Vessel Power Distribution via Independent DC Buses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power distribution systems for vessels require large, complex, and costly equipment with significant cabling, and are inefficient in terms of space and fuel consumption, lacking flexibility and redundancy.
Innovation Solution
A power distribution arrangement featuring independent DC buses operating at medium voltage with inverters for power flow between DC and AC buses, allowing for flexible power sharing and reduced cabling needs, along with the integration of batteries as a power source, enabling seamless operation and reduced equipment complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If conventional power distribution systems with medium voltage switch gears, transformers and VFDs are used, then necessary power can be provided to consumers, but a large amount of voluminous equipment and considerable cabling is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates traditional heavy equipment components (switch gears, transformers, VFDs) from the power distribution system, replacing them with a simplified DC-based architecture using DC-DC converters and DC circuit breakers, thereby reducing equipment volume while maintaining power provision capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the conventional AC power distribution system with a DC power distribution system, replacing mechanical/electromagnetic transformation components (transformers) with electronic conversion components (DC-DC converters), resulting in smaller equipment footprint and reduced cabling requirements
2Power
If conventional power distribution systems are used, then power can be distributed to consumers, but generators need to have a considerable capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental operating parameters from AC to DC power distribution, enabling more efficient power transmission and utilization. This parameter change allows for reduced generator capacity requirements while maintaining adequate power distribution capability to all consumers
3Power
If conventional power distribution systems are used, then power can be supplied to consumers, but the systems are complex and require maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power distribution system into independent DC buses and modular DC-DC converter units, each with its own protection and control. This segmentation simplifies the overall system architecture, reduces interdependencies, and makes the system easier to maintain while preserving power supply capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control capabilities in the DC-DC converters and circuit breakers, enabling real-time adjustment of power flow and rapid response to faults. This dynamic operation simplifies system management and reduces maintenance requirements compared to static conventional systems
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 solution reduces equipment size and fuel consumption, provides flexible power distribution, and ensures reliable operation with reduced maintenance needs, allowing for efficient power sharing and rapid response to failures.
Implementation Method 1
a first inverter coupled between the first DC bus and the first AC bus for allowing power flow from the first DC bus to the first AC bus
Data Source
AI summary
An arrangement for power distribution on a vessel, having: a first DC bus operating at a first medium voltage; at least one second DC bus operating at a second medium voltage and having no direct connection with the first DC bus; a first AC bus operating at a low voltage; a first inverter coupled between the first DC bus and the first AC bus for allowing power flow from the first DC bus to the first AC bus in a first operation mode; a second AC bus operating at the low voltage; a second inverter coupled between the second DC bus and the second AC bus for allowing power flow from the second DC bus to the second AC bus in the first operation mode; a low voltage connection system for selectively connecting or disconnecting the first AC bus and the second AC bus.