This project aims to design and prepare an electric motor suitable for driving a 2001 Ford Taurus. The motor should be able to produce short-term power close to that of the stock car in a light, easily cooled, package. The team needs to specify out a motor, work with a manufacturer to obtain it, and perform operating experiments with a small model motor while awaiting delivery. All aspects of the motor design selection, including ratings, any changes in winding requirements, mounting, cooling capacity, connectors, and related issues should be addressed. The best ac motor controllers require rotational position sensors on the motor shaft.
Most types are delicate and expensive.
The project seeks to design and build rugged position or speed sensors for a rotating motor shaft. Both optical and magnetic proximity methods can be considered. Additional projects are available through the 2001 Future Energy Challenge.