High-Fidelity Integrated Simulation Platform for PEMFC–Battery Hybrid Marine Propulsion and Thermal Management

Abstract

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has strengthened regulations on ship emissions, increasing interest in eco-friendly marine propulsion systems. Among these, the polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is a promising alternative for small ships. This study aims to develop a system-level high-fidelity integrated fuel cell–battery hybrid small ship model and evaluate the performance of different power management strategies, focusing on energy efficiency and thermal management. A comprehensive model was developed using Matlab/Simulink and Matlab/Simscape, integrating a PEMFC stack, high-voltage battery, power conversion units, motor, and thermal management system (TMS). Two power management systems (PMSs), rule-based and fuzzy-based, were implemented and analyzed under realistic operational profiles, including trim angle effects. Simulation results showed that the fuzzy-based PMS reduced hydrogen consumption by 8.6%, improved overall energy efficiency by 17.8%, decreased overshoot by 21.6%, and shortened settling time by 121 s compared to the rule-based PMS. TMS energy consumption was also reduced due to precise control of coolant pumps and valves. Qualitatively, the fuzzy-based PMS stabilized battery state of charge (SOC) and mitigated fuel cell overload, demonstrating improved operational stability during dynamic ship operation.