Shipboard systems deploy automated protection

The electric power systems in today's US Navy ships supply energy to sophisticated systems for weapons, communications, navigation and operation. To maintain the availability of energy to the connected loads that keep all systems and equipment operational, the electric systems utilize fuses, circuit breakers and protective relays to interrupt the smallest portion of the system under any abnormal condition. New techniques are being developed that make use of advanced monitoring and control, automated failure location and automated intelligent system reconfiguration and restoration. The goal is to increase survivability, eliminate human mistakes, make intelligent reconfiguration decisions more quickly, reduce the manpower required to perform the functions and provide optimal electric power service through the surviving system. With fewer personnel being available on ships in the future, the presence of such a system will become essential for maintaining optimal electric power service.