HydrogenHybrid03.doc
Project Concept: Electronic Controllers
for Hydrogen-Gasoline Hybrid Autos
Sponsor: James Duffy General Description All modern automobiles use electronic engine control units to maintain a stoichiometric mixture of air and gasoline. Utilization of hydrogen fuel as a supplemental fuel in a gasoline engine introduces an opportunity for substantial fuel economy gains and/or additional horsepower, but confuses the electronic engine controller. The purpose of the project is to produce two electrical control units for a gasoline-fueled automobile engine. One unit will control electrical power to a hydrogen generator. The generator will send hydrogen to the car’s gasoline engine and act as a supplemental fuel. The second unit will control sensor voltages that are used by the car’s electronic engine controller to determine the fuel-air ratio of the car and allow efficient introduction of hydrogen. Design Study The design study will determine the technical requirements of the electronic controllers. The design study for the hydrogen generator controller should include: Optimum setting to power the hydrogen generator. A review of existing commercial electronic controllers that would meet the needs of the hydrogen generator project. Consideration of size, orientation, and construction of the controller, considering the automotive environment. The design study for the sensor controller should include: An overview of the existing sensors in the test vehicle. A comparison of methods of controlling sensors to meet the project purpose. Consideration of size, orientation, and construction of the controller, considering the automotive environment. Specific Expectations and Deliverables Work with the sponsor to determine needs. Conduct a thorough study of existing similar products. Conduct a study of required user activities. Prepare a complete, detailed system design. Build and test a prototype system.
Number of Students in Team Two to four in one or two projects.