The objective of the H2-Modus RAAK-MKB project together with Saxion and 20 companies is to design tools, systems, software, methods to facilitate the integration of H2-Fuel cell systems in various applications. Duration of the research is 2 years.

In February 2023, this project started with 6 companies, 2 senior engineers, 3 researchers from HAN, 8 Automotive Engineering students (divided into Powertrain, Business Management, Structural Design and Vehicle Electronics & Control), 2 Electrical Engineering and 5 Mechanical Engineering students.

Applications can be found in:

• Excavators
• Range Extender for EVs
• Cooling generators for containers
• Cleaning systems for sewers
• Drone boats
• Backups for solar generators

Research questions in this project are:

Hardware

• How do I determine the energy and power requirements of my application?
• What sizing of the main components should I choose?
• Which components or subsystems are available where?
• How can generalisation and/or modular construction help?
• Once an initial prototype is realised how do I build the next 10?

Software

• How do I control the different modules?
• What is an appropriate energy management strategy?
• Is there a generic software platform for control?

Safety and permits

• How should I deal with safety?
• Which standards and guidelines apply in my situation?
• How do I market a licensable and insurable product?

Logistics and finance

• How do I organise logistics to make hydrogen effectively available for my product?
• What investments are needed to integrate a fuel cell system into my application.
• What is the expected total cost (TCO) of my hydrogen-powered application and what will be the cost per running hour?

The development plan is as follows:

1. Requirements and wishes
2. Analysis of energy needs & logistics
3. Dimensioning of main components
4. Basic design, PI&D, electrical schematic
5. Safety FMEA – HAZOP
6. Elaboration of design
7. Procurement
8. Build
9. Testing

Source and photography: HAN AEA