Vessel AC/DC Bus Architecture for Single-Source Power Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power systems in vessels consume excess fuel and generate unnecessary emissions when operating in redundant mode due to both power sources providing electrical power, even when lower demands are required, leading to inefficiency and environmental impact.
Innovation Solution
A power system design with a bus tie that connects and disconnects AC buses, allowing a single power source to supply power to both AC buses through DC inversion, reducing the need for the second power source to operate, and incorporating energy storage systems to optimize power distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If both power sources operate in redundant mode, then system reliability is improved, but fuel consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between redundant mode (both power sources operating) and single-power-source mode (one power source operating) based on real-time operational conditions. The controller monitors power quality, load demands, and component status to determine when to transition modes, allowing the system to adapt its configuration rather than operating statically in redundant mode at all times.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller changes operational parameters by detecting anomalies in power quality (voltage deviations, frequency variations, harmonic distortions) and load conditions, then transitions the system from dual-power-source operation to single-power-source operation when parameters indicate the non-operating power source can be safely isolated, thereby reducing fuel consumption while maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If both power sources operate in redundant mode, then system reliability is improved, but emissions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its operational configuration based on real-time conditions, switching between redundant and single-power-source modes. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to minimize emissions by operating with one power source when conditions permit, while still maintaining the reliability benefits of having a second power source available for rapid activation if needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system converts the potential harm of reduced redundancy into benefit by using sophisticated monitoring and control to detect when the second power source can be safely taken offline. The controller identifies opportunities to reduce emissions by transitioning to single-power-source operation, effectively turning the limitation of reduced redundancy into an environmental benefit while maintaining system reliability through rapid fault detection and response capabilities.
3Use of energy by moving object
If single power source supplies both AC buses, then fuel efficiency is improved, but power distribution complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The operating power source performs multiple functions by supplying power to both AC bus 1 and AC bus 2 through the DC bus and inverter system. The single power source acts as a universal power provider that can serve multiple loads and multiple buses, eliminating the need for both power sources to operate simultaneously while maintaining complete power distribution capability to all vessel systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The DC bus and inverter system serve as intermediaries that enable the single operating power source to supply both AC buses. The AC/DC inverter converts AC power from the single operating source to DC, which then feeds the DC bus, and the DC/AC inverter converts DC back to AC for the second AC bus, mediating the power transfer and simplifying the overall power distribution architecture.
4Adaptability or versatility
If bus tie is closed, then power distribution flexibility is improved, but fault propagation risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bus tie dynamically transitions between closed and open positions based on real-time system conditions. The controller monitors power quality, load balance, and fault status to determine the optimal bus tie position, allowing the system to adapt its electrical topology rather than maintaining a fixed configuration. This dynamic control enables the system to maximize flexibility when safe and minimize fault propagation risk when necessary.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller uses feedback from sensors monitoring power quality, load conditions, and system status to continuously adjust the bus tie position. When sensors detect imbalances, faults, or conditions favoring isolated operation, the controller provides feedback to open the bus tie, preventing fault propagation. When conditions are favorable, feedback indicates the bus tie can remain closed to maximize power distribution flexibility and efficiency.
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
Reduces fuel consumption and emissions by minimizing the operation of one power source, while ensuring efficient power supply to propulsion and non-propulsion components, thereby improving fuel efficiency and extending the life of the non-operating power source.
Implementation Method 1
a first transformer that galvanically isolates the DC bus from the first AC bus; a second transformer that galvanically isolates the DC bus from the second AC bus
Implementation Method 2
a first AC/DC inverter coupled between the first AC bus and the DC bus; a second AC/DC inverter coupled between the second AC bus and the DC bus
Data Source
AI summary
A power system of a vessel includes a first AC bus; a second AC bus; a bus tie that electrically disconnects the first AC bus and the second AC bus when in an open position; a first power source and a first set of one or more non-propulsion components of the vessel that are electrically connected to the first AC bus; a second power source and a second set of one or more non-propulsion components of the vessel that are electrically connected to the second AC bus; a DC bus; a first transformer that galvanically isolates the DC bus from the first AC bus; a second transformer that galvanically isolates the DC bus from the second AC bus; a first AC/DC inverter coupled between the first AC bus and the DC bus; and a second AC/DC inverter coupled between the second AC bus and the DC bus.