CO2 emissions in heavy goods transport must be significantly reduced in the future. Battery-based solutions struggle with disadvantages in terms of range, weight and charging times, which is particularly relevant for long-distance transport. This is where the electrification of lorries using fuel cell systems comes in.
In the recently launched research project MUltiSystemControL- MUSCL, ZBT, together with the Institut für Regelungstechnik (Institute of Automatic Control) at RWTH Aachen University and the automotive supplier Mahle, is developing a model-based operating strategy for fuel cell lorries in heavy goods transport.
The project aims to develop and experimentally test an efficient and innovative operating strategy for fuel cell lorries in long-distance transport. The strategy should both minimise the energy requirement and maximise the service life of the fuel cells in order to create a sustainable and reliable alternative to diesel engine drives.
In the first phase, a zero version of all sub-models of the simulation is created. This includes the fuel cell, the fuel cell system, the overall system and the control strategy.
In phase 2, the simulation is then adapted to the Mahle fuel cell system in order to create a digital twin. Extensive measurements are carried out on the real system in order to validate the simulation.
In the third phase, an operating strategy will be developed and implemented based on the simulation developed, with the aim of maximising the efficiency of fuel cell operation and extending the service life of the fuel cells.
The co-operation of the partners enables a holistic approach, starting with the simulation and adaptation to real systems through to the development and testing of an efficient operating strategy. By bringing together expertise and experience from industry and research, the project aims to help advance the use of fuel cells in heavy goods transport and support the development of more environmentally friendly transport solutions.
Project partners:
MAHLE: Leading international development partner and supplier to the automotive industry, specialising in drive technology and thermal management.
Institute of Automatic Control (IRT) at RWTH Aachen University: Researches model-based predictive controls for complex, non-linear dynamic systems as well as optimal operating strategies for hybrid-electric powertrains.
Project duration and funding:
The project is supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action and has a duration of 36 months.
