Embedded System Software Development for Zero-Emission Power Box

About the Client

German green tech startup developing a "hybrid" energy storage device that consists of a combination of a Li-Ion battery and an H2 fuel cell.

Objective

To assist in the development of a draft version of the device for testing primary output and obtaining further investments, to develop and customize software for controllers on the draft device.

Solution

The product of the customer is an add-on fuel cell system - mobile energy storage with heating and recharging function based on hydrogen. The system is mainly sold via the automotive aftermarket and is also suitable for high-price niche markets such as caravans and ships, but also for combined heat and power in the heating market.

An Altabel specialist was involved from the very beginning, contributing to the development from scratch. He supported the client's in-house team with embedded development and was responsible for:

• Implementing a state machine-based control system;
• Developing a control strategy;
• Managing communication with sensors and actuators;
• Configuring fieldbuses (CAN);
• Displaying system status on the GUI;
• Logging system data;
• Commissioning software on the prototype control unit (cRio with LabVIEW from National Instruments);
• Assisting in test bench trials to determine optimal system operating points;
• Familiarizing with existing test bench software and hardware;
• Controlling pumps, valves, and motors in collaboration with the product development team.

Result

The first prototype of the device was successfully developed and transferred to the initial testing stage; the process of conceptualizing the B-pattern and taking measurements on the test bench was initiated.