Hybrid Tugboat Power Generation With Linear Load Sharing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tug boats rely on diesel power for propulsion, which is inefficient and contributes to environmental pollution, and there is a need for a cleaner and more efficient power generation system.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid power generation system using a combination of diesel engines and batteries, controlled by a linear programming computer program, to optimize power consumption and reduce waste by dynamically adjusting the operation of both sources based on load requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If diesel engines are used for power generation, then power can be provided to the tug boat, but fuel consumption increases and environmental pollution occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines diesel engines and battery energy storage systems into a hybrid power generation system. The controller integrates both power sources and dynamically adjusts their operation based on load requirements, allowing the system to use batteries for baseline power and diesel engines only when additional power is needed, thereby reducing fuel consumption while maintaining reliable power supply.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the operating state of diesel engines and batteries based on real-time load requirements. The controller monitors system load and automatically transitions between different power source combinations (battery-only, hybrid, or diesel-only modes) to optimize fuel consumption while ensuring continuous reliable power supply.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If diesel engines operate continuously, then power supply is maintained, but engine life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic action by alternating between battery power provision and diesel engine operation. Instead of continuous diesel engine operation, the controller charges batteries during low-demand periods and uses them during baseline operating conditions, allowing diesel engines to operate periodically only when additional power is required, thereby extending engine life.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the baseline power supply function from the diesel engine and assigns it to the battery energy storage system. This separation allows diesel engines to be taken out of continuous operation and used only for peak power requirements, significantly reducing cumulative operating hours and extending engine life.
3Loss of energy
If hybrid power generation system is implemented, then fuel consumption is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is programmed with automated control logic that enables the hybrid power generation system to self-manage its operation. The system automatically monitors load requirements, determines optimal power source combinations, and adjusts diesel engine and battery operation without manual intervention, thereby reducing the operational complexity burden despite the increased structural complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A hybrid power generation system and method for marine vessels, such as tug boats, is disclosed. The system integrates multiple diesel generators and battery energy storage with advanced control via a Load Sharing Processor executing a computer program stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium. The control program utilizes linear programming, neural networks, or expert systems to dynamically manage load distribution and optimize fuel efficiency based on real-time operating states of the diesel engines and batteries. The system ensures reduced emissions, improved power response to transient loads, and prolonged engine life by minimizing unnecessary diesel generator operation. The method includes managing system load, calculating optimal operating states, and adjusting power sources accordingly, including temporary battery-driven peak shaving and dynamic generator activation and deactivation.