Most people likely have a fairly simple idea of large ship operations. The schedule to get from point A to B calls for a specific speed to complete the distance on time, so the bridge orders the engine room to run as necessary to maintain the required speed. Done. It can be that easy, but in the real world, operations must consider fuel efficiency, emissions, and overall profitability. Far more factors enter into the picture.
Emerson has a history of developing control platforms to optimize complex processes, such as oil refining, capable of working with many interrelated variables and trade-offs. Container and ro-ro vessels have their own complex relationships as they adopt a variety of approaches to increase efficiency: better propellers, slipperier paint on the hull, and so forth, all aim at greater fuel efficiency. One more layer that Emerson can add is the topic of my article in The Maritime Executive, The Future of Fleet Efficiency is Stacked Optimization.
Many operators view fleet efficiency and energy-saving technologies (ESTs) as either/or solutions. True operational excellence comes from stacking efficiencies. Every conventional EST contributes measurable gains, whether it is routine hull cleaning, applying anti-fouling paint, or propeller upgrades. The Aperio SmartPropulsion optimization solution complements other ESTs, stacking directly on top of them and increasing the cumulative benefits.
That sounds good, but what does Emerson’s Aperio SmartPropulsion actually do? Stated simply, it looks at all the ship’s systems and operating conditions (ship draft, trim, weather, sea conditions, and other factors) to determine the optimal vessel propulsion in light of changing internal and external factors. An experienced crew will certainly try to do this manually, but finding the best intersection of minimal fuel consumption and optimal engine performance in real time can be improved with automated functionality.
Software-driven dynamic optimization extracts the maximum possible performance from every underlying asset by continuously factoring in actual feedback conditions and propulsion capabilities. It uses self-learning optimization algorithms that analyze and act on data such as speed over ground (SOG), speed through water (STW), draft, trim, weather conditions, and engine performance, to identify the most efficient operating points. Hardware and software operate as an “add-on” solution, designed to integrate seamlessly with existing systems, sensors, and equipment, without altering underlying safety controls.
That’s a lot of benefits, but the system is surprisingly easy to install, and it doesn’t alter the basic safety-related operation of any underlying systems. Most of the system can be installed over a few days while underway, with no dry dock or other downtime necessary. Plus, it does not cancel or reduce the benefits of any existing ESTs. If that’s not enough:
Beyond immediate fuel use reduction, it serves as a vital framework for predictive maintenance and regulatory reporting. Instead of performing maintenance and overhaul activities on a calendar-based schedule, fleet managers can forecast and schedule the work when it is most cost-effective. Furthermore, the platform is fully class-certified and complies with IACS UR E27 cybersecurity standards.
To sum up:
The solution installs quickly on top of any existing systems, is easy to use, and delivers benefits that combine seamlessly with other conventional efficiency-enhancing technologies as part of a multi-layer optimization approach. Emerson’s propulsion optimization solution delivers an engine-safe, stackable approach for countering rising expenses and meeting environmental legislation.
For more information, visit Emerson’s Propulsion Optimization System pages at Emerson.com. You can also connect and interact with other engineers at the Emerson Exchange 365 community.
