Research Projects

Advancements in electric transportation are progressing at a rapid pace. Heavy-duty electric trucks, along with their autonomous counterparts, are gradually gaining prominence due to cost efficiency and low maintenance. These electric trucks require significant braking force, given their substantial weight, which can exceed 30 tons. They need a quick, smooth, and reliable braking system for operation in urban, semi-urban, and rural areas intersecting with highways. Due to the frequent braking these heavy-duty trucks undergo, the braking mechanism must be not only efficient but also fast and dependable. Regenerative braking is a highly efficient choice; however, its braking power is limited by the capacity of the electric motor. Conversely, eddy current brakes can effectively decelerate heavy vehicles like trains and trucks with ease. They are simple, rugged, and reliable devices that require very low maintenance. Unlike mechanical brakes, the braking force of eddy current brakes can be directly controlled by an EV's electrical system. Therefore, eddy current brakes are an optimal choice for heavy-duty electric trucks. A unified electric braking system that combines regenerative and eddy current braking provides the unique advantages of being quick, efficient, safe, and reliable. Due to the substantial weight of electric trucks and the compact design requirements of modern vehicles necessitates detailed multi-physics modeling. This includes coupled thermal and electromagnetic field analysis to ensure the reliability and longevity of the braking system. In this context, the project aims to address the following specific challenges: (i) Accurate electromagnetic and thermal modeling of axial-flux disk eddy-current brakes, ensuring compactness and reliability; (ii) Improving the braking performance of eddy-current brakes at low speeds, given that the eddy-current braking force decreases with speed; (iii) Designing and implementing a closed-loop control system for a unified electric braking setup that optimally combines regenerative and eddy-current braking. Project Significance: As we transition towards a future dominated by autonomous and electric vehicles, stringent braking standards, especially for heavy-duty electric trucks, will become essential for road safety. For this purpose, eddy-current brakes offer significant advantages by enabling smooth, rapid deceleration without direct physical contact. A unified braking approach that combines regenerative and eddy-current braking ensures both energy efficiency and reliability. This project addresses critical needs in vehicle safety, energy efficiency, and sustainability within the electric transportation sector. By developing an advanced hybrid braking system, the project aligns with global trends in autonomous and electric vehicle adoption and contributes to safer and more efficient heavy-duty transportation solutions.