The versatile and scalable HiL system is ideal for validating new functions in Fuel Cell Control Units (FCCUs). Its modular design and numerous enhancement options allow the system to be adapted to various test requirements (e.g. power emulation / powerless simulation). The parameters and controllers used for each simulation can be modified directly in the software – eliminating the need for costly hardware replacement. In addition, firmware updates allow test engineers to easily and quickly adapt NovaCarts Fuel Cell to future requirements, such as new communication interfaces or updated HV architectures.
The HiL simulator uses an open model platform with cycle times of a few microseconds and high I/O dynamics. This enables the development of new FCCU algorithms as well as the use of real parts, dummy loads and rest bus simulation. In addition to the SAE standard J2799 for communication between vehicle and hydrogen filling station, resistance simulations can also be carried out to simulate temperature sensors with negative or positive temperature coefficients (NTC or PTC). The system behavior is supported by simulation models for fuel cells, thus enabling a closed-loop test setup.
Testing fuel cell stacks and traction batteries
In combination with the “NovaCarts Battery” HiL system, it is also possible to simulate functions of the connected battery such as State-of-Charge (SoC), and State-of-Health (SoH) controls, as well as cell balancing mechanisms. Further advantages of NovaCarts Fuel Cell include short and stable connections to the control unit as well as a fault simulation applied directly to the output, which ensures a high signal quality. The two test systems NovaCarts Fuel Cell and NovaCarts Battery combined can be used to test the complete fuel cell stack and the traction battery.
“With this new high-performance platform, we are specifically supporting the development of alternative and electrified drives,” emphasizes Martin Bayer, Head of Testing Solutions at MicroNova. “We attach great importance to a cost-effective and time-efficient application for test service providers and test departments in automotive development. For example, NovaCarts Fuel Cell HiL systems and NovaCarts components can be fast and easily configured thanks to the use of the same tool chain.”
