Thesis: Model-Predictive Control of a Fuel Cell System Powertrain for Aviation

• Review of the existing prototype implementation in MATLAB/Simulink and CasADi
• Implementation on embedded hardware
• Setup, execution and analysis of HiL tests
• Adaption to real-world challenges
• Optional: Augmentation to coupled HT/LT cooling system control
• Optional: Design of potentially necessary state estimators

Background information

Maximizing the performance of the fuel cell system is of paramount importance in its application as an aviation propulsion system. Power density and energy efficiency directly affect the achievable range. Nevertheless, degradation needs to be prevented during operation. Model predictive control (MPC) enables predictive, optimal control while explicitly considering state and control constraints.
Optimal cooling of the fuel cell stack is critical to the efficiency and performance of the entire propulsion system. Optimal multi-input, multi-output control of the high-temperature (HT) cooling circuit provides an ideal entry point for implementing an MPC. Therefore, the objective is to design, implement and evaluate an MPC for this subsystem, to start with. The posted thesis builds on an on-going (as of Mar. 2024) master’s thesis. The existing, prototype implementation of an MPC for HT cooling control shall be ported to embedded hardware. The objective is to perform the proof of concept by means of a Hardware-in-the-Loop (HiL) simulation. The MPC implementation shall be adapted to real-world challenges. Optionally, the MPC approach shall be augmented to address the control problem of a coupled high-temperature/low-temperature (HT/LT) cooling system.

• You are currently studying cybernetics, computer science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or aerospace engineering.
• Completed bachelor's degree or intermediate diploma in cybernetics, computer science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or aerospace engineering.
• In-depth knowledge in model-based (multi-variable) control/optimization
• Good programming skills in MATLAB/Simulink as well as C/C++
• Ideally practical experience in SW development for embedded HW

Buckle up and get started with us. We look forward to receiving your application!