B2398 - Modeling and Control of Sustainable Powertrains

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course the student knows how to model sustainable powertrain systems, and how power can be controlled, to optimize efficiency and well-to-wheel emissions.

Course contents

The course is structured into four main blocks: modeling fundamentals, component modeling, control systems, and system-level modeling.

1. Fundamentals of Modeling and Control (15 hours)

1.1 Introduction to system modeling, simulation and signal processing

- Simulink environment:

- main blocks used in the course

- overview of Simulink libraries and toolboxes

- simulation settings and numerical aspects

- Modeling approaches:

- white-box, grey-box and black-box modeling

- data-driven models (including neural networks)

- differential equations and transfer function representation

1.2 Control systems:

- system inputs/outputs and control structures

- closed-loop and feedforward control

- sampling and aliasing

- sensors and actuators

- PID control strategies

1.3 Signal processing:

- analog filters (performance and design)

- digital filters (performance and implementation)

2. Vehicle and Component Modeling

2.1 Vehicle Modeling (5 hours)

- Forces acting on the vehicle

- Powertrain-to-wheel transmission

- Longitudinal vehicle dynamics and equilibrium

- Tire modeling

2.2 Internal Combustion Engine Modeling (10 hours)

- Cycle-resolved quantities and modeling strategies

- Cycle-to-cycle variability

- Knock modeling

- Airpath dynamics (filling and emptying models)

- Turbocharger modeling

- Port Fuel Injection (PFI) fuel dynamics

- Emissions modeling (black-box approaches)

- Oxygen storage modeling

- SCR system modeling

2.3 Battery Electric System Modeling (5 hours)

- Battery modeling (cell and pack level)

- Electric motor and inverter modeling

2.4 Fuel Cell System Modeling (3 hours)

- Fuel cell stack modeling

- Balance-of-plant modeling

2.5 Thermal and Cooling Systems (5 hours)

- Hydraulic modeling of cooling systems

- Heat exchanger modeling (ε–NTU method and heat capacity)

- Coolant properties

3. Control of Powertrain Components

3.1 Internal Combustion Engine Control (10 hours)

- Control-oriented modeling and actuation systems

- Torque control in SI and CI engines

- Hydrogen ICE control strategies (series hybrid configuration)

- Knock control

- Air–fuel ratio control

- SCR and DPF control strategies

3.2 Fuel Cell Control (2 hours)

- Control architecture and state management

- Air path control

- Hydrogen supply control

- Thermal management (coolant path)

4. System-Level Modeling (5 hours)

- Powertrain system modeling approaches

- Series hybrid powertrain configuration

- Hydrogen ICE-based systems

- Battery electric vehicle (BEV) modeling

 

Readings/Bibliography

Mandatory material

Lecture slides, notes, and supplementary materials are provided through the University e-learning platform (Moodle). These materials cover all course topics and are sufficient for exam preparation.

Lecture recordings are made available at the end of the course to support revision and self-study.

Reference books

- Robert Bosch, “Gasoline Engine Management”, Wiley

- Robert Bosch, “Diesel Engine Management”, Wiley

- L. Eriksson, L. Nielsen, “Modeling and Control of Engines and Drivelines”, Wiley

Additional references (for specific topics)

- Srivastava, V. et al., “Control-Oriented Modeling and Analysis for Automotive Fuel Cell Systems”, Journal of Dynamic Systems, Measurement and Control, 2004, DOI: 10.1115/1.1648308

- Srivastava, V., Wendler, A., Schaub, J., Walters, M. et al., “Modular Fuel Cell Control Software for Commercial Vehicle Applications,” SAE Technical Paper 2024-26-0169, 2024, doi:10.4271/2024-26-0169

The above references may be used for in-depth study of specific topics such as fuel cell modeling and control.

Teaching methods

The course is delivered through lectures supported by slides, multimedia material, and numerical models.

Teaching integrates:

- theoretical explanations

- experimental data from the literature and laboratory activities

- simulation models developed in the Simulink environment, which are analyzed in detail during the lectures

This approach enables students to connect theoretical concepts with real-world applications and model-based design methodologies.

All teaching materials are made available through the University e-learning platform (Moodle).

In addition to classroom activities, students will visit the Sustainable Mobility Laboratory, where advanced powertrain solutions are developed, including internal combustion engine and fuel cell systems. The laboratory experience provides direct exposure to experimental setups and real engineering applications.

Assessment methods

The assessment consists of a final oral examination.

The exam is based on two questions related to the modeling and control of powertrain systems using Simulink. Topics may include:

- vehicle models

- internal combustion engines

- battery electric powertrains

- fuel cell systems

- hybrid powertrains

As an alternative to one of the two questions, the student may present a project based on the development of a Simulink model. The project topic must be agreed upon with the instructor.

Each part (question or project) is graded up to 15 points, for a total maximum score of 30.

The assessment is designed to evaluate:

- **Knowledge and understanding**: comprehension of modeling approaches and control architectures for sustainable powertrains

- **Applying knowledge**: ability to develop and analyze Simulink models of components and systems

- **Making judgements**: ability to critically evaluate modeling assumptions and control strategies

- **Communication skills**: ability to clearly present models, results, and design choices

During the exam, students are expected to:

- explain model structure and underlying assumptions

- describe system behavior using simulation results

- discuss control strategies and their impact on system performance

The list of topics is provided through the course Moodle platform.

The use of artificial intelligence tools to answer exam questions is not permitted. During the written exam, students may only have a sheet of paper and a pen with them: the presence of any other device or tool, such as a mobile phone, tablet, or smartwatch, will result in the cancellation of the exam and postponement to the next exam session.

Teaching tools

The following teaching materials are provided to support learning:

- lecture slides covering all course topics

- additional material from the scientific literature for in-depth study

- Simulink models used during the lectures, which are shared with the students

All materials are made available through Virtuale, the University e-learning platform (Moodle).

The provided Simulink models allow students to explore, modify, and analyze control-oriented models of powertrain systems, supporting a hands-on understanding of the course content.

Office hours

See the website of Enrico Corti