Physical-based peak pressure controller for hydrogen internal combustion engines

As Europe aims at meeting the climate targets set by the Green Deal, transitioning to sustainable energy in transportation is crucial, since this sector accounts for 43 % of total CO2 emissions in Europe. Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles (H2ICEVs) have emerged as a promising alternative to other powertrains, due to their carbon-free high-efficiency combustion. To achieve high specific power while maintaining lean lambda (avoiding NOx emissions and combustion anomalies), high boost levels are required, leading to high cylinder pressure peaks, with the risk of exceeding the maximum pressure limit. This paper presents a physics-based peak pressure controller aimed at optimizing combustion efficiency while keeping peak firing pressures below the reliability limit, by coupling an open-loop limitation for the centre of combustion with a closed-loop controller. The presented approach has been validated in virtual environment, assessing the capability of the controller to maintain the average maximum pressure at the reliability limit.