The necessary control and monitoring signals for electric power generation, propulsion and AC-network are all handled by the standardized Onboard Microgrid control system, considerably decreasing the amount of project-specific integration work.
The dimensions of one OMD880LC-unit are 2.1 x 0.8 x 1.3 meters, making it suitable for very low clearage spaces, and the water-cooled cabinet can be placed freely in engine room. In addition to the drive unit itself, space is needed for cooling units, AC-switchboards and transformers for AC network and shore connection. Shore connection systems and battery energy storage solutions are as such not part of Onboard Microgrid, but the system is designed to connect to and control both systems.
Use of DC-bus and electric drives makes it possible to adapt the same hardware in several configurations. In its simplest form, Onboard Microgrid can be used as traditional diesel-electric drive train without energy storage or shore connection systems. In this form, it provides advanced propulsion control and power management functions for a multi-engine electric propulsion plant.
The standard Onboard Microgrid integrated control system supports two-directional operation. The key feature is double-ended mode propulsion control, which sets the power of the forward propeller as a function of aft propeller power. It also considers the direction of the vessel based on control location and allows the operator to de-activate the mode at any time.
Onboard Microgrid with battery energy storage in effect turns a diesel powered ferry into a hybrid vessel, with the possibility of optimizing engine load and operating in zero emission mode. Energy storage power and energy capacities should be optimized to match engine power and the operational profile of the vessel. One possible use case for a ferry would be zero emissions during harbor stays and maneuvering. Batteries are recharged during the voyage, and the charging power is adjusted to run diesel engines at optimum load. Lower power requirements during maneuvering and time in harbor can be covered by stored battery energy.
Shore connection adds new possibilities for operation of Onboard Microgrid and battery energy storage. In its simplest form this can be a low power supply enabling cold ironing, and possibly slow charging of onboard batteries. It can also be an automated high-power fast charging system for full electric zero emission operation.
Integrated system platform
Onboard Microgrid was designed to make shipbuilding and system integration easier. The compact package with DC distribution and all main drives and associated controls within a single unit means savings in engineering and construction. The benefits include a smaller number of components to install, fewer cables to pull and connect, and fewer interfaces to design and test.
Owners also benefit from a truly integrated system. A robust water-cooled DC-system provides high reliability and long lifetime. Use of single frequency converter type and a single control system for all main drives reduces spare part stocks and simplifies troubleshooting. Finally, for the operator, the Onboard Microgrid user interface enables control and monitoring of electric power generation and propulsion systems through a single, intuitive HMI.