Search Results (103)

A significant application of the proportional–integral (PI) controller in the automotive sector is in electric motors, particularly brushless direct current (BLDC) motors utilized in electric vehicles (EVs). This paper presents a high-performance boost converter regulated by a fractional-order proportional–integral (FoPI) controller to ensure stable output voltage and power delivery to effectively charge the battery under fluctuating input conditions. The FoPI controller parameters, including gains and fractional order, are optimized using an Arithmetic Harris Hawks Optimization (AHHO) algorithm with an integral absolute error (IAE) as the objective function. The primary objective is to enhance the system’s robustness against input voltage fluctuation while charging from renewable sources. Conversely, regenerative braking is crucial for energy recovery during vehicle operation. This study implements a fractional-order PI controller (FOPI) for the smooth and exact regulation of speed and energy recuperation during regenerative braking. The proposed scheme underwent extensive simulations in the Simulink environment using the FOMCON toolbox version 2023b. The results were validated with the traditional Ziegler–Nichols method. The simulation findings demonstrate smooth and precise speed control and effective energy recovery during regenerative braking and a constant voltage output of 375 V, with fewer ripples and rapid transient responses during charging of batteries from variable input supply. Full article

In order to improve mathematical model accuracy of electromechanical actuator (EMA) and solve the problems of low-frequency response and large overshoot for nonlinear systems by using traditional proportional integral derivative (PID) algorithm, a fuzzy single neuron (FSN)-PID algorithm is proposed. Firstly, a complete multi-nonlinear dynamic model of EMA is constructed, which introduces internal friction and current limiter of brushless direct current motors (BLDCMs), dead zone backlash of gear trains, and LuGre friction between output shaft and fin. Secondly, a FSN-PID controller is introduced into the automatic position regulator (APR) of EMA control system, where the gain coefficient K of SN algorithm is adjusted by fuzzy control, and the stability of the controller is proved. In addition, simulations are conducted on the response effect of different fin positions under different algorithms for the analysis of the 6° fin position response; it can be concluded that the rise time with FSN-PID algorithm can be reduced by about 4.561% compared to PID, about 1.954% compared to fuzzy (F)-PID, about 0.875% compared to single neuron (SN)-PID, and about 0.380% compared to back propagation (BP)-PID. For the 4°-2 Hz sine position tracking analysis, it can be concluded that the minimum phase error of FSN-PID algorithm is about 0.4705 ms, which is about 74.44% smaller than PID, about 73.43% smaller than F-PID, about 17.24% smaller than SN-PID, and about 10.81% smaller than BP-PID. Finally, wind tunnel experiments investigate the actual high dynamic flight environment and verify the excellent position tracking ability of FSN-PID algorithm. Full article

To improve commutation accuracy and effectively suppress torque ripple in brushless DC motors (BLDCMs), this paper presents a novel commutation correction strategy integrated into an enhanced direct torque control (DTC) framework. The proposed method estimates the commutation angle error in real time by analyzing the integral difference in phase currents across adjacent 30° conduction intervals, enabling dynamic and accurate commutation correction. This correction mechanism is seamlessly embedded into a modified DTC algorithm that employs a three-level torque hysteresis comparator and introduces a novel zero-voltage vector selection strategy to minimize torque ripple. Compared with conventional DTC approaches employing dual-loop control and standard zero vectors, the proposed method achieves up to a 58% reduction in torque ripple along with improved commutation precision, as demonstrated through both simulation and experimental validation. These results confirm the method’s effectiveness and its potential for application in high-performance BLDCMs drive systems. Full article

Electric vehicle applications frequently use brushless direct-current (BLDC) motors due to their high torque and efficiency. However, coil damage may result from their use at high rotating speeds and extremely high temperatures, requiring preventative maintenance. This study describes the creation of a better online monitoring platform that is coupled with an improved fault detection and protection system for small electric vehicles. Designing a fault detection system with real-time analysis to identify open-circuit problems is part of the process. The results indicate that the reliability and operating efficiency of electric vehicle applications have been greatly enhanced by the development of a potential fault-monitoring and protection solution. Full article

Designing propulsion systems for agricultural drones involves a repetitive process that is both expensive and time-intensive. At the same time, conducting comprehensive experimental tests demands specialized equipment and strict safety protocols. In this work, the design and assessment of the propulsion system (propeller, motor, and battery) for large-sized drones in agricultural applications are conducted using numerical methods. To properly predict and validate the performance of a brushless direct current motor, a three half-bridge inverter circuit, featuring a trapezoidal commutation, is implemented and constructed. First, the propeller is studied using the finite volume method, obtaining a maximum variation of 6.32% for thrust and 10.1% for torque. Additionally, an electromagnetic analysis on a commercial brushless direct current motor (BLDC) using JMAG software from JSOL corporation (JMAG designer 23.2, Cd.Obregón, México) resulted in 4.43% deviation from experimental electrical measurements. The selected propulsion system is implemented in a 30 kg drone, where motor performance is evaluated for two instants of time in a typical agriculture trajectory. The findings demonstrate that numerical methods provide valuable insights in large-sized unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) design, decreasing the experimental tests conducted and accelerating implementation time. Full article

This study details the design and testing of a custom test rig for evaluating the performance of both open and shrouded rotors. The rig includes a two-axis load cell that is directly connected to the rotor to measure the rotor thrust separated from the total thrust when testing shrouded rotors and ensure accurate torque measurements, independent of external structural influences. Moreover, a main load cell is used to measure the total thrust for both configurations (open and shrouded rotor), as it is connected to the entire setup. Rotor RPM is monitored by capturing the voltage frequency from the BLDC motor, controlled using a Pololu Maestro Controller through the electronic speed controller. A shunt resistance is used to calculate the current through the electric Brushless Direct Current (BLDC) motor and by measuring the voltage, the electric power is calculated. By combining both mechanical and electrical power measurements, the BLDC motor’s efficiency is calculated. Automated data collection is conducted using National Instruments DAQ systems, with averaged measurements of thrust, torque, RPM, current, and voltage. Two rotors are tested to obtain performance data for both open and shrouded configurations. Additionally, a computational study is carried out to account for the aerodynamic effects of the rig’s structural elements. Uncertainty analysis is employed to assess the reliability of the experimental results by quantifying the numerical errors associated with both random and systematic errors encountered during the rotor’s performance evaluation. Full article

In hub-motor electric vehicles (HMEVs), performance is adversely affected by the mechanical-electromagnetic coupling effect arising from deformations of the air gap in the Permanent Magnet Brushless Direct Current Motor (PM BLDC), which are exacerbated by varying road conditions. In this paper, a Model Predictive Control (MPC) strategy for HMEVs equipped with air suspension (AS) is introduced to enhance ride comfort. Firstly, an 18-degree of freedom (DOF) full-vehicle model incorporating unbalanced electromagnetic forces (UEMFs) induced by motor eccentricities is developed and experimentally validated. Additionally, a Minimum Model Error Extended Kalman Filter (MME-EKF) observer is designed to estimate unmeasurable state variables and account for errors resulting from sprung mass variations. To further improve vehicle performance, the MPC optimization objective is formulated by considering the suspension damping force and dynamic displacement constraints, solving for the optimal suspension force within a rolling time domain. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed MPC approach significantly improves ride comfort, effectively mitigates coupling effects in hub driving motors, and ensures that suspension dynamic stroke adheres to safety criteria. Comparative analyses indicate that the MPC controller outperforms conventional PID control, achieving substantial reductions of approximately 41.59% in sprung mass vertical acceleration, 14.29% in motor eccentricity, 1.78% in tire dynamic load, 17.65% in roll angular acceleration, and 16.67% in pitch angular acceleration. Full article

In this paper, a 96 V, 2.5 kW, 36-slot, and 32-pole brushless direct-current (BLDC) motor is designed, analyzed, and tested in the laboratory and on the prototype vehicle to provide the required output performance for an electric vehicle (EV) according to the rated operating conditions. Applications for in-wheel electric drivetrains have the potential to deliver high efficiency and high torque. Consequently, in-wheel motor topology is proposed for small EVs, and the sizing equations, including primary, stator, and rotor dimensions, are developed step by step for the preliminary design. Then, a multi-goal function is introduced to obtain optimum motor design. This motor has an outer-rotor-type construction. In addition, a concentrated winding arrangement is used, which ensures low-end winding and thus low copper loss. Then, multiphysics using the coupled electromagnetic–thermal analysis is carried out. Elective analysis using the finite element method, a motor prototype, and experimental studies verifies the design effectively. Full article

This paper focused on the implementation method and results of modifying a Raspberry Pi 4 for real-time control of brushless direct-current motors, with application in a semi-active two-axis ankle prosthesis. CANopen over EtherCAT was implemented directly on the Raspberry Pi to synchronize real-time communication between it and the motor controllers. Kinematic algorithms for setting ankle angles of zero to ten degrees in any combination of sagittal and frontal angles were implemented. To achieve reliable motor communication, where the motors continuously move, the distributed clock synchronization of Linux and Motor driver systems needs to have a finely tuned Proportional-Integral compensation and a consistent sampling period. Data collection involved moving the ankle through 33 unique pre-selected ankle configurations nine times. The system allowed for quick movement (mean settling time 0.192 s), reliable synchronization (standard deviation of 4.51 microseconds for sampling period), and precise movement (mean movement error less than 0.2 deg) for ankle angle changes and also a high update rate (250 microseconds sampling period) with modest CPU load (12.48%). This system aims to allow for the prosthesis to move within a single swing phase, enabling it to efficiently adapt to various speeds and terrains, such as walking on slopes, stairs, or around corners. Full article

Marine life exploration is constrained by factors such as limited scuba diving time, depth restrictions for divers, costly expeditions, safety risks to divers’ health, and minimizing harm to marine ecosystems, where traditional diving often risks disturbing marine life. This paper introduces Nu (named after an ancient Egyptian deity), a 3D-printed Remotely Operated Underwater Vehicle (ROUV) designed in an attempt to address these challenges. Nu employs Long Range (LoRa), a low-power and long-range communication technology, enabling wireless operation via a manual controller. The vehicle features an onboard live-feed camera with a separate communication system that transmits video to an external real-time machine learning (ML) pipeline for fish species classification, reducing human error by taxonomists. It uses Brushless Direct Current (BLDC) motors for long-distance movement and water pump motors for precise navigation, minimizing disturbance, and reducing damage to surrounding species. Nu’s functionality was evaluated in a controlled 2.5-m-deep body of water, focusing on connectivity, maneuverability, and fish identification accuracy. The fish detection algorithm achieved an average precision of 60% in identifying fish presence, while the classification model achieved 97% precision in assigning species labels, with unknown species flagged correctly. The testing of Nu in a controlled environment has met the system design expectations. Full article

The brushless DC (BLDC) motor is crucial in a variety of industrial and consumer applications due to its efficiency and precise control. This study investigates the heat transfer and cooling mechanisms in liquid-cooled BLDC motors in dishwashers, which are fundamental to maintaining optimal operating temperatures. Elevated temperatures can reduce operational efficiency, emphasizing the importance of effective heat dissipation. Liquid cooling proves to be very effective and offers advantages over air cooling by providing even temperature distribution and more accurate temperature control. Integrating liquid cooling systems into dishwasher designs provides a viable solution for managing motor temperatures while preheating dishwashing water. Using existing water infrastructure, these systems dissipate heat generated during motor operation, increasing energy efficiency and reliability, as analyzed using computational fluid dynamics (CFDs). The aim of this study is to optimize thermal management strategies in BLDC motors, particularly in dishwashers, by filling a critical gap in the existing literature. The goal of this comprehensive analysis is to develop resistant and efficient cooling solutions tailored to dishwasher environments, ultimately extending the life of BLDC motors in home appliances while using heat transfer to preheat water for wash cycles. Full article

Nowadays, electric propulsion system implementation in vehicles is popular, and many studies and prototypes have been accomplished in this field. Aircraft are important members of the vehicle family, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are part of this family as well. Some UAVs still have conventional propulsion systems, which are less efficient and are harmful to the environment. In addition, conventional systems are vulnerable to faults in their propulsion system components. To overcome these problems, we designed a multi-phase Brushless Direct Current (BLDC) motor, to achieve fault-tolerant operation. Our designed BLDC motor was implemented in a UAV model that was created on MATLAB Simulink, based on a currently used UAV. Our design and performance analysis are shown for the BLDC motor, both standalone and as implemented in the created UAV model. The electric propulsion system performance is shown, according to the determined flight profile. We observed that the designed electric machine is capable of producing the required torque to create thrust for lifting the UAV. There are some advantages and disadvantages to using the designed electric machine in this class of UAV. This is shown in the related sections. Full article

Electric vehicle (EV) proliferation is accelerating, characterized by the rising quantity of electric automobiles on global roadways. The electric machine is a crucial component of an EV, and the heat generated within the motor requires consideration as it impacts performance and longevity. A prevalent form of machine in EV is the in-wheel motor (IWM), which is notable for its compact size. However, it presents more significant cooling challenges. This research offers a new cooling method to cool the IWM. The system consists of wafters mounted on the housing of the IWM. Testing was conducted to determine the effect of wafters on the thermal properties and performance of IWMs. The machine used in this research is a brushless direct current (BLDC) motor featuring an outer rotor configuration and a peak power output of 1.5 kW. Testing was carried out experimentally and by simulation, and the simulation used Ansys Motor-CAD software. The research results show that applying wafers to IWM reduces the temperature of IWM components by up to 13.1%. IWM with wafters results in a torque increase of 0.14%, a power increase of 0.64%, and an efficiency improvement of 0.6% compared to IWM without wafters. Full article

The use of electric automobiles, or EVs, is essential to environmentally conscious transportation. Battery EVs (BEVs) are predicted to become increasingly accepted for passenger vehicle transportation within the next 10 years. Although enthusiasm for EVs for environmentally friendly transportation is on the rise, there remain significant concerns and unanswered research concerns regarding the possible future of EV power transmission. Numerous motor drive control algorithms struggle to deliver efficient management when ripples in torque minimization and improved dependability control approaches in motors are taken into account. Control techniques involving direct torque control (DTC), field orientation control (FOC), sliding mode control (SMC), intelligent control (IC), and model predictive control (MPC) are implemented in electric motor drive control algorithms to successfully deal with this problem. The present study analyses only sophisticated control strategies for frequently utilized EV motors, such as the brushless direct current (BLDC) motor, and possible solutions to reduce torque fluctuations. This study additionally explores the history of EV motors, the operational method between EM and PEC, and EV motor design techniques and development. The future prospects for EV design include a vital selection of motors and control approaches for lowering torque ripple, as well as additional research possibilities to improve EV functionality. Full article

The growing demand for agricultural output and limited resources encourage precision applications to generate higher-order output by utilizing minimal inputs of seed, fertilizer, land, and water. An electronically operated planter was developed, considering problems like ground-wheel skidding, field vibration, and the lack of ease in field adjustments of ground-wheel-driven seed-metering plates. The seed-metering plate of each unit of the developed planter is individually driven by a brushless direct current (BLDC) motor, and a BLDC motor-based aspirator is attached for pneumatic suction of seeds. The revolutions per minute (RPM) of the seed-metering plate are controlled by a microcontroller as per the received data relating to RPM from the ground wheel and the current RPM of the seed-metering plate. A feedback loop with proportional integral derivative (PID) control is responsible for reducing the error. Additionally, each row unit is attached to a parallelogram-based depth control system that can provide depth between 0 and 100 mm. The suction pressure in each unit is regulated as per seed type using the RPM control knob of an individual BLDC motor-based aspirator. The row-to-row spacing can be changed from 350 mm to any desired spacing. The cotton variety selected for the study was RCH 659, and the crucial parameters like orifice size, vacuum pressure, and forward speed were optimized in the laboratory with the adoption of a central composite rotatable design. An orifice diameter of 2.947 mm with vacuum pressure of 3.961 kPa and forward speed of 4.261 km/h was found optimal. A quality feed index of 93% with a precision index of 8.01% was observed from laboratory tests under optimized conditions. Quality feed index and precision index values of 88.8 and 12.75%, respectively, were obtained from field tests under optimized conditions. Full article