Self-Regulating Control of Parasitic Electric Loads in Fuel Cell Power Systems

Innovators at NASA\'s Johnson Space Center (JSC) have developed a method for efficiently controlling parasitic power in fuel cell systems. \"Parasitic power\"" refers to power required for internal system maintenance rather than for the system\\\'s primary purpose of net power output. Originally designed for spacecraft this novel method employs a single self-regulating control signal that does away with overly complex control strategies and external power controllers such as electronic power control units sensors and thermostatic controllers. In situations where efficiency and reliability are crucial this innovative method simplifies and reduces operating costs for fuel cell power systems. Applications: 1) Cars buses and material handling vehicles (such as forklifts) that run on fuel cells 2) Distributed energy storage systems for Smart Grid applications 3) Next generation renewable energy applications 4) Telecommunications back-up systems 5) Deep-sea oil drilling operations 6) Uninterruptible power supplies 7) Fuel cell critical power systems where reliability and efficiency are primary concerns (such as military vehicles aircraft and undersea vehicles)"