Power-Electronic-Based DC Distribution Systems for Electrically Propelled Vessels: A multivariable Modeling Approach for Design and Analysis

Abstract

The benefits of using power-electronic-based dc distribution systems in electrically propelled vessels are well known. However, some aspects must be deeply analyzed to guarantee a safe, robust, and stable system by design. This paper presents a multivariable dc distribution system mathematical model, where all the transmission lines and filters impedances are considered. The model has been tackled under a holistic approach in which the average small-signal model of the drives/converters can be easily added and “connected” to the main grid model. The stability and power quality analysis, as well as the design and tuning of controls and active damping strategies, can be conducted through this mathematical model at low computational cost. In this paper, the usefulness of this model in the early design stages is presented through its application over a realistic design scenario. Moreover, the performance of the proposed model is proven into a real test bench, which presents a configuration and architecture quite close to the one used in a real vessel. The carried out tests prove the suitability of the proposed model, becoming a significant tool to get an improved design.