Battery Control Algorithm for Merchant Ships Using Load Usage Area

Algorithms to increase energy consumption efficiency by using batteries in merchant ships are being studied. The types of generators used in merchant ships include diesel generators, dual fuel generators, and variable speed generators. The combination of sources targeted in this study is a hybrid source in which a diesel generator and a battery are linked. The use of batteries should configure the algorithm to have stability and efficiency of the ship's power supply. The proposed algorithm consists of 1) following the load usage range on board, 2) deriving a factor considering the battery power conversion efficiency, 3) classifying the load cases by each factor, and 4) determining the battery status for each case. The algorithm was simulated using the power usage data used in the actual ship, and the stability and efficiency of the algorithm were evaluated. As a result, the proposed algorithm can reduce the capacity of the generator and reduce fuel consumption by about 170 tons per year.