Optimization with load prediction in asynchronous generator driven tugboat propulsion system

Mostly tugboats are powered by diesel-electric generators for meeting power of auxiliary loads and of electric motors for propulsive load. This paper proposes the optimal fuel management in diesel-electric generators considering doubly fed asynchronous machine (DFAM) as generator. An optimization problem is formulated to schedule the available power sources aiming for best possible fuel efficiency. The performance of optimal control strategies critically depends on future load applied in generator. Considering this for predicting tugboat load demand a simple predictive methodology is proposed based on the average mode time per cycle. The proposed control mechanism is able to respond to any sudden load change and also to emergency halt condition. DFAM as generator is considered for improving the system efficiency at low load region. Speed of the diesel engine is decided by the load demand. Output voltage and frequency of DFAM at variable speeds are regulated by power electronic convertors, connected in rotor circuit.