Marine Propulsion System with Electrical Power Transfer
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing propulsion systems for marine vessels face inefficiencies due to varied operating profiles, with simple transmissions increasing drag and variable pitch propellers being costly and complex, while hybrid systems lack flexibility in combining engine and motor outputs effectively.
Innovation Solution
A propulsion system featuring a transmission with a planetary gearbox, multiple energy conversion machines, and a power transfer arrangement that allows the power unit to drive energy conversion machines independently of the transmission, enabling flexible power distribution and control through mechanical and alternate routes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple transmission is used, then device complexity is reduced, but drag increases due to larger keel width required to accommodate gears
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical gearbox system with an electrical power conversion system. The power unit connects to the propeller shaft through electrical generators and motors rather than through mechanical gears, eliminating the need for large output gears and wide keels, thus reducing drag while maintaining power transmission capability
Solution Approach 2:
The power unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it can directly drive the propeller shaft through mechanical connection, or it can drive electrical generators to produce electricity that powers motors connected to the propeller shaft. This multi-functionality allows the system to operate efficiently across varied operating profiles without requiring complex mechanical transmissions
2Productivity
If variable pitch propellers are used, then operational efficiency is improved, but cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of making the propeller pitch variable, the system achieves adaptability by dynamically switching between different power sources and power transmission modes. The electrical system can adjust power delivery characteristics without physically changing the propeller geometry, maintaining simplicity while achieving operational flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operating parameters through electrical control rather than mechanical adjustment. By varying electrical power delivery to the motors and switching between direct mechanical drive and electrical drive modes, the system optimizes performance across different operating conditions without requiring variable pitch mechanisms
3Power
If power unit is sized for maximum power output, then high power requirements are met, but efficiency decreases when operating at low loads for extended periods
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between operating modes based on power requirements. During low-power operations, the power unit can operate at optimal efficiency points while electrical motors provide the necessary power augmentation, or the system can use electrical power from generators to supplement mechanical power, allowing the power unit to operate in its efficient range across varied load conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The power unit serves multiple purposes: it can directly drive the propeller shaft for high-power mechanical output, or it can drive electrical generators to produce electricity for motors. This dual functionality allows the system to meet both high power requirements and maintain efficiency during low-load operations by selecting the appropriate power transmission path
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
This configuration enhances operational efficiency by allowing flexible power management across different operating modes, reducing drag, and maintaining efficiency with fixed pitch propellers, while also providing redundancy and cost savings through optimized power unit sizing and reduced keel width.
Implementation Method 1
The transmission may comprise a planetary gearbox
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
This disclosure is directed towards a propulsion system suitable for work machines, particularly marine vessels. The propulsion system comprises a transmission configured to provide a power output and at least one first energy conversion machine. The propulsion system also comprises at least one power unit operable to selectively drive the transmission and/or the at least one first energy conversion machine. At least one second energy conversion machine operable to selectively drive or be driven by the transmission is also provided. A power transfer arrangement is also provided for transferring power between the first and second energy conversion machines.