Internet-Distributed Hardware-in-the-Loop Simulation Platform for Plug-In Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicles

Abstract

In order to simulate a PHEV’s dynamic characteristics with high fidelity and study the degradation process of a PHEV’s power sources in real-world driving conditions, an Internet-distributed hardware-in-the-loop (ID-HIL) simulation platform for PHEVs is established. It connects several geographically distributed hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) subsystems (including an in-loop vehicle, Cloud server, driving motor, fuel cells, and lithium battery) via the Internet to simulate the powertrain of a plug-in fuel cell hybrid vehicle (PHEV). In the proposed ID-HIL system, the in-loop vehicle without a hybrid powertrain can simulate a PHEV’s dynamic characteristics. Meanwhile, the other in-loop subsystems can work in the same way as if they were on board. Thus, the degradation process of the power sources, such as the fuel cells and lithium battery, can be studied in real-world driving conditions. A 21 km on-road driving test proves the ID-HIL’s feasibility and fidelity.