Creating an Eco Mode for boat stabilizing systems to improve energy efficiency and reduce unnecessary power consumption. Most current stabilizing systems operate at maximum motor speed regardless of actual demand, leading to wasted energy, increased fuel consumption, and added mechanical wear on system components. The goal of this project is to design and implement an intelligent control system that uses a variable frequency drive (VFD) to dynamically adjust motor speed based on real-time pressure and flow requirements. By incorporating sensor feedback such as hydraulic pressure, flow rate, and motor current, the system can estimate load conditions and optimize pump output accordingly. This approach allows the stabilizing system to maintain required performance during rough sea conditions while significantly reducing power usage during calmer conditions. The control strategy includes a programmable logic controller (PLC) that utilizes lookup tables and adaptive control logic to ensure smooth transitions and prevent sudden power spikes. Overall, the Eco Mode system aims to improve fuel efficiency, reduce operational costs, extend equipment lifespan, and provide a more sustainable solution for marine stabilization systems without compromising performance or reliability.

Our team collaborated with Mechanical Engineering 27 on this project.