Integration of multiple sources for fuel cell hybrid electric vehicles using single inductor multi-input converter.

Fuel Cell Hybrid Electric Vehicles (FCHEV) use batteries and Photo Voltaic (PV) arrays to overcome Fuel Cell (FC) limitations like slow reaction times and low power densities. In a traditional power conversion system, three converters link FC, PV array, and battery to the output load. Despite using the FC, PV array, and battery, it has three inductors and several switches. Each switch also endures high voltage stress, possibly lowering power density and efficiency. This paper proposes a single-inductor multi-input converter (SI-MIC) that achieves 550 V as output where the input is variable. The fuzzy logic controller enables the integration of multiple power sources by selectively turning the ON and OFF switches in various operating modes. Fewer active switches during the powering process make it possible to employ semiconductors with a lower voltage. Thus, the converter generates high power with low conduction and switching losses. The state space model verifies the validity and stability of the converter under various operating modes. • Battery and PV array are integrated with the fuel cell using the single inductor multi-input converter (SI-MIC). • Fuzzy logic controller is used for switching the semiconductor devices for operating in various modes. • Battery can be charged and discharged in standby and normal operating modes. • Even if the input voltage fluctuates, the output voltage is always maintained at 550 V. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]