A fuzzy-predictive current control with real-time hardware for PEM fuel cell systems

Area of Science:

• Renewable Energy Systems
• Power Electronics
• Control Systems

Background:

• Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) require efficient maximum power point tracking (MPPT) for optimal energy generation.
• Conventional MPPT methods like Perturb and Observe (P&O) and Incremental Conductance (IC) face challenges in tracking speed and precision, especially under varying environmental conditions.
• Three-level boost converters (TLBCs) are utilized in PEMFC systems but require effective voltage balancing strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate an intelligent Fuzzy Logic Predictive Current Control (FC-PCC) algorithm for MPPT in PEMFC systems.
• To improve the tracking speed, precision, and voltage balancing capabilities of MPPT controllers for TLBCs.
• To assess the performance of the proposed FC-PCC algorithm against traditional MPPT techniques under dynamic conditions.

Main Methods:

• Integration of a fuzzy logic controller with a predictive current control strategy for MPPT.
• Utilization of PEMFC data to determine the maximum power point (MPP) and reference current.
• Implementation and testing using a hardware-in-the-loop system with a PLECS RT Box 1 real-time simulator.

Main Results:

• The FC-PCC algorithm demonstrated rapid tracking of the maximum power point (MPP).
• Precise balancing of capacitor voltage within the three-level boost converter was achieved.
• The proposed method outperformed P&O and IC methods, showing a 15% reduction in tracking duration and a 5% deviation from MPP, with superior stability under environmental variations.

Conclusions:

• The FC-PCC algorithm offers a computationally efficient and effective solution for MPPT in PEMFC systems.
• The intelligent control strategy significantly enhances tracking performance and voltage stability compared to conventional methods.
• This approach provides a robust and reliable MPPT technique suitable for diverse PEMFC applications and operating conditions.