Route Optimisation of ships equipped with Wind Assisted Ship Propulsion

Abstract

In the face of climate change and escalating pollution, the pursuit of carbon neutrality stands as a crucial endeavour across industries. Decarbonizing the global shipping sector has emerged as an urgent necessity as it is a major player in global greenhouse gas emissions. The International Maritime Organisation has responded to this imperative by formulating policies and initiatives to curb greenhouse gas emissions and realizing carbon neutrality within the shipping sector. To realise this ambitious goal, various approaches and technologies have been recommended, with the implementation of Wind Assisted Propul-sion Systems emerging as one of the pivotal techniques. When incorporating wind-assisted propulsion into a shipping vessel to enhance thrust and propul-sion, the efficiency of wind-assisted propulsion systems is intrinsically tied to wind dynamics. Accordingly, optimising a new shipping route by considering prevailing wind patterns holds the potential to enhance the efficiency of wind-assisted propulsion systems. This, in turn, can decrease reliance on the vessel’s engine for propulsion, leading to reduced fuel consumption and emissions. This master’s thesis aims to contribute to this goal by developing a Route Optimi-sation Model specifically designed for ships utilising wind-assisted propulsion systems. The model’s algorithm of choice for optimisation and route gen-eration is dynamic programming, a methodical approach well-suited for the complexities inherent in route optimisation. Embracing a comprehensive per-spective, various voyage objectives are factored into the model, facilitating the examination of resulting route modifications aligned with these objectives. This investigation forms an integral component of the overarching initiative led by the Institute of Maritime Energy Systems at the Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e.V. - German Aerospace Centre’s broader objective of bringing sustainability to the shipping industry. As a part of this undertaking, several models have been developed. Foremost among these developments is the creation of a Performance Prediction Program specifically designed for rigid wing sails along with a wind data extraction module. Both the performance prediction program and the wind data extraction module are altered to meet the requirements and utilised in the ROM presented in this master’s thesis. To evaluate the route optimisation model, two route segments from the overall journey of a bulk carrier for the year 2019 were selected, specifically in the Indian Ocean and the North Atlantic Ocean. The route optimisation model simulates new optimal routes for various voyage objectives, and a comparative study is subsequently conducted to discern how the optimal route impacts fuel consumption and journey duration relative to different voyage objectives. The study’s findings reveal a significant reduction in emissions achieved through route optimisation, complementing the emission reductions already attained by implementing wind-assisted propulsion systems on a vessel. Consequently,the integration of wind-assisted propulsion with route optimisation emerges as a pivotal approach in advancing the cause of carbon neutrality within the global shipping industry.