Electronic system and method of automating, controlling, and optimizing the operation of failsafe energy storage for electric outboard motors and for marine hybrid propulsion systems

Abstract

A method of integrating, optimizing and combining in a marine electric or hybrid system, the operation and safety of one or more energy storage units, a combination of one or more electric outboard(s) and ICE outboard(s) in a propulsion systems through use of an Energy Management Computer. One aspect of the invention involves the application of logic programming to automate the optimization and the operation of the Internal Combustion Engines (STANDARD OUTBOARD) so that whenever the system requires their usage, they are operated at optimum efficiency conditions. For a STANDARD OUTBOARD to operate at peak efficiency a combination of a large energy storage unit used as a buffer combined with electric outboard(s) is used.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 760,373, filed Feb. 4, 2013, the entire content of which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTIONS[0002]The present inventions generally relate to marine electric propulsion outboard motors. Some embodiments include electric outboard motors rated from 50 hp to 300 hp that use high voltage (240-600 volts) for operation as well as marine hybrid propulsion systems. Some embodiments include definition, programming, parameterization and safety systems of an electronic management device, such as a computer, to interface, integrate, optimize, automate and simplify the operation of one or more electric outboards and associated energy storage units. One or more of such electric outboard motors can also be used in combination with one or more ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) powered outboard propulsion systems.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONS[0003]With the advent of...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention aims to utilize automation to mix and match different technologies in a transparent fashion, so that a normal unskilled user is able to operate a relatively complex marine vessel. Specifically, the invention includes the use of electric motors in combination with ICE propulsion engines, which reduces or eliminates the use of conventional ICE powered marine outboard engines that use petroleum products. This results in a quieter, cleaner, and more efficient marine vessel that can operate in various speed regimes, from low-speed operations to high-speed operations. The electric motors provide improved acceleration and increased efficiency at low speeds, and they can be shut down or used as a water generator to recharge the vessel's energy storage unit. Overall, the invention allows for greater operational flexibility, efficiency, and environmental friendliness of marine vessels.

Problems solved by technology

As in the automotive industry, the issues of ample electric energy storage is not yet resolved, whether due to cost, volume or weight.

One of the difficulties in the development of high-powered (50 hp-300 hp) outboard engines, is that high voltage (240-600 volts) is more optimal for obtaining reasonable efficiencies, heat or current carrying reasons, creating a challenge to develop systems that are safe, reliable and cost effective.

Another difficulty is the adoption of hybrid propulsion to the marine energy is the current use large ESUs with the inherent issues relating to their different technologies.

However, anytime there is a large amount on energy stored, like fossil fuel, batteries or hydrogen, there is a risk of fire or explosion.

A battery-initiated fire on a marine vessel can be as dangerous as a fire caused by fuel.

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