Energy Conversion

Electric machines are a technology of choice in many modern energy conversion applications, including propulsion for hybrid-electric vehicles, wind energy generation, and flywheel energy storage systems. Interest in machines is steadily increasing due in large part to the flexibility of controls offered by modern computers and power electronic devices.

In this course, the tools required for the analysis and design of electromechanical energy conversion are developed. Upon completion of the course, a student’s engineering toolbox should contain 1) an understanding of the basic principles of static and electromechanical energy conversion, 2) methods to control static power converters, 3) knowledge of the use of reference frame theory applied to the analysis of rotating devices, 4) an understanding of the steady-state and dynamic characteristics of induction, permanent magnet synchronous, and wound-rotor synchronous machines and 5) state variable analysis of electromechanical devices and converter supplied electromechanical drive systems.