Ship Redundant Power Supply via Switching Device
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The control of power supply to electric motors in ships' longitudinal propulsion systems is complex due to the reliance on multiple frequency converters and isolation devices, making it difficult to efficiently manage power distribution based on speed and position parameters.
Innovation Solution
A ship with an additional power supply system connected via a switching device to both electric motors, allowing for redundancy and flexibility in power distribution, including bidirectional frequency converters that can convert terrestrial power frequencies for onboard use, and the ability to supply or absorb reactive energy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple frequency converters and isolation devices are used for power supply control, then power distribution control capability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple frequency converters and isolation devices into a single frequency converter with integrated isolation capability. This single device can supply power to both electric motors while providing electrical isolation, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining power distribution control capability through its ability to independently control power to each motor.
Solution Approach 2:
The single frequency converter is designed with multi-functionality to perform multiple roles: it acts as a power converter for both motors, provides electrical isolation, and enables independent power control to each motor. This universal device replaces several specialized components, simplifying the overall system architecture.
2Reliability
If redundant power supply systems are implemented for each motor, then system reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines redundant power supply capabilities into a single frequency converter that can independently control and supply power to both electric motors. This integrated approach provides reliability through the ability to supply power to either motor independently while reducing the number of separate redundant components needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The single frequency converter possesses self-service capabilities to maintain system reliability. It can independently manage power distribution to each motor, detect faults, and reconfigure power supply paths without requiring external intervention or additional complex control systems, thereby ensuring continuous operation despite potential failures.
3Reliability
If independent power supply systems are used for each motor, then power supply reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The single frequency converter with multi-functionality simplifies operation by providing centralized control over power distribution to both motors. Operators can control power supply to each motor independently through this single device, maintaining reliability while improving ease of operation through unified management and reduced control complexity.
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 simplifies power supply management, ensures 100% redundancy in case of system failures, increases availability, and allows for nominal power supply even during bus faults, while reducing harmonic distortion and enabling shore-based power utilization without diesel engines.
Implementation Method 1
each power supply system comprises two frequency converters connected in parallel to the AC network
Implementation Method 2
Each frequency converter of a respective power supply system is connected to the corresponding electric motor via an isolating device, the isolating device being adapted to electrically isolate this converter from the corresponding electric motor
Implementation Method 3
an additional system for supplying power to the electric motors, the additional power system comprising a single power output and being connected to the two electric motors via a switching device
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
This ship (10) extending in a longitudinal direction (X), comprises an electrical network (12) and a longitudinal propulsion chain (14) connected to the electrical network (12), the longitudinal propulsion chain (14) comprising: - two longitudinal thrusters (34) capable of moving the ship (10) in its longitudinal direction (X), and for each longitudinal thruster (34): + an electric motor (36) for driving the longitudinal thruster (34), connected to the input of said thruster (34), + a system (38) for supplying the electric motor (36), connected to the input of said motor (36) and connected to the electrical network (12).The ship further comprises an additional system (40) for supplying the electric motors (36), the additional supply system (40) comprising a single power output and being connected to the two electric motors (36) via a switching device (42), the switching device (42) being capable of connecting one or the other of the two electric motors (36) to the single power output of the additional supply system (40).