Modeling and control strategy development for fuel cell hybrid vehicles

Using MATLAB/Simulink, we constructed a comprehensive simulation model for the fuel cell hybrid vehicle (FCHV) power train in parallel with a power control strategy that uses a logic threshold approach implemented with a hybrid control unit (HCU). The simulation implements power flow and power distribution under different vehicle operating modes using the accelerator and decelerator pedal positions deduced from the driving schedule as primary inputs. The HCU control strategy also incorporates regenerative braking and recharging for recovery of battery capacity. Using the D-optimality method for selection of the optimal experiment values, three control threshold variables for the HCU are selected to maximize the hydrogen fuel economy under certain driving cycles. The proposed method provides the optimal configuration of the FCHV model, which has the capability of achieving the requested drive power while also meeting the vehicle driving schedule and recovery needs of the state of charge (SOC) battery, with lower fuel consumption levels.