On-Engine Generator Control for Marine Vessel Power Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional separate electric power generation systems in marine vessels are inefficient due to oversized configurations for peak loads, leading to excessive noise and fuel consumption during low power demand situations, as they must constantly operate to provide power.
Innovation Solution
An on-engine generator (OEG) system that includes a controller to optimize power distribution based on transmission state, using different control algorithms to maximize power generation when the transmission is in neutral and prioritize fuel economy when in gear, allowing excess power to be stored for later use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a separate electric power generation system is sized for peak loads, then maximum power availability is ensured, but fuel consumption and noise increase during low power demand
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the generator's operational state variable rather than fixed. The controller dynamically adjusts the generator's operation based on real-time power demand conditions, switching between different operational modes (maximum power generation, reduced power generation, or shutdown) to match actual needs, thereby reducing fuel consumption when peak power is not required.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the generator based on demand conditions. The controller modifies key parameters such as generator runtime, power output level, and operational state (on/off) according to the difference between available and required power, optimizing fuel consumption across varying load conditions.
2Power
If a separate electric power generation system is sized for peak loads, then maximum power availability is ensured, but system size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the generator system multi-functional by enabling it to serve different purposes based on operational conditions. The same generator can operate in maximum power mode when needed, in reduced power mode during lower demand, or be completely shut down when sufficient power is available from other sources (such as battery banks), thereby reducing the need for oversized dedicated generation capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts its configuration and operational state based on real-time conditions. The controller adjusts the generator's role and output level according to power demand, allowing the system to scale its operational complexity rather than maintaining fixed maximum-capacity infrastructure at all times.
3Reliability
If the prime mover operates constantly to provide electric power, then continuous power supply is ensured, but fuel consumption and noise increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by controlling the generator to operate intermittently rather than continuously. The controller periodically assesses power demand conditions and adjusts generator operation accordingly, activating it when power deficiency is detected and shutting it down when sufficient power is available from storage systems, thereby reducing overall fuel consumption while maintaining continuous power supply reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies self-service by using stored energy (battery banks) to serve the power needs during periods when the generator is shut down. The storage systems autonomously provide power during low-demand periods, reducing the need for constant generator operation and associated fuel consumption and noise.
4Power
If transmission is in neutral, then maximum electric power generation is desired, but propulsion power is not needed
Solution Approach 1:
The controller dynamically adjusts the generator's power output based on transmission state. When the transmission is in neutral, the system transitions to a mode that prioritizes electric power generation, allowing the generator to operate at maximum capacity since no propulsion power is required. This dynamic adjustment optimizes energy capture during non-propulsion periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by maximizing power generation during neutral periods in anticipation of future power needs. The controller proactively captures and stores energy during these opportunities, preparing energy reserves before propulsion is needed, thereby ensuring power availability without compromising future propulsion requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
An auxiliary electric power device, which is coupled to a prime mover, provides electric power to convenience outlets, appliances, and heating cooling units. Based on a mode of a transmission coupled to the prime mover, one of a plurality of control schemes is selected to control the power provided by the auxiliary electric power device.