Simple Control System for a Switcher Locomotive Hybrid Fuel Cell Power System

Fuel cells are currently being considered as power sources for vehicles to reduce the need for fossil fuels and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This paper investigates the use of fuel cells in switcher locomotive applications. To meet the dynamic needs of switcher locomotives, a hybrid system is required that consists of power sources, including ultracapacitors and batteries along with the fuel cell. A simple control algorithm is developed that supplies the demanded power and maintains the proper charge on the battery and ultracapacitor.