High-Fidelity Multiphysics FCEV bus study with detailed HVAC, cabin, and Hydrogen Fuel Cell models

Abstract

Hydrogen Fuel Cells are potentially a viable zero emission propulsion technology for heavy commercial vehicles, like buses. This paper presents a detailed proof of concept Dymola model of an FCEV bus, built using the VeSyMA suite of libraries. Particular attention is paid to the use the high-fidelity Hydrogen Library from Dassault Systèmes for the fuel cell. Representative physical ancillary systems, coupled with detailed thermochemical modelling, enables detailed transient effects on fuel cell performance to be captured. A multizonal cabin model with independent zonal thermal properties, combined with a multi-physics HVAC model provide a realistic current drain on the drive battery. Such detail is important in understanding accurately the conditions the Fuel Cell will experience during operation. A model such as this has many real-world applications, such as component design and selection; concept evaluation; Fuel Cell degradation, maintenance, and durability analysis; accurate range estimation and controller development.