Vessel Power Bus Configuration for Single-Source Redundant Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In marine vessels, the power system operates in redundant mode when near a dynamic position zone, requiring both power sources to generate excess electrical power, leading to unnecessary fuel consumption and emissions, even when lower power demands are needed.
Innovation Solution
A power system configuration where a first AC bus is connected to a first power source and a second AC bus is isolated when the second power source is not operating, allowing the first power source to supply both buses through a DC bus and inverters, reducing the need for the second power source to operate and minimizing fuel consumption and emissions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the power system operates in redundant mode with both power sources running, then system reliability is improved, but fuel consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the operating mode of power sources based on real-time power demand and system state. The controller monitors whether the vessel is in DP zone or other zones, and automatically switches between single power source operation and dual power source redundant operation, making the system flexible rather than static
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of power sources based on different operating conditions. When power demand is low (in DP zone), the system reduces the number of operating power sources from two to one, changing the system parameter from dual-operation mode to single-operation mode to match the actual power requirements
2Reliability
If both power sources operate in redundant mode, then system reliability is improved, but emissions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the operating mode of power sources based on real-time power demand and system state. The controller monitors whether the vessel is in DP zone or other zones, and automatically switches between single power source operation and dual power source redundant operation, making the system flexible rather than static
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of power sources based on different operating conditions. When power demand is low (in DP zone), the system reduces the number of operating power sources from two to one, changing the system parameter from dual-operation mode to single-operation mode to match the actual power requirements
3Adaptability or versatility
If the bus tie is in closed position connecting both AC buses, then power distribution flexibility is improved, but the ability to isolate faults is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The bus tie switch dynamically changes its state based on system conditions. The controller monitors power source operation status and automatically opens or closes the bus tie switch to achieve optimal configuration - closed when both power sources operate for flexibility, open when one power source operates for fault isolation
Solution Approach 2:
The bus tie switch acts as an intermediary element that can be dynamically controlled to either connect or isolate the two AC buses. This intermediary component enables the system to switch between integrated operation (both buses connected) and isolated operation (buses separated), providing both flexibility and fault isolation capabilities as needed
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 allows for reduced fuel consumption and emissions by ensuring only the necessary power is generated, improving operational efficiency and environmental impact while maintaining system redundancy.
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
Data Source
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AI summary
A power system (102) of a vessel includes a first AC bus (104); a second AC bus (106); a bus tie (108) that electrically disconnects the first AC bus (104) and the second AC bus (106) when in an open position; a first power source (110) and a first set of one or more non-propulsion components of the vessel that are electrically connected to the first AC bus (104); a second power source (112) and a second set of one or more non-propulsion components of the vessel that are electrically connected to the second AC bus (106); a DC bus (114); a first transformer (116) that galvanically isolates the DC bus (114) from the first AC bus (104); a second transformer (118) that galvanically isolates the DC bus (114) from the second AC bus (106); a first AC/DC inverter (120) coupled between the first AC bus (104) and the DC bus (114); and a second AC/DC inverter (122) coupled between the second AC bus (106) and the DC bus (114).