SOME ASPECTS OF THE DEPAS D4.0H SYSTEM APPLICATION FOR INCREASING THE ENERGY EFFICIENCY OF INLAND NAVIGATION VESSELS

One of the most acute thematic areas in discussions at international forums at various levels are the issues of improving the environmental performance and increasing the energy efficiency of the merchant marine vessels, both in international maritime and inland navigation. This article discusses the results of the practical application of analytical methods for processing the indication data of internal combustion engines of the Danube pusher under operating conditions, as well as some aspects of the application of the results of analytical synchronization of the data obtained to further substantiate the optimal operating modes of such vessels. The results are applicable to determine the possible range of variation in energy efficiency and environmental friendliness. When determining the energy efficiency indices, various forms of pushed caravans, most often operating in the Danube shipping, are taken into account. Further steps have also been taken to substantiate the concept of prioritizing diagnostics and optimizing the operation of engines of existing ships in comparison with the implementation of innovative ships projects. Surely, the introduction of new projects will theoretically lead to a faster achievement of the goals of a number of European projects (for example, GRENDEL - Green and Efficient Danube Fleet, European Green Deal conception, etc.) to achieve zero emissions, but any innovative projects are much more expensive than any modernization and optimization of the movement modes of vessels that are already in the Danube fleet, and which are successfully operating with good economic results. In this context, innovative vessel projects are not attractive to shipowners and other participants in the Danube transport market. The need to attract additional investments, lack of funds, market decline in the context of pandemic restrictions, the actual loss of business positions of small shipowners - all these are factors that make it impossible for the widespread use of innovative developments and solutions for the complete renewal of the Danube fleet by shipowners.