Dynamic Load Sharing for Marine Generator Sets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load-sharing systems for multiple engines in marine vessels are not fuel efficient due to rigid configurations and lack of real-time adaptation to power demand changes, as they do not adequately consider differences in generator sets' operating constraints and priorities.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that determine load shares among multiple power sources based on Brake Specific Fuel Consumption (BSFC) curves and operating priorities, using a power distribution module to optimize fuel efficiency by dynamically adjusting power output among engines, including the use of optimization algorithms like particle swarm optimization to minimize total fuel consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a rigid load-sharing configuration is used where each engine produces power proportional to its capacity, then the system is simple to operate and maintain, but fuel efficiency deteriorates due to inability to optimize for nonlinear fuel consumption curves
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic load sharing optimization that continuously adjusts engine power distribution based on real-time power demand and fuel consumption characteristics. The system transitions from static proportional load sharing to dynamic optimization by continuously monitoring BSFC curves and recalculating optimal power distribution, thereby resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and fuel efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operating parameters of engines by adjusting power output levels based on BSFC curve analysis. Instead of maintaining fixed proportional power distribution, the system dynamically modifies power output parameters to operate engines at optimal fuel efficiency points, directly addressing the fuel consumption issue while maintaining operational control.
2Device complexity
If offline computation methods are used to determine load-sharing configuration, then computational complexity is reduced, but the system cannot timely respond to rapid changes in power demand
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-storing BSFC curve data and optimization algorithms in the control system during system setup or maintenance periods. This allows the system to perform rapid real-time calculations during operation without complex online computations, achieving both low operational complexity and fast response to power demand changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex real-time computational mechanics with pre-computed lookup tables and simplified real-time evaluation logic. By substituting heavy online optimization computations with pre-prepared data structures and simple real-time queries, the system achieves fast response speeds while maintaining low computational complexity during operation.
3Device complexity
If all generator sets are treated equally in load sharing, then the system is simple to control, but it fails to account for different operating constraints and priorities of individual generator sets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by assigning unique characteristics to each generator set, including individual BSFC curves, operating constraints, and priority levels. The control system treats each generator set locally with its own specific parameters rather than applying uniform control rules, enabling the system to adapt to diverse operating constraints while maintaining manageable control complexity through modular individualized profiles.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and a system of managing load sharing among a plurality of power sources are disclosed. According to certain embodiments, the method includes determining a total power output to be directed from the plurality of power sources to at least one power consumer. The method also includes retrieving a Brake Specific Fuel Consumption (BSFC) curve associated with each of the plurality of power sources. The method further includes determining an operating priority for each of the plurality of power sources based on operating constraints associated with the respective power source. The method further includes determining a load share for each of the plurality of power sources based on at least the total power output, the BSFC curves, and the operating priorities.