Architectural Model to Enable Power System Tradeoff Studies

We continue the development of an overall architectural model for an all-electric ship using a physics-based simulation environment to perform fully-integrated simulation of electrical, hydrodynamic, thermal, and structural components of the ship operating in a seaway.  The goal of this architectural model is to develop an early-stage design tool capable of performing tradeoff studies on concepts such as AC vs. DC distribution, frequency and voltage level, inclusion of reduction gears, energy and power management options, and effect of arrangements and topology.  The results of the studies will be presented in standard metrics including cost, weight, volume, efficiency/fuel consumption, reliability and vulnerability.  We will specifically look at the hull, mechanical and electrical (HM&E) systems that support the ship and its missions; specifically, the electrical generation and distribution system, propulsion equipment, fresh- and saltwater pumping and distribution, control systems, and structural components.

We have previously created a basic design tool which uses hullform, drive train particulars, and operational employment of the vessel to determine resistance, powering and fuel usage.  This report details the specification of the notional ship and modeling thereof in Paramarine, the analysis and prioritization of the electrical load on the notional ship, the initial modeling of in-zone power conversion equipment, and the development of pertinent metrics, especially the vulnerability metric.