Collaboration with University of Twente on unique hardware-in-the-loop technology for the maritime sector

The collaboration was initiated through the master’s thesis of Petar Vuckovic, a student at the University of Twente, who is conducting his research at Alewijnse. Petar is contributing to the development of an innovative Typhoon HIL solution for electrical systems, enabling Energy Management System (EMS) algorithms to be validated in real time—faster, safer, and more efficiently.

“Alewijnse is pioneering the application of Hardware-in-the-Loop technology in the maritime sector,” says Zoran Malbasic, Senior R&D Systems Engineer at Alewijnse. Zoran has a strong passion for innovation and a natural talent for mentoring young professionals. His R&D team includes graduates from TU Delft and has recently been expanded with students from the Power Electronics group of the University of Twente, led by Prof. Dr. Thiago Batista Soeiro, starting a new cooperation.

“We complement each other perfectly,” says Zoran about the new collaboration. “While the University of Twente excels in research on power electronics, electromagnetic interference (EMI), electrical machines and battery storage systems, Alewijnse brings in-depth expertise in the practical implementation and system integration of maritime energy systems. This combination allows new ideas to be tested and further developed more quickly.

“Because both organisations use Typhoon HIL, we can also exchange knowledge and experience, and strengthen each other in modelling electrical systems,” says Zoran. “Hardware-in-the-Loop enables us to validate energy management strategies and electrical systems before implementation onboard vessels, helping us reduce development risks and accelerate innovation in maritime electrification.” 

Shift towards electrification 

The maritime sector is undergoing a strong shift towards electrification. Increasingly, shipowners and shipyards are either opting for hybrid vessels that use batteries, fuel cells and biofuel cells, or a combination of different fuels all driven by stricter climate requirements from the IMO, EU, national governments and classification societies.

“To remain relevant, we must continue to invest in technologies such as power conversion and DC grid solutions,” says Zoran. “Collaboration with universities helps us to develop targeted new insights and attract talent.”

Combining science, engineering and design

By combining science, engineering and design, Zoran’s team has already developed various energy conversion applications that can be widely applied in both the maritime and industry sectors. One recent innovation is an advanced Energy Management System (EMS), which optimises energy flows onboard and ensures that underlying systems operate as efficiently as possible.

Petar’s research marks a new phase in the development of this EMS. He is focussing on system integration and the stability of the power management systems (PMS) in a DC environment; a crucial component that monitors and regulates the voltage of all electrical systems.

Working on a better future

“I am getting a unique opportunity at Alewijnse,” says Petar. “For my Master’s thesis, I was also able to do an internship at Alewijnse on solid-state circuit breakers and the protection of DC grids. In January, I started my Master’s thesis on power management in DC systems.

“It is rewarding to work on sustainable technologies for the maritime sector, as they contribute to a better future. For me, Alewijnse is an ideal company because of its extensive technological expertise and its active focus on developing new teams.

“I hope to find a job in the energy sector in the future and continue to develop myself. Although I have no family in the Netherlands, I am from Montenegro, Alewijnse feels like home to me. I feel involved and part of a close-knit and warm team. My colleagues are also my friends and it would be great if my future lies here.”