FPGA implementation of a fuel cell emulator

Fuel cell based systems are usually tested with the aid of high-cost and complex auxiliary devices. A fuel cell emulator is an attractive solution for preliminary downward system test. The emulator replaces the effective power source saving cost, volume and hydrogen reserve still ensuring high-accuracy of test results. The use of a high-performance fuel cell model is essential for a successful conclusion of the overall design process. Although the proposed emulator is suitable for each fuel cell type and power level, a 10W Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell emulator is designed and tested. An FPGA based controller models the fuel cell steady-state and dynamic behaviour, including temperature effects. The controller and the load device are connected by a power interface. The emulator is tested in MATLAB/Simulink environment by the Aldec ACTIVE-HDL co-simulation toolbox. The high accuracy of the proposed emulator is shown by the comparison between experimental and simulation results.