Functional observer for linear parameter-varying systems with application to diagnosis of PEM fuel cell

This paper is a contribution to the problem of functional observers for linear parameter-varying () systems. The goal is twofold. First, we propose an extension of some results of literature on functional observers, established originally for linear systems, to systems. The design of these observers are based on linear interpolation principle according to each parameter. Besides, sufficient conditions for asymptotic convergence are expressed in terms of linear matrix inequalities, easily tractable by convex optimisation techniques. Second, we show how this new result can be used to investigate the problem of diagnosis for proton electrolyte membrane fuel cell. More precisely, we deal with the problem of flooding considered as an important issue for water management inside the fuel cell. Finally, simulation results are given in order to highlight the performances of the proposed approach.