Hull-Integrated Battery Packs for Marine Vessel Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Smaller marine vessels face challenges in implementing lithium ion batteries for hybrid or full electric operation due to insufficient volume and weight capacity, and the addition of battery packs can affect the vessel's stability and performance.
Innovation Solution
Integration of battery packs into the hull with compliant layers to reduce vibration transmission and utilize available space efficiently, including integration below the waterline and in ballast compartments, with a hybrid propulsion system that combines electric and fuel-based power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If lithium ion batteries are installed on smaller vessels, then electric power capacity is improved, but vessel stability deteriorates due to center of gravity changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates battery packs into the hull structure itself, utilizing the hull's three-dimensional space and structural framework to accommodate batteries. This dimensional integration allows batteries to be distributed throughout the hull volume rather than concentrated in one location, enabling better center of gravity management while maintaining vessel stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The hull structure serves multiple functions: it provides the traditional protective enclosure while simultaneously acting as the mounting structure and integration framework for the battery packs. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate battery mounting structures and allows flexible placement to optimize stability.
2Use of energy by moving object
If lithium ion batteries are installed on smaller vessels, then electric power capacity is improved, but available volume capacity deteriorates due to insufficient space
Solution Approach 1:
The battery packs are nested within the hull structure, utilizing the space between the inner and outer hull surfaces. This nesting approach allows batteries to occupy otherwise unused structural space, maximizing energy storage capacity without compromising the vessel's functional volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the thickness dimension of the hull structure to accommodate battery packs. By placing batteries in the space between inner and outer hulls, the design transforms the hull's structural thickness into usable storage volume, effectively increasing energy capacity without reducing interior space.
3Use of energy by moving object
If lithium ion batteries are installed on smaller vessels, then electric power capacity is improved, but weight capacity deteriorates due to excessive weight
Solution Approach 1:
The hull structure simultaneously provides protective enclosure, structural support, and battery mounting functions. This eliminates the need for additional dedicated battery mounting structures, reducing overall system weight while maintaining electric power capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery mounting structure is merged with the hull structure itself, combining two separate systems (hull and battery mounting) into one integrated structure. This merging eliminates redundant materials and reduces total weight while maintaining both structural integrity and battery support capabilities.
4Volume of stationary object
If battery packs are integrated into the hull, then space utilization is improved, but vibration transmission to battery cells worsens
Solution Approach 1:
Vibration isolation elements are introduced as intermediary components between the battery packs and the hull structure. These intermediaries absorb and dampen vibrations from the hull, preventing direct transmission to the battery cells while allowing the batteries to remain integrated into the hull for efficient space utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
Vibration isolation elements are pre-installed between the battery packs and hull structure to provide beforehand cushioning against vibration. This preventive measure protects battery cells from vibration damage before vibrations can cause harm, while maintaining the integrated design benefits.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables greater installed battery capacity while maintaining vessel stability and performance, optimizing the center of gravity and allowing for customized energy storage distribution within the hull.
Implementation Method 1
at least one compliant layer between the housing and the one or more battery cells, wherein the compliant layer is configured to reduce transmission of vibrations from the hull to the one or more battery cells
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the disclosure are drawn to apparatuses and methods for packaging and distributing a marine energy storage system. Battery packs including one or more battery cells and a compliant layer enclosed in a sealed housing are disclosed. Vessel hulls with battery packs structurally integrated are disclosed. Vessel hulls with battery packs mounted to an inner surface of an outer hull are disclosed. Vessel hulls including compartments for inserting battery packs are disclosed. Vessel hulls including battery packs mounted in a ballast of the hull are disclosed.