Power Controller for Racecar/Electric Vehicle
- rebecca-mc
- May 22, 2021
- 1 min read
I used linear (LQR) and nonlinear (feedback linearization) techniques to control power in a nonlinear motor for an electric vehicle. I created the models and controllers in MATLAB and Simulink and tested them against requirements.
This was my project for two graduate controls classes I took my senior year of MIT: 2.151 (Advanced System Dynamics and Control) and 2.152 (Nonlinear Control). The project was inspired by a teammate's previous work on this control problem on the MIT FSAE team.
A Simulink block diagram of the nonlinear feedback linearization controller is shown below.
As shown below, the project explored the concept of a unified controller (top), which enables higher bandwidth control than the previous solution of a nested controller (bottom).
This project strengthened my knowledge of control techniques for highly nonlinear systems as well as my ability to translate a real-life controls problem into a well-formulated set of control requirements.
This is a strong and focused example of applying advanced control theory to a real engineering system, specifically an electric vehicle power controller. I like how it clearly connects theoretical methods like LQR (Linear Quadratic Regulator) and feedback linearization with practical implementation in MATLAB and Simulink.
The progression from modeling to controller design and then testing against requirements reflects a very realistic engineering workflow. It also highlights an important idea in control systems: moving from nested controllers to unified control structures can significantly improve performance, especially in nonlinear systems like EV motors.
Another valuable aspect is the link to Formula SAE (FSAE), which shows how academic concepts are often tested in competitive, real-world engineering environments. This makes the work more…