POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM USING A FUEL CELL, CONTROLLER FOR THE SAME AND CONTROL METHOD

摘要

A power supply system comprises a fuel cell and a battery, each for supplying electrical power to a load. The system is controlled to use the fuel cell for a first period of time (82) to supply electrical power to the load, wherein the power demand is constant over a first time period (82). The battery is used simultaneously with the fuel cell for a second supply time of electrical power to the load, wherein the power varies (84). In this way, fluctuating output is provided by the battery, and the fuel cell output is maintained as constant as possible to prolong the lifetime. During the second supply time, the power to the load (80) can be provided as a constant contribution from the fuel cell and a variable contribution from the battery.

主权项

1. A controller configured to:
control a supply of electrical power to a load from at least one fuel cell (24) and at least one secondary power supply; during a first supply time period, use the fuel cell for a constant first supply of electrical power to the load; and during a second supply time period, simultaneously use the at least one fuel cell (24) for a constant second supply of electrical power to the load, and use the at least one secondary power supply for an additional second supply of electrical power to the load, wherein the constant second supply of electrical power is lower than the constant first supply of electrical power.