Iterative Nonlinear Fuzzy Modeling of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Electric vehicles (EVs), in their pure and hybrid variants, have become the main alternative to ensure the decarbonization of the current vehicle fleet. Due to its excellent performance, EV technology is closely linked to lithium-ion battery (LIB) technology. A LIB is a complex dynamic system with extraordinary nonlinear behavior defined by electrical, thermal and electrochemical dynamics. To ensure the proper management of a LIB in such demanding applications as EVs, it is crucial to have an accurate mathematical model that can adequately predict its dynamic behavior. Furthermore, this model must be able to iteratively adapt its parameters to accommodate system disturbances during its operation as well as performance loss in terms of efficiency and nominal capacity during its life cycle. To this end, a methodology that employs the extended Kalman filter to iteratively improve a fuzzy model applied to a real LIB is presented in this paper. This algorithm allows to improve the classical Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy model (TSFM) with each new set of data obtained, adapting the model to the variations of the battery characteristics throughout its operating cycle. Data for modeling and subsequent validation were collected during experimental tests on a real LIB under EVs driving cycle conditions according to the “worldwide harmonised light vehicle test procedure” (WLTP) standard. The TSFM results allow the creation of an accurate nonlinear dynamic model of the LIB, even under fluctuating operating conditions, demonstrating its suitability for modeling and design of model-based control systems for LIBs used in EVs applications.