The Institute of Mechatronics at Hamburg University of Technology explores new approaches to shipboard power systems with a focus on island networks. Unlike conventional centralized systems, island networks divide the electrical system into modular units that can operate both independently and in coordination. This structure increases fault tolerance, flexibility, and efficiency, making vessels more resilient and adaptable.

Our research spans several areas. We evaluate compact and reliable power electronic converters tailored to the demanding conditions on board. We also develop control strategies that ensure stable operation of individual islands and the overall system, even in the event of faults or communication loss. Energy management is another key aspect: optimization methods are used to coordinate generation and storage, reduce emissions, and improve efficiency.

Validation takes place in laboratory test environments, hardware-in-the-loop setups, and full-scale demonstrators in collaboration with industry partners. Applications include hybrid-electric propulsion, integration of batteries and fuel cells, and retrofitting of existing ships.

 These systems combine electrical, thermal, and mechanical domains, and their optimization requires methods that consider not only individual components but also the overall system behavior.

Our work addresses several interconnected challenges. For electrical machines, the emphasis lies on improving efficiency, robustness, and dynamic performance under variable operating conditions.  On the system level, optimization techniques integrate these components into complex networks where multiple objectives—such as efficiency, emissions, lifetime, and resilience—must be balanced.

Model-based and data-driven approaches are combined to capture the interactions between domains. Simulation and co-simulation tools link machine models with network dynamics, allowing detailed analysis of transient behavior, load scenarios, and fault conditions. We explicetly expand this up to the individual multiphysics of electrical machines. Optimization strategies include multi-objective formulations, predictive control, and adaptive scheduling to ensure safe and efficient operation.