Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/motors-circuits-design
For anyone looking to gain a comprehensive understanding of electric motors and their control systems, the Coursera course “Motors and Motor Control Circuits” offered by CU Boulder is an exceptional choice. This course, which can even be taken for academic credit as part of their Master of Electrical Engineering program, builds upon the foundational knowledge provided in its predecessor, “Sensors and Sensor Circuits.” If you haven’t taken the first course, it’s highly recommended as it covers the essential hardware and software development kit used throughout the specialization.
This second course dives deep into the intricacies of both AC and DC motors. Module 1 focuses on AC motor designs, explaining the operational principles of single and three-phase AC induction motors. You’ll learn to interpret torque-speed curves, optimize them based on electrical parameters, and explore various single-phase motor types, including a practical video analysis of a split-phase motor. This module is crucial for understanding how to select the right AC motor for specific applications.
Module 2 shifts to AC motor control. Here, you’ll master the details of AC motor specifications and enclosures, understanding how they align with national and international design standards. The course provides a robust methodology for researching design requirements and selecting appropriate motors. It also covers manual and automatic AC motor control components and systems, culminating in training on AC variable speed drives – a highly valuable skill in modern engineering.
Moving on to DC motors, Module 3 covers both traditional brushed and electronically driven brushless DC motors. You’ll explore different types like shunt wound, series wound, compound wound, servo, stepper, and torque motors, with detailed explanations of commutation and control. The module includes a hands-on lab exercise for DC motor speed measurement and a fascinating video analysis of a paper shredder’s internal workings. Similar to the AC section, it equips you with a methodology for researching DC motor design requirements.
Module 4 delves into DC motor control and stepper motors. It features another practical lab exercise focused on DC motor control, followed by an explanation of simplified stepper motor drives. You’ll get an in-depth look at stepper motor specifications, operation, and commercial driver chips. The module concludes with a lab on actuating a rotary sensor and a comparative analysis of DC versus AC motors, highlighting their respective advantages and disadvantages.
Finally, Module 5 is dedicated to Course Projects, where you’ll apply the knowledge gained through two practical lab assignments. Overall, “Motors and Motor Control Circuits” is a well-structured, informative, and practically oriented course that provides a solid foundation for anyone involved in electrical engineering, robotics, or automation. The blend of theoretical concepts, real-world examples, and hands-on labs makes it a highly recommendable resource.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/motors-circuits-design