In a significant stride towards optimizing ship hybrid power systems, a team of researchers led by Hao Qiu from the School of Naval Architecture, Ocean and Energy Power Engineering at Wuhan University of Technology has developed a novel forward modeling approach based on multi-loop feedback. This innovation, detailed in a recent study published in ‘Zhongguo Jianchuan Yanjiu’ (translated to English as ‘Chinese Shipbuilding Research’), aims to tackle the increasing complexity of hybrid power systems in the maritime industry.
The study focuses on a 7,500-ton inland bulk carrier operating on the Yangtze River, analyzing its power system’s topological structure and operational modes. The researchers constructed a diesel–gas–electric hybrid power system model in Simulink, incorporating a rule-based energy management strategy and a power controller. The model’s accuracy was evaluated using measured data, assessing fuel consumption, speed control response, charging and discharging characteristics, power generation behavior, and ship–engine–propeller matching.
The simulation results were impressive, with the model demonstrating excellent responses in terms of speed and power, accurately replicating the dynamic behavior of the target vessel with a margin of error less than 4%. “The ship–engine–propeller matching characteristics under four operating modes are consistent with those of the actual vessel,” Qiu noted, highlighting the model’s ability to capture the influence of intermediate losses, control dynamics, mode transitions, and converter disturbances on the energy management process.
One of the standout features of this model is its real-time simulation capability on dSPACE with a time step of 0.001 seconds, showcasing strong real-time performance. This advancement is crucial for the maritime industry, as it paves the way for more efficient and effective energy management strategies in hybrid power systems.
The commercial impacts of this research are substantial. As the maritime sector increasingly turns to hybrid power systems to reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency, accurate modeling and simulation tools become essential. These tools enable shipbuilders, operators, and engineers to optimize power system performance, reduce operational costs, and enhance environmental sustainability.
Qiu’s research offers a robust framework for developing energy management strategies, providing a valuable reference for long-term testing across full operating conditions. This work not only advances the technical capabilities within the industry but also opens up new opportunities for innovation and collaboration.
For maritime professionals, the implications are clear: improved modeling and simulation tools lead to better decision-making, enhanced operational efficiency, and a more sustainable future for the maritime sector. As the industry continues to evolve, the insights gained from this study will be instrumental in driving forward the adoption of hybrid power systems and achieving long-term sustainability goals.
In summary, Qiu’s work represents a significant step forward in the field of ship hybrid power systems, offering practical solutions and valuable insights for maritime professionals. The study’s findings, published in ‘Chinese Shipbuilding Research’, underscore the importance of advanced modeling techniques in optimizing energy management strategies and improving the overall performance of hybrid power systems.