Quadrature-Phase-Locked-Loop-Based Back-Electromotive Force Observer for Sensorless Brushless DC Motor Drive Control in Solar-Powered Electric Vehicles
Source abstract
Abstract
This work presents a sensorless brushless DC motor (BLDCM) drive control, optimized for solar photovoltaic (PV)- and battery-fed light electric vehicles (LEVs). A back-electromotive force (EMF) observer integrated with an enhanced quadrature-phase-locked-loop (QPLL) structure is proposed for accurate rotor position estimation, addressing limitations of existing control methods at low speeds and under dynamic conditions. The study replaces the conventional arc-tangent technique with a QPLL-based approach, eliminating low-pass filters to enhance system adaptability and reduce delays. The experimental results demonstrate a significant reduction in commutation error, with a nearly flat value at 0 degrees during steady-state and less than 8 degrees under dynamic conditions. Furthermore, the performance of a modified single-ended primary-inductor converter (SEPIC) for maximum power point tracking (MPPT) in solar-powered LEVs is verified, minimizing current ripple and ensuring smooth motor operation. The system also incorporates a regenerative braking mechanism, extending the vehicle’s range by efficiently recovering kinetic energy through the battery with 30.60% efficiency. The improved performance of the proposed method and system over conventional approaches contributes to the advancement of efficient and sustainable solar-powered BLDC motor-based EV technologies.
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Research context
OpenAlex topics: Sensorless Control of Electric Motors · Electric Motor Design and Analysis · Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Technologies
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
Affiliations
Department of Electrical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi 110016, India
Department of Automation, Electrical and Electronic Engineering and Industrial Informatics, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingenieros Industriales, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28006 Madrid, Spain
Department of Hydraulic, Energy and Environmental Engineering, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingenieros de Caminos, Canales y Puertos, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
Funding
Universidad Politécnica de Madrid
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