Hybrid Vessel Propulsion Clutch Switching With Speed Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hybrid vessel propulsion systems experience shocks and noises during power switching between the engine and electric motor due to differences in rotation speeds, which current technologies fail to adequately mitigate.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid vessel propulsion apparatus with independent transmission paths for the engine and electric motor, featuring a controller that executes tuning control to adjust rotation speeds and minimize differences between engine and motor conversion rotation speeds, thereby reducing shocks and noises during power switching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If power switching is performed between engine and electric motor in existing hybrid vessel propulsion systems, then power source switching is achieved, but shocks and noises are caused due to rotation speed differences
Solution Approach 1:
The control device performs preliminary action by adjusting the rotation speed of either the engine or electric motor before power switching occurs. This pre-adjustment ensures that both power sources are at matching rotation speeds prior to engagement, preventing the shocks and noises that would otherwise result from rotation speed differences during switching.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the rotation speed parameter of the engine or electric motor to match the other power source before switching. The control device monitors and modifies rotational speed parameters in real-time, ensuring that the parameter difference between engine and motor is minimized or eliminated at the moment of power source transition, thereby reducing harmful shocks and noises.
2Adaptability or versatility
If independent transmission paths are used for engine and electric motor, then power transmission flexibility is improved, but complexity of power switching control increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the control functions for the engine and electric motor into a single integrated control device. This unified controller manages both independent transmission paths, coordinates power switching between engine and motor, and performs the necessary rotation speed adjustments, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite the presence of multiple transmission paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device employs feedback mechanisms to monitor the rotation speeds of both the engine and electric motor, as well as the current power source status. Based on this feedback information, the controller automatically adjusts power source selection and rotation speed parameters, enabling flexible power transmission while simplifying control through automated decision-making rather than complex manual coordination.
Data Source
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AI summary
A vessel propulsion apparatus includes a first transmission path (9) that transmits the power of an engine (8) to a propeller shaft (17), a second transmission path (12) that transmits the power of a motor (11) to the propeller shaft, and a controller (31). A first clutch (81) cuts off the power transmission of the first transmission path in a first disconnection state, and permits the power transmission of the first transmission path in a first connection state. A second clutch (82) cuts off the power transmission of the second transmission path in a second disconnection state, and permits the power transmission of the second transmission path in a second connection state. The controller executes tuning control of both the engine and the motor when the first clutch is switched between the first disconnection state and the first connection state and when the second clutch is switched between the second connection state and the second disconnection state.