Date of Award
5-2026
Degree Type
Thesis-Restricted
Degree Name
M.S.E.
Degree Program
Engineering and Applied Science - Naval Architecture & Marine
Department
Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering
Major Professor
Xiros, Nikolas
Abstract
This study presents the dynamic modeling and control of a parallel hybrid marine propulsion system for a ferry application. The increasing demand for energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable maritime transportation has driven the adoption of hybrid propulsion technologies that combine diesel engines with electric propulsion and energy storage systems. A control-oriented model of the propulsion system is developed by integrating diesel engine dynamics, electric motor/generator behavior, battery energy storage, propeller characteristics, and vessel longitudinal dynamics. The diesel engine is modeled using a mean-value engine model with brake-specific fuel consumption (BSFC) characteristics, while the electric propulsion system is represented using a dq-axis model of a permanent magnet synchronous machine. The propeller is modeled using Wageningen B-series data, and hull resistance is represented using a polynomial model. A rule-based energy management system is implemented to coordinate power distribution under a representative ferry mission profile. The model is implemented in MATLAB and validated using a Python-based simulation. Results show realistic engine performance, battery utilization, and propulsion dynamics, with an average BSFC of approximately 204 g/kWh. However, the system does not consistently sustain the required transit power, highlighting the importance of supervisory control strategies. This study demonstrates the need for integrated modeling and advanced control in hybrid marine propulsion systems and provides a foundation for future optimization-based energy management approaches.
Recommended Citation
Ukoha, Kelvin C. and Ukoha, Kelvin C., "Dynamic Modeling and Control of a Parallel Hybrid Marine Propulsion System" (2026). University of New Orleans Theses and Dissertations. 3370.
https://scholarworks.uno.edu/td/3370
Rights
The University of New Orleans and its agents retain the non-exclusive license to archive and make accessible this dissertation or thesis in whole or in part in all forms of media, now or hereafter known. The author retains all other ownership rights to the copyright of the thesis or dissertation.