A Multi-Objective Design for Pebb-Based Power Corridors in Shipboard Applications

A modern shipboard power distribution system can be constructed using Power Electronics Building Blocks (PEBBs) as the basic module for control and conversion of power; the rating of individual PEBBs is a key component in the design of such a power system. This work presents an optimization framework for determining the optimal number and power rating of Power Electronics Building Blocks (PEBBs) based on the load distribution within a ship. A Mixed-Integer Linear Programming (MILP) formulation is exploited to optimize PEBB configurations, balancing design trade-offs and power levels. To accommodate various load demands and maximize performance, the optimization considers the need for PEBBs of different ratings, rather than a single uniform size, ensuring a tailored and efficient power distribution solution. The optimization also enables PEBBs to be grouped into clusters, which can be connected in parallel and/or in series to achieve desired current and voltage levels. The algorithm is implemented using the Matlab and General Algebraic Modeling System (GAMS) environments, with CPLEX as the solver. A multi-objective cost function is defined to minimize power rating and total volume while maximizing PEBB efficiency. Several examples are tested to validate the proposed algorithm and demonstrate its effectiveness in optimizing PEBB configurations.