Fuel Cell Temperature Control via Driver Propensity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fuel cell temperature control methods fail to account for a driver's propensity, leading to rapid temperature changes that can cause overheating or overcooling, damaging the vehicle system.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method that calculate a control factor using ambient temperature and driver propensity information, applying a compensation value to prevent overheating and overcooling by adjusting the fuel cell temperature through coolant pump RPM, radiator fan control, and coolant temperature valve management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the temperature of the fuel cell is controlled only based on the temperature outside the vehicle, then the control system is simple, but the temperature control precision deteriorates due to driver's propensity causing rapid temperature changes
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary classification of driver propensity into multiple groups before temperature control is needed. This pre-established classification enables the control system to anticipate and prepare for different driving patterns, allowing precise temperature control without adding complex real-time decision-making structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamic control strategies by selecting different temperature control methods based on the driver's propensity group. For example, aggressive drivers may require more frequent cooling interventions while mild drivers need gentler control, making the system adaptable rather than static.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the target temperature is constantly reduced as the outside temperature increases, then the fuel cell temperature is kept stable, but overheating or overcooling occurs when driver's propensity causes rapid temperature changes
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors the actual fuel cell temperature and compares it against the target temperature, then adjusts cooling control factors accordingly. This feedback mechanism prevents both overheating and overcooling by responding to real-time temperature deviations caused by different driving patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes multiple parameters including target temperature, cooling control factors, and temperature change rates based on driver propensity classification. These parameter adjustments allow the system to maintain reliability across different driving scenarios rather than using a fixed temperature control strategy.
3Measurement precision
If the temperature control is adjusted based on driver's propensity, then the temperature control precision is improved, but the device complexity increases due to driver propensity determination and compensation calculations
Solution Approach 1:
Driver propensity is classified into discrete groups in advance, creating a simplified lookup structure for the control system. This preliminary categorization avoids the need for complex real-time analysis of driving behavior, reducing computational complexity while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies compensation values selectively based on the driver's propensity group and heating value change rate. Rather than continuously adjusting all parameters, the system applies targeted compensation only when and where needed, balancing precision with computational efficiency.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Precise temperature control of the fuel cell is achieved, preventing damage to the vehicle system and improving its reliability by actively managing temperature changes based on driver behavior.
Implementation Method 1
a coolant pump RPM control unit that controls a coolant pump RPM
Implementation Method 2
a radiator fan RPM control unit that controls a radiator fan RPM
Implementation Method 3
a coolant temperature control valve opening control unit that controls a coolant temperature control valve opening
Data Source
AI summary
A fuel cell temperature control apparatus includes: a driver propensity determination processor that determines a driver's propensity while a vehicle travels; a temperature control factor decision processor that determines a temperature control factor based on an ambient temperature and the driver's propensity to control the temperature of the fuel cell; and a storage that stores driver propensity determination information determined by the driver propensity determination processor.