OVERVIEW

In a context where electrification represents a key factor for innovation and sustainability in the maritime sector, the teaching provides the foundations to understand and tackle the complexity of modern shipboard electrical systems. The subject forms an essential part of the training pathway to acquire skills in the analysis, modelling, and control of onboard electrical systems, by integrating theoretical knowledge with simulation tools oriented towards model-based design.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The course aims to explain the methodological and technological aspects of propulsion and generation systems. It focuses on the main architectures and solutions used for propulsion services, integrated generation systems, and their control and regulation systems.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

At the end of the course, the student will be able to:

• Describe integrated power systems of generation and propulsion, considering the main aspects related to control, stability, power quality, and power management.
• Analyse the fundamental operation and characteristics of power converters typically used in marine propulsion systems, including the main associated control techniques.
• Develop simplified models of shipboard electrical systems using MATLAB/Simulink simulation tools, aimed at supporting design decisions.
• Communicate, both in writing and oral forms, technical analyses, simulation results, and design aspects related to marine electrical systems to a qualified technical audience.

PREREQUISITES

There are no specific requirements.

TEACHING METHODS

The course consists of a structured combination of theoretical lectures and guided classroom exercises.

Teaching activities are complemented by practical computer-based sessions, during which students use MATLAB/Simulink simulation software for the analysis and modelling of electrical systems.

Students with valid certifications for Specific Learning Disorders (SLDs), disabilities or other educational needs are invited to contact the teacher and the School's disability liaison at the beginning of teaching to agree on possible teaching arrangements that, while respecting the teaching objectives, take into account individual learning patterns.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

The course covers the following topics:

• Electric propulsion systems: definitions, main characteristics, and typical propulsion layout solutions (IFEP, series and parallel hybrid configurations).
• Converters and drives: main types of components and power electronic converters, operating principles, and an overview of key control techniques for classical AC/DC, DC/AC, and DC/DC systems (controlled rectifiers, cycloconverters, PWM systems).
• Drives with induction motors: simple modelling of the asynchronous machine, mechanical load coupling, steady-state operation, and starting techniques.
• Energy storage systems: classification and simplified modelling of electrochemical storage systems and fuel cells.
• Fundamentals of AC and DC marine power systems: plant configurations, voltage levels, power quality, operating states, and stability requirements.
• Review of the synchronous machine: fundamental equations, steady-state conditions, P-delta curve, and theoretical stability limits.
• Excitation systems: general classification, review of structural characteristics, and voltage regulation techniques.
• Equation of motion of the synchronous generator: derivation of the swing equation and behaviour of unregulated systems.
• Power-frequency control: isochronous and droop speed governors, regulation characteristics in multi-machine systems, with an introduction to secondary frequency control.
• Power management: start-up and synchronisation of generating units (unit commitment), start-stop schedules, and key functionalities of the Power Management System (PMS).
• Cold ironing: shore-connection infrastructure and innovative aspects related to ship-port integration.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

1. M. Piattelli, “Propulsione elettrica Navale”, 206

2. Patel, “Shipboard Propulsion, Power Electronics, and Ocean Energy”, 2012

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

Exam Board

FEDERICO SILVESTRO (President)

MATTEO SAVIOZZI

FABIO D'AGOSTINO (President Substitute)

LESSONS

LESSONS START

Information on the academic calendar is available at the following link:  https://corsi.unige.it/corsi/8738/studenti-orario 

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The examination consists of a practical exercise followed by an oral interview. 

The practical exercise consists of developing, within the MATLAB/Simulink simulation environment, a computer model selected from topics proposed by the professor among those outlined in the specific learning objectives. 
This must be accompanied by a technical report critically describing the methodology employed and the results obtained. 
The submission is due at least one week prior to the oral interview. 

The oral interview, lasting approximately 45 minutes, is conditional upon a positive evaluation of the practical exercise. The exam date is arranged by appointment upon request.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

The examination aims to assess the acquisition of theoretical and methodological knowledge related to the design and management of shipboard electrical power and propulsion systems. The practical exercise evaluates the student’s ability to use design support tools based on modelling and simulation, as well as to accurately model electrical systems and their associated control systems. The oral examination assesses the student’s ability to present and discuss the theoretical and methodological aspects of shipboard electrical systems, with particular focus on generation and propulsion systems. During the oral exam, clarity of exposition, appropriate use of technical terminology, autonomy and critical reasoning skills, correct use of measurement units, and proficiency in referencing interdisciplinary aspects will be evaluated.

Exam schedule

FURTHER INFORMATION

Ask the professor for other information not included in the teaching schedule.