FCEV Power Distribution Control for Low-Load Fuel Cell Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Heavy-duty vehicles face limitations in operational range due to battery energy capacity, and existing solutions for managing fuel cell power generation often result in fuel cell shutdown or energy dissipation, which is inefficient and undesirable.
Innovation Solution
A method for controlling the electric power system of a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) that determines an upcoming position for a low load operation mode, adjusts power distribution between the fuel cell and energy storage system, and controls power feed to minimize fuel cell shutdown and energy waste by optimizing power usage based on road topology and consumer demand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the battery state of charge is maintained at a high level to ensure sufficient electric power for auxiliary devices during fuel cell startup, then the power supply reliability is improved, but the fuel cell may be operated in an insufficient temperature environment leading to incomplete startup
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the battery discharge control strategy based on real-time operating conditions. During cold startup, the system transitions from maintaining high state of charge to allowing controlled discharge when fuel cell power exceeds auxiliary device requirements, enabling adaptive response to temperature and power demand variations
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the battery state of charge threshold parameter dynamically. When fuel cell power output exceeds auxiliary device consumption during startup, the battery is permitted to discharge, effectively changing the operating parameter from charge-maintenance mode to charge-depletion mode to accelerate warmup
2Productivity
If the battery is allowed to discharge during fuel cell operation to maintain optimal state of charge, then the fuel cell efficiency is improved, but the voltage fluctuation increases affecting power stability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control mechanism that continuously monitors battery state of charge, fuel cell power output, and auxiliary device consumption. The control unit adjusts battery discharge/charge operations based on real-time feedback to maintain state of charge within optimal ranges while stabilizing voltage fluctuations
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies partial discharge action rather than full discharge, allowing the battery to discharge only to the extent needed to maintain optimal state of charge (30-70% range). This partial action achieves fuel cell efficiency improvement while limiting voltage fluctuation through controlled discharge rates
3Duration of action of stationary object
If the battery state of charge is maintained within a specific range to prevent overcharging and extending battery life, then the battery durability is improved, but the available electric power for auxiliary devices during cold startup is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary charging of the battery before cold startup conditions occur. During normal operation and warm conditions, the battery is charged to optimal levels in advance, so that when cold startup is needed, sufficient power is already stored without requiring excessive state of charge maintenance that would compromise battery lifespan
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a computer implemented method of controlling an electric power system of a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV), the electric power system comprising a fuel cell and an energy storage system electrically connected to each other. An upcoming position at which the electric power system will assume a low load operation mode is determined, and the electric power system is controlled based on a power distribution scheme to arrive at the upcoming position with a state of charge level of the energy storage system below a predetermined threshold level, whereafter the electric power system is controlled to feed electric power at least to the energy consumer when the electric power system assumes the low load operation mode at the upcoming position.