Modeling, Simulation and Experimental Verification of an Electric Bicycle with Regenerative Braking

Electric bicycles are widely available in user markets. However their use as a daily commuting vehicle is limited due to the need for frequent recharging. This thesis focuses on the mathematical modeling of electrical bicycle with regenerative breaking. Basic bond graphs methods are discussed here to develop state space models for mechatronic systems. A bond graph based mathematical model of an electric bicycle with regeneration is developed in this thesis. Mathematical models are tested in simulation, generating different road scenarios. Parameters required for the simulation are calculated using an experimental setup. The thesis shows the capability of bond graphs to assist in calculations for regenerative charging. The main focus of this thesis is to evaluate simulation models against a prototype. Simulation results and road testing of the prototype indicate the regenerative braking is not only feasible, but an advantage to implement in an electric bicycle. It is shown that the distance between battery recharge is improved by as much as 10 depending on riding condition

Advanced Control and Estimation Concepts, and New Hardware Topologies for Future Mobility

According to the National Research Council, the use of embedded systems throughout society could well overtake previous milestones in the information revolution. Mechatronics is the synergistic combination of electronic, mechanical engineering, controls, software and systems engineering in the design of processes and products. Mechatronic systems put “intelligence” into physical systems. Embedded sensors/actuators/processors are integral parts of mechatronic systems. The implementation of mechatronic systems is consistently on the rise. However, manufacturers are working hard to reduce the implementation cost of these systems while trying avoid compromising product quality. One way of addressing these conflicting objectives is through new automatic control methods, virtual sensing/estimation, and new innovative hardware topologies