Target-Loop Based Cascaded Fractional-Order Control for Non-Integer Processes: Application on a PEM Fuel Cell

This paper aims to achieve two objectives. Firstly, it addresses the tracking challenge associated with ramp-type setpoints and disturbances, where conventional methods typically result in steady-state errors. Secondly, it simplifies the design of fractional-order controllers, which often involve intricate computations in existing approaches. The proposed target loop-based controller design effectively manages both step and ramp-type set-points as well as disturbance inputs. The key advantage of the proposed design lies in its ability to be analytically tuned based on specified maximum sensitivity and phase margin criteria. The suggested non-integer order ramp controller tuning variables have clear correlations that make tuning easier. The computational analysis demonstrate enhanced reference-following and disturbance-handling capabilities relative to recently available methods. System stabilization and zero steady-state error are achieved by the designed controller under a rising ramp input.