The software can roughly be said to consist of two layers. The bottom layer is a mathematical model for the on-board energy systems. This model describes the components that produce energy, i.e. the engines, and any significant energy consumers. Examples of the latter include propulsion systems (propellers, electric motors, etc.) and electrical systems.
Atop this model we are building a design tool, in which the ship designer can combine various components and analyse the properties of the resulting system. An optimisation algorithm will aid the designer in determining which components, when combined, provide the desired performance with the lowest fuel consumption and emission levels. Like the rest of the project, the software is scheduled for completion in 2014.
