Propulsion control optimization using detailed simulation of engine/propeller interaction

A conventional propulsion system has inherently a very substantial degree of self-regulation regarding speed control. Therefore, in steady state conditions the ability of the engine to adapt to changing parameters has only limited use. It is the controlling and optimizing of the behaviour during transient phenomena where improved control of the machinery becomes important. The control of the machinery even in conventional terms (e.g. Speed or load control) cannot be considered independently from the effects and responses of the propulsion system and the behaviour of the propeller, the rudder, the ships hull resistance and the kinematics of the whole ship. Simple data-driven engine models used in some studies to simulate the engine behaviour for theoretical predictions of engine response, do not possess the required granularity and thus cannot be used for the simulation and prediction of the whole system behaviour. Instead, very detailed and accurate engine performance prediction models are required, which include extensive representation of turbocharger characteristics, as well as engine governor and dynamic response modeling. Detailed mathematical modeling of the whole engine-ship system and the simulation of its behaviour on a computer have been used to tackle these complex problems.