Innovative Study modules and Training courses

Hydrogen

Foreword

The Auto-Cove 2.0 consortium is developing innovative study modules and training courses focused on alternative fuel vehicle service and sales across three European Qualifications Framework (EQF) levels. All courses developed within the project are funded by the European Union and are completely free for users. Upon completion, they will be published and stored in the Electude e-learning platform.

Course description

Hydrogen may well play an important role as an energy carrier in the future. In industry, housing and mobility, there are already real existing possibilities.  During this course, on the techniques used in hydrogen technology in mobility, a comprehensive introduction to the field of hydrogen technology in mobility is provided for vocational training courses, students and teachers. During this course, various procedures such as safety aspects in hydrogen, transport and storage of hydrogen are also covered. After completing the course, students will have knowledge of the operation of fuel cell and tank systems in vehicles.

The student also has knowledge of the safety regulations when working with liquid and gaseous hydrogen and knows the dangers thereof in combination with working on high voltage in electric vehicles (R101 standard and EMC). The student has used hydrogen from the internal combustion engine (ICE). The student can take the necessary safety measures when working with hydrogen technology in vehicles and can read technical drawings with the corresponding process flows.

This knowledge will enable them to effectively transfer tailored-level in-depth automotive knowledge to their customers, design educational programmes and drive innovation in hydrogen technology.

Module: Hydrogen

In this module, you will learn what hydrogen is and its applications. It is the basis of the entire course. Hydrogen can be widely used as a “fuel” and has many applications.

Hydrogen offers many possibilities in every form of mobility, cars, trucks, trains, ships, planes. Hydrogen is also currently widely used in many production processes in industry. To make steel and glass, which you need a lot in mobility, you need a high temperature that is easy to achieve with hydrogen. It can also be used for heating, hydrogen central heating boilers already exist. But you can also use it for cooking, for example, to replace natural gas. Hydrogen therefore offers many opportunities in the energy transition. Hydrogen is therefore widely applicable, but it has a number of other advantages.

After completing this module, the student will know the possible applications of hydrogen and the operation of a fuel cell.

Module: Hydrogen Refueling 

In this module you will learn how to refuel a hydrogen vehicle (FCEV).

You can see in a video that it keeps switching to a different pressure in the system. Refuelling takes about 3 to 4 minutes and is done at pressures up to 700 bar. There is a communication between filling station and vehicle to record the number of refuelling operations.

Animated Hydrogen Refueling Demonstration

Module: Labs 

In the practical classes, we use a variety of interesting learning tools.
Purpose of this module is gain insight into returns. Understanding what the ratio between supplied electrical power and decreased electrical power is.

The assignment to this image is about recognising the parts. The correct names must be dragged to the correct places.

You will measure the voltage and current when using a solar cell.  The more light falls on the solar cell, the more power is delivered. As a result, more hydrogen is produced and the balloon will be filled sooner.

After the balloon is filled, you measure the voltage and current that is delivered to the electric motor when it is in operation.

Module: Workshop

The hydrogen course is not only theory-based and classroom-based with learning tools, but practice is also widely covered. We discuss the parts in practice and recognise the parts on a vehicle. 

What is the maintenance like and what do you have to watch out for? What can you do to such a vehicle and what do you have to be specially qualified for in connection with safety?

We do this on the occasion of a Hyundai IX 35 FCEV. The side of the vehicle is stickered and shows exactly how this system works. On this vehicle, an output has been made for the voltage generated. This shows that in the future, it is not unthinkable that your vehicle, could become a home energy supply.

Methods of teaching and learning description

Our approach to the design of learning and teaching involves a structured approach that is reflected in different levels of difficulty. Each course is divided into several sub-courses that aim to provide a holistic learning experience:

  • Theory: This teaches the fundamental concepts and principles that are critical to understanding the subject.
  • Quizzes: Interactive exercises and tests designed to test and deepen understanding of the theory.
  • Labs: Practical exercises and experiments that allow learners to apply theoretical knowledge in real or simulated scenarios.
  • Workshop: Interactive sessions where learners can actively participate in discussions, problem-solve and develop creative ideas.
  • Test: Formal assessments to evaluate learners’ knowledge progress and competences.
  • Teacher Resources: Additional materials and support for teachers to effectively organise lessons and support individual learner needs.

This structured approach aims to make learning and teaching interactive, diverse and effective by catering for different learning styles and needs and promoting comprehensive understanding and practical skills.

Innovative Study Modules and Training courses

The Auto-Cove 2.0 consortium is developing innovative study modules and training courses focused on alternative fuel vehicle service and sales across three European Qualifications Framework (EQF) levels:

  • EQF Level 4: Study modules tailored for technical and business students.

  • EQF Level 5: Training courses designed for vehicle engineering students at the tertiary level.

  • EQF Levels 4, 5, and 6: Training courses aimed at vehicle field teachers in vocational colleges and universities of applied sciences. These courses will also serve to upskill current workshop leaders, car mechanics, and professionals in vehicle sales and spare parts across all seven partner countries.

These educational initiatives aim to address the urgent need for expertise in servicing electrified and hydrogen vehicles, ensuring that both new graduates and existing professionals are equipped to navigate the evolving landscape of the automotive industry.

All courses developed within the project are funded by the European Union and are completely free for users. Upon completion, they will be published and stored in the Electude e-learning platform.

Within the AutoCoVE 2.0 framework, Electude plays a pivotal role by providing its state-of-the-art e-learning platform to all partner VET institutions. The platform offers access to nearly 2,000 technical modules, facilitating the development of innovative study materials and training courses focused on modern vehicle technologies, including electric and hydrogen-powered systems.

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.