Controller design for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell systems for automotive applications

Continuous developments in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFC) make them a promising technology to achieve zero emissions multiple applications including mobility. Incremental advancements fuel cells materials and manufacture processes now suitable for commercialization. However, the complex operation of cell systems automotive has some open issues yet. This work develops compares three different controllers PEMFC applications. All have cascade control structure, where generator setpoints sends references subsystems with objective maximize operational efficiency. To develop generators, two techniques are evaluated: off-line optimization Model Predictive Control (MPC). With first technique, optimal given by map, obtained off-line, steady state conditions corresponding setpoints. second time profiles that efficiency an incoming horizon continuously computed. The proposed MPC architecture divides fast slow dynamics order reduce computational cost. Two solutions been implemented deal this fast/slow separation. After integration generators controllers, tested compared using dynamic detailed model system INN-BALANCE project running under New European Driving Cycle. • structure PEM application is described. An setpoint techniques. Slow split design burden reduction. Simulations based on tuned experimental data from real system.