journal article·2025-10-14Open access

An Open-Source Software Framework for Direct Field-Oriented Control of a BLDC with Only One Sensor for ARM

Radu Bogdan Sabau, Radu Etz

Applied Sciences· Volume 15· Issue 20

Abstract

This paper introduces an open-source software framework for implementing Field-Oriented Control (FOC) on a Brushless DC Motor (BLDC) across its entire speed range. The control strategy employs a Direct FOC method with a single Hall sensor combined with Space Vector Pulse Width Modulation (SVPWM) and complementary sensorless techniques. The BLDC motor and supporting circuits are modeled and validated through both simulation and hardware implementation. A modular software architecture enables deployment via distinct system components, promoting hardware abstraction and reducing platform-specific dependencies. The entire setup is conceptualized and executed in MATLAB/Simulink R2024b and the framework supports remote experimentation through a web-based interface, requiring only a single MATLAB license. This scalable solution is designed for academic researchers and industry practitioners alike, offering an accessible low-cost platform for motor control development, validation, and early-stage prototyping.
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Research context

OpenAlex topics: Sensorless Control of Electric Motors · Iterative Learning Control Systems · Advanced Control Systems Optimization

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Affiliations

Applied Electronics Department, Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, 400114 Cluj-Napoca, Romania

European University of Technology, European Union

Funding

Technical University of Cluj-Napoca

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