Abstract:

The idea of using electric vehicles is easy to state but difficult to implement with their own challenges. Firstly, it needs efficient Battery Management system and easily accessible, fast charging infrastructure. The electric vehicle powertrain needs to operate very efficiently. For that purpose, it needs robust, rugged, and efficient motor along with sophisticated controls. There should be coordinated operation between Batter Management System and Motor controls. Accurate measurement of motor parameters is essential to implement sophisticated controls and know if the motor is manufactured as per intended design. Furthermore, fail-safe operation of EV is essential due to its complexity and controls. Understanding that an electric motor is the heart of the electric vehicle, this thesis revisits the induction motor (IM) and explores its application from a different perspective. Firstly, a unique approach for sizing and design of the motor is presented. Contrary to the existing techniques, the proposed novel methodology starts with the space available to fit the motor. A 1-dimensional simplified vehicle-model is used to predict approximate torque required at various speeds corresponding to a range of D and L (by sweeping through the 2-dimensional D-L space). This is followed by prediction of acceleration and steady torque capability required by the vehicle. Once various ratings are decided, the regular design starts.