Embedded Systems and Design & Development - Feb 20, 2026 | Afternoon | VisionAstraa EV Academy
Understanding Motor Load and Performance
Introduction to Motor Components
- The discussion begins with an overview of essential components such as the main MCB, ignition switch, and key for starting the motor.
- A component is introduced that helps in adjusting the load on the motor from zero to 100%, allowing for a practical demonstration of how load affects performance.
Load Impact on Motor Performance
- The speaker explains how applying different loads (zero, 50%, and 100%) impacts current, voltage, and speed of the motor.
- At 50% load, the speed reaches approximately 61 km/h with a DC current reading of about 23.97 amps; this indicates an increase in current draw as load increases.
Observations at Full Load
- When increasing to a full load (100%), there is a noticeable spike in both current and speed; current can exceed 18 amps under maximum load conditions.
- The speaker emphasizes that while voltage remains stable, significant variations in current are observed as loads change.
Fault Conditions in Electric Vehicles
Types of Fault Conditions
- Discussion shifts to potential fault conditions in electric vehicles (EV), including ignition failure and emergency braking issues.
- An explanation is provided regarding how these faults affect power supply; if ignition fails, acceleration will not function due to loss of supply between pedal input and main power.
Emergency Systems Overview
- The conversation transitions into emergency systems like stop buttons and their importance during critical failures.
Communication Systems within EV Components
Communication Between Control Units
- The roles of VCU (Vehicle Control Unit), ECU (Electronic Control Unit), and MCU (Motor Control Unit) are discussed concerning communication needs for effective vehicle operation.
Wiring for Communication
- A two-wire twisted pair system is mentioned as crucial for communication among various EV components like ECUs and VCUs.
Three-phase Inverter Functionality
Conversion Process Explained
- Explanation on how three-phase currents are derived from a three-phase inverter which converts DC voltage into usable AC for motors.
Clark Transformation Insight
- Introduction to Clark transformation as part of Field-Oriented Control (FOC); it’s used to manage motor control effectively by converting three-phase currents into manageable forms.
Three-Phase Inverter and Control Techniques
Overview of Three-Phase Inverter Operation
- The discussion begins with the operation of a three-phase inverter, where three currents (IU, IV, IW) are taken as inputs.
- These currents undergo a CL transformation to convert them into two-phase parameters (Iα and Iβ), simplifying the analysis.
Transformation Process
- The conversion from two-phase to direct axis (D) and quadrature axis (Q) is explained; these axes represent independent current components in motor control.
- A PI controller is employed to set ID (direct axis current) to zero, optimizing efficiency by minimizing losses.
Control Mechanism
- The IQ value is processed further through PWM generation, converting it back into alpha and beta voltages before being sent to the inverter for motor operation.
- Emphasis on understanding the Field Oriented Control (FOC) method as crucial for effective motor control.
Detailed Explanation of Transformations
- A reiteration of the transformation process: starting from three-phase currents to two-phase using CL transformation, then moving to D and Q axes via Park transformation.
- Clarification that setting ID to zero allows only torque-producing components in the system.
Final Output Generation
- After processing through various transformations including inverse Clark and Park transformations, three-phase voltages (VAB and VC) are generated for driving the BLDC motor.
Battery Management System Setup
Introduction to BMS Technology Kit
- Transitioning from inverter discussion, a Battery Management System (BMS) setup is introduced with connected cells arranged in series.
Cell Configuration Details
- Eight lithium-ion cells are used in series; participants are encouraged to count them for clarity on configuration.
Internal Resistance Testing
- An internal resistance tester is presented as part of the setup; it measures how well each cell performs under load conditions.
Voltage Specifications
- Discussion on nominal voltage reveals that while full charge voltage may be 3.7V, nominal voltage per lithium cell is actually 3.2V.
Total Voltage Calculation
- Participants calculate total output voltage based on eight cells connected in series; expected reading should reflect cumulative nominal voltages.
Battery Voltage Measurement and BMS Technology
Connecting Cells and Measuring Voltage
- The first cell shows a voltage of 3.7V, indicating it is fully charged.
- As the second cell is connected, the voltage increases to 6.6V, then to 9.7V for the third cell.
- The fourth cell measures at 13.5V, while the fifth reaches 16.3V; the sixth cell shows 19.1V.
- The seventh cell's connection results in a total voltage of 25.4V, aligning closely with the DC meter reading of 25.3V.
Smart BMS Technology Overview
- Introduction of smart Battery Management System (BMS) technology that monitors total voltage across cells.
- Active balancer connections allow real-time monitoring of battery pack voltage and current values.
Components Demonstration
- A setup is shown where individual cell voltages can be calculated using specific components.
- Discussion on various components used in real-time applications, including temperature sensors and voltage indicators.
Battery Pack Structure
- Explanation of motor control units (MCUs), Vehicle Control Units (VCUs), and their relevance in electric vehicles like Ola.
- Description of an Ola battery pack structure featuring cylindrical lithium-ion cells interconnected with thin sheets.
Motor Control Unit Insights
- Overview of a motor control unit designed for Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (PMSM), highlighting its three-phase wiring system.
- Discussion on communication links between battery supply and motor controllers via CAN communication protocols.
DCDC Converter and EV Charging Overview
Understanding DCDC Conversion
- The discussion begins with an introduction to a DCDC converter that transforms 36V and 72V inputs into a 12V output, highlighting its function in voltage conversion.
- Participants are prompted to identify the type of conversion occurring, leading to the conclusion that it is a buck converter, which steps down voltage effectively.
Home EV Charging Solutions
- The speaker mentions a specific charger used for home applications, particularly for electric vehicle (EV) charging, noting that it takes longer than public chargers due to AC to DC conversion processes.
- A brief overview of the session's objectives is provided, indicating an intention to explain how components are connected within vehicles.
Vehicle Battery Configuration
- The conversation shifts to a specific EV model (BNM 1200), detailing its dual battery pack setup—one located at the rear and another at the front—emphasizing swappable technology.
Motor Controller and Hub Motor Insights
- An explanation of the motor controller's placement within the vehicle is given, along with details about three-phase power transfer to the hub motor connected directly to the wheel.
- The speaker notes that using a battery pack exceeding 60 volts allows operation of this assembled vehicle model (Ather 450), concluding with hopes that attendees found the session informative.