Modelling and Optimisation of Fuel Cell Systems

2017/2018

Prerequisite/Recommended prerequisite for participation in the module

The module is based on knowledge achieved when studying the 1st semester on the Master of Science in Energy Engineering on one of the Thermal Energy Engineering specialisations or similar.

Content, progress and pedagogy of the module

Learning objectives

Knowledge

  • Have knowledge about the design, modelling and optimisation of energy systems used in various energy production applications involving fuel cell technology
  • Have knowledge about and comprehension of the detailed operation, functionality and interaction between the various components used in fuel cell- and hydrogen production systems
  • Have knowledge needed to construct and operate fuel cell based technologies in the laboratory and in real applications

Skills

  • Be able to have analytical skills in system integration with respect to system efficiency and control aspects of fuel cell energy systems
  • Be able to judge the usefulness of the used different scientific methods for analysis and modelling of fuel cell and hydrogen systems
  • Be able to verify the analytical and numerical approaches by means of laboratory experiments
  • Be able to evaluate the optimisation procedures used for fuel cell and hydrogen systems

Competences

  • Be able to control the working and development process within the project theme, and be able to develop new solutions within fuel cell and hydrogen systems
  • Be able to independently define and analyse scientific problems in the area of fuel cells and hydrogen systems

Type of instruction

Problem based project oriented project work in groups. The semester focuses on modelling and optimisation of a physical fuel cell or hydrogen based system. The semester project serves to give the students an advanced comprehension of systems based upon fuel cells and hydrogen technology. The fundamental competence within thermodynamics and control engineering within these systems are established. The students must develop a non-linear dynamical model of a system – for instance using block diagrams as in Simulink. Simultaneously, a data acquisition and control system is developed in for instance the Labview real time system through which basic analogical data acquisition and control is interconnected.

Extent and expected workload

Since it is a 15 ECTS project module, the work load is expected to be 450 hours for the student

Exam

Prerequisite for enrollment for the exam

  • It is a pre-condition for students who have not studied the Aalborg PBL Model at Aalborg University that they have passed the course in Project Based Learning and Project Management prior to the project examination.

Exams

Name of examModelling and Optimisation of Fuel Cell Systems
Type of exam
Combined written and oral examination, Project Exam
ECTS15
Permitted aids
All written and all electronic aids
Assessment7-point grading scale
Type of gradingExternal examination
Criteria of assessmentAs stated in the Joint Programme Regulations.
http:/​/​www.engineering.aau.dk/​uddannelse/​studieadministration/​

Additional information

Project on 2nd semester Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Technology.

Facts about the module

Danish titleModellering og optimering af brændselscellesystemer
Module codeEN-M2-2
Module typeProject
Duration1 semester
SemesterSpring
ECTS15
Empty-place SchemeYes
Location of the lectureCampus Aalborg
Responsible for the module
Time allocation for external examinersB

Organisation

Study BoardStudy Board of Energy
DepartmentDepartment of Energy Technology
FacultyFaculty of Engineering and Science