may be predetermined before starting the process. The initial sequence ensures a plurality of combinations of propeller pitch and propeller RPM are measured relative to each other. a) Activate test procedure, starting the initial sequence. b) Set initial RPM starting point. c) Set initial Pitch starting point. d) Retrieve data information related to the combination of the current pitch and RPM. e) Save data related to the combination of the current pitch and RPM. f) Add step to RPM, compare RPM to RPM limit, ending point.

[0082] If RPM limit is not reached: repeat step e) until RPM limit is reached.

[0083] Proceed g) Add step to pitch, compare pitch to pitch limit, ending point.

[0084] If pitch limit is not reached: repeat step e) until pitch limit is reached. Proceed h) Repeat test procedure or end test procedure. i) If repeat test: repeat b) to h) j) End test procedure.

[0085] The initial sequence provides an initial baseline of data information, such that the performance of the engine and propeller settings are optimized relative to the specific vessel. The baseline of data information provides a useful vessel performance model, which relates to the specific vessel when used as input to the vessel performance model. The vessel performance model is available from the first day of active operation of the vessel. The vessel performance model may be continuously modified according to the state of the vessel.

[0086] Fig. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a control system 1 interaction with a vessel. The control system 1 may comprise an external control unit 15 arranged at an external location away from the vessel. The external control unit 15 may be in direct communication with the vessel main control system 14 and the measuring units, such as the first and second sensors 10, 11 arranged in the vessel. Alternatively, the control system 1 comprises in this example a vessel unit 13 arranged in the vessel, and an external control unit 15 arranged at an external location away from the vessel. The external control unit 15 may be in communication with the vessel unit 16. The vessel unit may be in direct communication with the vessel main control system 11 and the measuring units, such as the first and a second component 31, 32arranged in the vessel. The external control unit 15 may be in communication with a plurality of the vessel units 16 located on a plurality of vessels. The external control unit 15 may comprise a vessel performance model trained for each of the vessels separately. The external control unit 15 may for example be capable for providing respective propeller curve and maintenance schedule for each of the vessels.

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS1. A method for providing a performance baseline information based on data information related to a vessels operative performance state, wherein the vessel comprises at least one engine and at least one propeller, wherein a control system is configured to process said data information, wherein the method comprises following acts: determining an initial sequence, wherein the initial sequence comprise a plurality of predetermined combinations of propeller pitch and propeller revolutions per minute, RPM, measured relative to each other, operating the vessel according to the initial sequence within a test period, retrieving said data information related to said combinations of propeller pitch and propeller RPM measured relative to each other, retrieving at least one first condition information from a condition source, generating a vessel performance model from the data information and the first condition information, predicting at least one performance baseline information related to the vessel based on the vessel performance model related to the vessel.

2. Method according to claim 1, wherein the method comprises further acts: retrieving at least one initial condition information from a vessel component during the test period, providing said vessel performance model said initial condition information related to the state of said vessel component, predicting said performance baseline information using the vessel performance model related to the vessel from the data information, the first condition information, and the initial condition information.

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the method comprises further acts: determining an operational sequence comprising a measuring interval,activating said operational sequence, when the initial sequence is completed, such that a plurality of combinations of propeller pitch and propeller RPM are measured relative to each other during operation, retrieving at least one operational data information related to the operational combination of propeller pitch and propeller RPM during operation of the vessel per measuring interval, retrieving at least one second condition information from the condition source, optimizing the vessel performance model using the operational data information and a second condition information, predicting the performance baseline information for the vessel, based on the optimized vessel performance model related to the vessel, wherein the optimized vessel performance model relates to the vessel’s current operational condition.

4. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises further acts of transferring the performance baseline information from said control system to a vessel main control system, wherein the control system is an external control system.

5. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein predicting the performance baseline information for the vessel within an interval of 24 hours, or more.

6. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of following condition information is retrieved: vessel manoeuvring, load, trim, wind speed, wind direction, wave height, wave period, wave direction, swell, water current, water dept, water tides, state of at least one vessel component.

7. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the vessel performance model provides predictive maintenance information, wherein the method comprises further acts:retrieving at least one further condition information related to at least one vessel component within a maintenance time interval during operation, providing said further condition information related to the state of said vessel component to said vessel performance model, predicting said predictive maintenance information related to said vessel component.

8. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the vessel performance model is a trained model, wherein the vessel performance model is trained on data information, the first condition information and if provided said performance baseline information, retrieved from one or both of said vessel, another vessel.

9. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises further acts of controlling the initial sequence and the operational sequence manually or semi-automatically.

10. A control system for providing at least one performance baseline information to at least one vessel, wherein the control system comprises a processing unit, wherein the control system is configured to carrying out the method according to any one of the claims 1- 9, wherein the control system is configured to retrieve and transmit data information, to and from a vessel main control system, wherein the control system is configured to process data information retrieved from the vessel main control system, to provide at least one performance baseline information related to the vessel based on a vessel performance model of the vessel, wherein the control system is configured to transmit the to the vessel main control system, such that the vessel is being controlled by the vessel main control system according to the performance baseline information.

11. Control system according to claim 10, wherein the performance baseline information comprises a propeller curve, wherein the control system is configured to replace a current version of propeller curve with an updated propeller curve.

12. Control system according to any one of claims 10 or 11, wherein the control system is configured to retrieve at least one condition information from at least one vessel component within a maintenance time interval during operation.

13. Control system according to any one of claims 10, 11 or 12, wherein the control system is an external control system configured to be in data communication with one or more of the following: at least one the vessel main control system, at least one external weather condition source, at least one supplier information source.

14. Control system according to any one of claims 10 - 13, wherein the control system is configured to be in data communication with a first vessel main control system and a second vessel main control system, wherein the control system is configured to predict a first performance baseline information related to a first vessel based on the first vessel performance model and send the first performance baseline information to a second vessel.

15. A vessel main control system for controlling a vessel relative to at least one performance baseline information, wherein the vessel comprises at least one engine, at least one propeller, wherein the vessel main control system is configured to be in data communication with a control system according to any one of the claims 10-14, wherein the vessel main control system is configured to transmit vessel data information to the control system, and the vessel main control system is configured to receive the performance baseline information from the control system, and control the vessel’s engine and propeller according to the performance baseline information during operation.

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