DOI: https://doi.org/10.15368/theses.2020.34
Available at: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/theses/2159
Date of Award
6-2020
Degree Name
MS in Industrial Engineering
Department/Program
Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering
College
College of Engineering
Advisor
Jianbiao Pan
Advisor Department
Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering
Advisor College
College of Engineering
Abstract
The use of brushless motors has increased in recent years due to superior performance characteristics compared with alternatives. The operation of a brushless motor is dependent upon a separate controller which is often in the form of a printed circuit board. As such, the size and performance capability of the controller can restrict the performance of the overall motor control system so advancements of these controllers further the potential use of BLDC motors. This project outlines the design of a PCB based, sensorless motor controller for operation of a three-phase BLDC motor powered by a 24 V, high current external supply. Components used were selected to withstand an ambient temperature environment of 125 degrees C.
The design for this PCB based motor control system was completed but fabrication and testing of the system was prevented by COVID-19 related restrictions that prohibited the use of necessary facilities and equipment. The detailed design including component selection, board layout, and software development is included in addition to a plan for fabrication and fundamental functional testing. Although no results are available for analysis to bring about any conclusions, a variety of design strategies and corresponding learnings hold the potential to be a source of valuable reference to the further study and development of future designs.