1st course in the Sensors for a Carbon Free World Specialization

Instructors: Jay Mendelson, MSME, Lecturer​ 

You will learn about how electric vehicles work differently from gasoline or diesel fuel powered vehicles and the major types of electric vehicles. We then explain the  unique components of full electric and hybrid electric vehicles, and how in-vehicle and outside battery charging systems work. We reference all the sensors that are used for in-vehicle and outside unique components. Then we do a deep dive into how each of these sensors work.

Learning Outcomes

  • Understand the subtle differences in charging and motion methodology across numerous electric vehicle systems.
  • Understand complex electrical schematics and core electronic functions for systems in electric vehicles.
  • Specify the correct sensor for an electric vehicle application.

Syllabus

Duration: 16 hours

In this module students will learn about the major categories of electric vehicles that have been developed so far. Understand the basic architecture and features of the different types of electric vehicles. Understand the function of the major electro-mechanical systems in an electric vehicle. Explain how the major systems improve the energy efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint of traditional gasoline engine cars.

Duration: 22 hours

In this module students will learn about the major electrical components in electrical vehicles. Explain in detail how motors, transmissions, and traction inverters work in electric vehicles. Calculate power, torque, speed, acceleration, power factor, voltage and current in synchronous motors. Specify switching elements and DC-AC conversion methods in traction inverters. 

Duration: 28 hours

In this module, students will learn about the battery chargers and modules and how high voltage and current is measured in these components. Specify voltage and current sensing elements in battery chargers and traction inverters. Design voltage and current sensing systems for battery chargers and traction inverters. Explain in detail how battery chargers and modules work in electric vehicles. 

Duration: 11 hours

In this module students will learn about the technology behind torque and speed sensors and thermistors. Design torque, speed, and temperature sensing systems for traction motors, batteries, and inverters. Explain in detail how torque and speed sensors and thermistors work in electric vehicles. Specify torque, speed, and temperature sensing elements in traction motors, batteries, and inverters.

Duration: 2 hours

This module contains materials for the proctored final exam for MS-EE degree students. If you've upgraded to the for-credit version of this course, please make sure you review the additional for-credit materials in the Introductory module and anywhere else they may be found.

To learn about ProctorU's exam proctoring, system test links, and privacy policy, visit www.colorado.edu/ecee/online-masters/current-students/proctoru.

Grading

Assignment
Percentage of Grade

Week 1: Assignment: How Electric Vehicles Work

15%
Week 1: Quiz 2.5%

Week 2: Assignment: Major Electrical Components

15%
Week 2: Quiz 2.5%

Week 3: Assignment: Battery Charging and Monitoring

15%
Week 3: Quiz 2.5%

Week 4: Assignment: Sensors Critical to EV Performance

15%
Week 4: Quiz 2.5%

W​eek 5: Final Exam

30%

Letter Grade Rubric

Letter Grade 
Minimum Percentage

A

90%

B

80%

C

70%

D

60%

F

50%