The TT-Sense®, SPU 3, and IVY: An Integrated Solution for Monitoring the True Performance of Wind-Assisted Propulsion Systems ■
Wind-Assisted Propulsion Systems (WAPS) have shown fuel savings ranging from 4.5% to 9% when retrofitted to existing vessels, and up to 25% for newly built ships designed specifically for wind-assist integration. As energy-harvesting technologies, WAPS harness natural wind forces to generate forward thrust, thereby reducing the load on the main engine.
The Challenge: Accurately Measuring WAPS Contribution
The key question for shipowners and operators is: How much of the vessel’s propulsion is being provided by the wind-assist system? This is where VAF offers a comprehensive WAPS Performance Monitoring solution, combining:
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TT-Sense®, which provides real-time measurements of axial thrust, torque, and shaft power;
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the SPU 3 (Signal Processing Unit) for reliable onboard data collection and processing;
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and IVY, VAF’s performance monitoring platform that visualizes and analyzes propulsion data.
The Unique Value of Measuring Thrust
Unlike torque or power measurements alone, measuring axial thrust provides a direct indication of the impact of wind-assist systems. When WAPS generates forward thrust, it effectively reduces the amount of thrust that needs to be produced by the propeller. TT-Sense® captures this moment with precision, allowing operators to:
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Detect the exact point at which the propeller transitions from being driven by the main engine to being dragged—indicating that wind power is actively propelling the ship.
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Quantify the real fuel savings achieved through WAPS.
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Determine the optimal point to throttle back the main engine to avoid unnecessary fuel consumption.
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Feed high-resolution data into automated control systems or performance dashboards via IVY.
This is what sets TT-Sense® apart: torque and power may decrease, but only thrust measurement can confirm that this is due to added wind propulsion rather than other factors like changes in resistance or trim.
With the integrated solution of TT-Sense®, SPU 3, and IVY, VAF goes beyond standalone data collection. It provides a strategic decision-making tool that enables operators to unlock the full efficiency potential of wind-assisted propulsion. In doing so, WAPS becomes not only visible—but fully manageable.
IN-DEPTH WHITEPAPER
The Measurement Challenge: Discover how to unlock the full potential of hybrid propulsion. Want to get the most out of your wind-assisted propulsion system? Our whitepaper reveals how to overcome the measurement challenge and maximize efficiency with real-time data.
LIVE DEMO SESSION
Curious how to unlock real fuel savings from your wind-assisted propulsion system? Discover how VAF’s TT-Sense® transforms complex shaft dynamics into clear, actionable insights. Book a free demo and see how real-time torque data can drive smarter, more efficient voyages.
Frequently Asked
Questions■
As wind-assisted propulsion gains traction in the maritime industry, so does the need for accurate performance measurement. Shipowners and operators are asking important questions about how to quantify the real benefits of hybrid propulsion systems—and how to make data-driven decisions that lead to fuel savings, compliance, and operational efficiency. In this Q&A, we address the most frequently asked questions about VAF’s TT-Sense® system and its role in unlocking the full potential of wind propulsion.
Why is it difficult to measure the performance of Wind-Assisted Propulsion Systems (WAPS)?
WAPS performance is influenced by many dynamic variables, such as wind speed, vessel load, and sea state. Traditional monitoring systems cannot distinguish between thrust generated by the engine and that provided by wind, making it hard to know when WAPS are truly contributing and to what extent. This is where precision shaft measurement becomes essential.
How does the TT-Sense® system solve the measurement challenge?
TT-Sense® provides continuous, real-time data on shaft torque, power, and axial thrust. It reveals whether the propeller is being driven by the engine or rotated by wind-induced thrust—allowing operators to optimize engine load, reduce fuel consumption, and validate the effectiveness of WAPS.
What kind of fuel savings can be achieved using WAPS and TT-Sense®?
Early adopters of WAPS report fuel savings of 4.5% to 9% on existing vessels and up to 25% on purpose-built ships. TT-Sense® enhances these results by enabling precise engine adjustments and fuel optimization based on real-time propulsion data.
Is TT-Sense® difficult to install or maintain?
No. The system uses non-contact optical sensors and wireless data transmission, requiring no recalibration or mechanical maintenance. It can be installed without disassembling the shaft, making it ideal for both newbuilds and retrofits.
Can TT-Sense® integrate with our current monitoring systems?
Yes. TT-Sense® is compatible with systems such as VAF’s PEM4 and IVY®, and can be connected to third-party platforms via Modbus, Ethernet, or 4–20 mA outputs—making it easy to implement into existing fleet monitoring or performance management setups.
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Ensure accurate reporting and meet compliance standards with our advanced data solutions. We have what you need.
Erik van Ballegooijen | R&D Director
