Research topic
Increasing strict regulations on emitted pollution of maritime operations directed the energy efficiency practical approaches toward hybrid solutions. Moreover, modelling and simulation have a significant role in the investigation of systems behaviour for the aim of developing, enhancing and optimizations. Furthermore, numerical modelling and optimization methods enhance the approach of designers for obtaining the most efficient point of system configuration for specific goals and constraints. Since, for the aim of reaching the optimum state of the hybrid system configuration, the primary step is providing a high-fidelity model with flexibility in parameters and considering a control-oriented approach.
In previous PhD projects, the main components of hybrid power systems, such as generators, batteries and other mechanical and electrical devices have been accomplished. However, there are two research gaps, the first is a model of fuel cells package by flexibility in design, size and operation. The second is optimum decision-making strategy of the energy management system. As a result, developing these two areas facilitates investigating operation state of each component in way of minimizing the consumed fuel and emission regarding the load requirements
Objectives
In this PhD project, the main goal is reaching a package and methods of suggesting optimum hybrid power systems with flexibility in sizing, components configuration, system integration, and operations. Indeed, Multidisciplinary Design Optimization (MDO) is the fundamental optimization method that will be implemented in this project. The main objective in the first stage is developing a package of high-fidelity model of Fuel Cells system (FC) with the ability to suggest optimum size and construction. After defining the main parameters of FCs, the model will provide the specific FC operation in power system with an emphasis on dynamic response and control-oriented approach. The second stage is developing the Co-Simulation integration with vessel operation to investigate the power system behaviour in various operations with real time capabilities. Indeed, the developed power plant is generic and can be teste for different configurations and components sizes.
Expected results
- High Fidelity Modeling of various Fuel Cells
- Experimental Validation with Hybrid Power Systems Laboratory (HPS)
- Optimization of PMS in Operation
- Optimization in Sizing and Design by Multidisciplinary Design optimization
Achievements 2021
• Bond Graph Approach for Modelling of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell System (Conference-Published)
• Dynamic Modelling of PEM Fuel Cell System for Simulation and Sizing of Marine Power Systems (Journal-Accepted)
• System-Level Modeling of Marine Power Plant with PEMFC System and Battery (Journal-under review)
• Developing Co-Simulation approach for the vessel operation and the generic hybrid power plant
