Wow, thank you guys for all of the support! My wife thinks I am a nut being so passionately intrigued by U-boats; I just don't know what it is about them that captures the imagination so fervently.
Anyhow, I just posted about the power-train model I am building along with a test control panel. The post is
here
Basically, the powerplant can be run in multiple modes:
- Diesel engine only
- Electric motor only
- Support and buffer mode
- Diesel-electric mode
- Charging mode
The model allows you to manually engage/disengage the clutches. This allows you to be a proper engineering chief if your heart desires (no more simple speed requests!).
Here is a screenshot of the little drive-train panel which is clickable to achieve the aforementioned modes. Any ideas you guys have in terms of art direction, functionality, etc... is welcome!
And yes, if you want to automate the task and just use the engine order telegraph system and pass on the duties to your trusted AI chief, you may do so and focus on whatever other duties your heart desires.