Submarine DC Supply Network Hull Grounding
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity and space inefficiency of submarine direct current (DC) supply networks due to the need for numerous circuit breakers to prevent short circuits, which are exacerbated by the use of multiple sub-supply networks and the occurrence of arcs during high current switching.
Innovation Solution
Permanent grounding of one pole of the DC supply network to the submarine's electrically conductive hull, with the other pole remaining isolated, allowing for reduced circuit breaker requirements and simplified network structure, while maintaining safety through strategic placement of circuit breakers and sub-network separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If circuit breakers are installed in all lines connected to negative and positive poles to prevent short circuits, then safety is improved, but device complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the grounding function from the circuit breaker system and assigns it to the hull structure itself. By making the hull the reference potential and connecting only the negative pole to it, the need for circuit breakers in negative lines is eliminated, while safety is maintained through the hull's inherent grounding capability
Solution Approach 2:
The hull structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural integrity, acts as the reference potential (ground), and serves as the return path for electrical current. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate grounding conductors and reduces the number of required circuit breakers
2Reliability
If circuit breakers with extinguishing devices and safety distances are installed, then short-circuit protection is improved, but space consumption increases considerably
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the need for extensive switch cabinets with arc chambers and safety distances by eliminating circuit breakers from the negative pole lines. The hull itself serves as the protective reference potential, reducing the space required for protection devices
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical grounding function is merged with the hull structure, which already serves as the mechanical and structural framework of the submarine. This integration eliminates the need for separate protection devices and their associated space requirements
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 significantly reduces the number of circuit breakers needed, conserves space, and ensures defined potential relationships, enhancing the reliability and operational safety of the DC supply network by allowing partial power retention during sub-network failures.
Implementation Method 1
one pole of the DC supply network is electrically connected to an electrically conductive part of the hull of the submarine
Implementation Method 2
permanent grounding of the DC supply network is provided on the electrically conductive steel structure
Data Source
AI summary
The submarine has a direct current supply network and a pole of the direct current supply network is connected permanently in an electrically conducting manner with an electrically conducting part of a ship hull. The direct current supply network is a drive network (2) for power supply of a propeller engine. An energy consumer, an energy storage and an energy producer are connected at the direct current supply network if a circuit breaker is connected upstream.