Ship Hybrid AC DC Electrical Network Architecture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrical architectures on ships face energy losses due to multiple conversions between alternating voltage (AC) and direct voltage (DC) systems, which hinder efficient operation of diesel generator sets regardless of load conditions.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid electrical architecture that combines AC and DC voltage systems with independent energy sources and switches, allowing selective connection to either network, and includes reversible converters to optimize energy efficiency by adjusting speed and load-based power distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If Diesel-alternator groups operate at variable speed to optimize fuel consumption, then energy efficiency improves, but multiple AC/DC and DC/AC conversions are required which cause energy losses
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical network is segmented into two independent distribution networks: a first AC voltage network and a second DC voltage network. This allows different energy sources to serve different networks according to their operating characteristics, avoiding unnecessary conversions while optimizing fuel consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
A reversible converter acts as an intermediary between the AC and DC networks, enabling power transfer when needed while maintaining the independence of both networks. This mediator allows the system to leverage both AC and DC architectures without forcing all power through multiple conversions.
2Stability of the object's composition
If AC voltage architecture is used with Diesel-alternator groups, then constant frequency can be maintained, but the generators must operate at constant speed regardless of load conditions reducing efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the electrical distribution into AC and DC networks, allowing AC-connected generators to maintain constant frequency for frequency-sensitive loads while DC-connected generators can operate at variable speed for optimization, resolving the conflict between frequency stability and fuel efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically assigns generators to AC or DC networks based on load conditions and generator operating characteristics. Generators can switch between networks as needed, enabling dynamic optimization of fuel consumption while maintaining frequency stability where required.
3Adaptability or versatility
If DC voltage architecture with AC/DC and DC/AC converters is implemented, then variable-speed operation of generators is enabled, but energy losses from conversions reduce the advantage
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the distribution network into independent AC and DC systems, the invention allows generators to connect directly to the appropriate network without requiring AC/DC or DC/AC conversions, thereby maintaining variable-speed operation benefits while eliminating conversion losses for most power transfers.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges AC and DC distribution architectures into a hybrid system where both networks coexist and can serve different loads simultaneously. This combination allows the system to leverage the advantages of both AC (frequency stability) and DC (variable-speed operation) without the penalties of multiple conversions.
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 hybrid architecture reduces energy losses and optimizes fuel consumption by minimizing unnecessary conversions, achieving a 5-10% savings in overall energy consumption based on load conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a switch for connecting said energy source selectively either with the first network or with the second network
Implementation Method 2
it comprises at least one reversible converter configured to transfer energy from the first network to the second network and vice versa
Implementation Method 3
between said power source and the second DC voltage distribution network there is at least one AC voltage/DC voltage converter
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The present invention relates in particular to a ship electrical installation which includes at least one power source (SE1, SE2, SE3, SE4) of alternating current, characterized in that it comprises a first network (R1, R1') of alternating current supply associated with a first set of electrical devices (C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, C6) which equip the ship, a second network (R2) of direct current supply associated with a second set of electrical devices (C7, C8, C9, C10) which equip the ship, as well as a switch (COM) of said power source (SE1, SE2, SE3, SE4) selectively either with the first network (R1, R1'), or with the second network (R2).