2025 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Abstract

This paper presents a senior undergraduate capstone project from a multidisciplinary team of mechanical and electrical engineering students at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. The project focuses on developing a hybrid power plant system that combines hydrogen fuel cells, photovoltaic solar panels, and lithium-ion batteries specifically designed for maritime applications. Hydrogen is increasingly recognized as a critical alternative fuel for the future of maritime operations, presenting both opportunities and challenges with its implementation. Hydrogen fuel cells offer a promising zero-emission solution for vessel propulsion. However, their effective integration with existing maritime power systems requires consideration for practicality, safety, and regulatory compliance.

At the core of this project is a control algorithm designed to intelligently manage power distribution among the three power sources, ensuring that the hybrid system can meet the real-time load demands of a one-watt electric propulsion system on a small-scale displacement vessel. The control system, consisting of an Arduino Mega, utilizes a dynamic balancing strategy that adjusts the input from a Hydrostik Pro fuel cell, multiple small-scale solar panels, and a 6Ah Li-Po battery based on the vessel’s operational profile and energy requirements. Key performance metrics, including response time and system stability, were rigorously evaluated through simulations and practical testing. The results indicate significant improvements in power source integration and compliance with the demands of the maritime industry, affirming the practicality of this integrated approach. The successful implementation of the hybrid power system on a small, remote-operated vessel propelled by two 6V DC motors is a tangible proof of concept, illustrating its applicability within current regulatory frameworks governing hydrogen fuel cell safety and maritime emissions.

The project has successfully constructed a basic control system that can bring together solar power, Lithium-Ion batteries, and hydrogen fuel cells to drive the intended load of this proof-of-concept vessel. The basic controller also includes a MATLAB Graphical User Interface, which visualizes data in real-time and sheds light on the patterns and behavior of these sources. Finally, research continues to be carried out to set the path for the autonomous implementation of the control system in upcoming phases. This paper highlights intelligent hybrid control systems' growing importance and advancement in modern power production.