Research on Output Characteristics of the Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Based on Model Reference Adaptive Control

Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) is a complex system which is multi-input and multi-output, nonlinear, and strongly coupled. During variable loading, the output power and voltage show large amplitude fluctuations, slow regulation, and other factors. This paper proposes a method of model reference adaptive control based on Lyapunov stability theory. A dynamic model of PEMFC with multiple inputs and outputs considering the phenomenon of the “double charge layer” is established. An adaptive controller is designed based on characteristic parameters of the model, and adaptive control law is regulated through the use of Lyapunov stability theory to enhance system’s robustness. Simulation results indicate that output characteristics of the PEMFC dynamic model are improved under model reference adaptive control when load current changes abruptly, resulting in a 4.32% reduction in overshoot and a 0.36 second reduction in regulation time, as compared to traditional PID control. The PEMFC dynamic model and model reference adaptive control strategy are verified to be accurate and stable, which is of considerable significance in improving energy conversion efficiency and extending service life of the stack.