The newly founded DLR Institute of Maritime Energy Systems in Geesthacht researches and develops innovative solutions for enabling increased utilization of renewable energy in waterborne transport, towards decarbonization and emissions reduction of shipping. The institute is building a large-scale infrastructure to test and trial the new energy systems to be developed in a standardized laboratory environment as well as under real conditions on a research vessel. Through ongoing collaborations with industrial and touristic ship operators, energy system data is obtained from practical use in different vessel types. Based on all data sources, a comprehensive energy system simulation model is developed to assess various energy converter and distribution technologies. The overall target is to optimize performance, efficiency and reliability for different use-cases, especially when integrating renewable energy sources. Through these Master´s theses, we seek to develop an energy system or subsystem model to investigate and optimise the energy distribution onboard of ships. One or more of the following key questions may be addressed within the scope of a one Master’s thesis:
Analysis and simplification of load profile data of complex marine energy systems or subsystems for the optimal design of renewable energy integration and new types of converters.
Integration of fuel cells and electrical/heat storages for low-emission operation
Optimisation algorithms for the steady-state or dynamic design of marine energy systems based on novel converters and storage systems
Utilisation of future fuels in new and existing ship energy systems
The exact scope of a thesis can be defined based on the interests and skill-set of the candidate. We also welcome own proposals by students, should their interest lie outside the scope of the described questions.
Qualifications sought:
Compensation:
Students will be compensated up to TVöD 5 scale for 15 hours/week, following an initial review of the project plan