Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3B6: Photonic Technology, 2017-18
Module Leader
Lecturers
Prof R Penty and Prof I White
Lab Leader
Prof R Penty
Timing and Structure
Lent term. 16 lectures.
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Introduce key aspects of photonics technology and its applications in fields such as communications, storage, medicine, environmental sensing and solar power.
- Introduce both optical fibres and photonic components including light emitting diodes, lasers, photodiodes and solar cells.
- Introduce photonic sub-systems including transmitters and receivers for use in applications such as wide area, metropolitan and local area networks.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- Know of the main applications of optoelectronics.
- Choose appropriate transmission media with reference to bandwidth and physical environment.
- Know which semiconductors are used for what optoelectronic tasks and why.
- Be familiar with the construction of LEDs, and be able to estimate their linewidth, speed and external quantum efficiency.
- Be familiar with the construction of Fabry-Perot and grating based diode lasers, and how this relates to their spectra and light-current characteristics
- Estimate the response of semiconductor lasers to changes in their drive current or operating environment.
- Be familiar with the construction of junction photodiodes, and hence be able to estimate the capacitance and responsivity, and know how to operate them for best sensitivity and speed.
- Be familiar with the relationship in construction and operation between junction photodiodes, avalanche photodiodes, solar cells and photoconductors.
- Perform noise calculations for typical optoelectronic circuits.
- Be aware of the design of typical receiver circuits with reference to the physical characteristics of photodetectors.
- Be familiar with the construction of fibres as well as the causes of attenuation and dispersion.
- Perform calculations of link budgets, dispersion and attenuation limits.
Content
Photonic Technology
- How and why optoelectronics fits within electronics: Outline of major applications areas within engineering, science and medicine. Examples of optoelectronic subsystems, solar cells, lighting, Communication transceivers.
- Optical processes in semiconductors: Direct and indirect band structures, comparison of Silicon, Germanium, GaAs based and InP based materials. Optical absorption, Optical emission, non-radiative transitions
- Light emitting diodes: Quantum efficiency, wavelength, optical line width, visible devices, modulation limits, device structures, materials.
- Laser diodes: Stimulated emission, optical gain. Laser as a feedback amplifier of spontaneous emission, Fabry-Perot laser cavities. Rate equations, modulation characteristics, dynamic linewidth. Examples of common diode laser types.
- Optical transmitter circuits: LED based circuits, LED types, transmitter power, bandwidth. Laser based circuits, laser types, biassing, feedback circuits. Noise in optical systems, shot noise, thermal noise, noise bandwidths, circuit effects.
- Photodetectors: PN junction photodiodes, photoconductors, solar cells, avalanche photodiodes, capacitance, transit time, leakage currents, avalanche gain and noise.
- Optical receiver circuits; Transimpedance amplifiers.
- Fibres and transmission: Multimode and single mode fibres: Attenuation, dispersion, interfaces to fibre.
- Transmission systems in a real environment: Power budgets, error rates, monitoring, power penalties, margins for temperature and ageing. Emerging technologies.
Examples papers
Three examples papers are provided during the course.
Coursework
Laser Experiment
Students are provided with two types of semiconductor lasers and are asked to perform basic electrical and optical measurements to characterise their operation. The measurements are used to derive the basic properties of these laser devices and understand the underlying fundamental physical mechanisms that govern their operation.
Learning objectives:
After completing this coursework students should be able to
- Be familiar with the basic operation of LEDs and lasers,
- Generate light-current and current-voltage curves for a semiconductor device,
- Find the laser threshold and stray series resistance of a laser,
- Characterise the spectrum of light emitted from LEDs and lasers,
- Estimate the refractive index of the laser.
Practical information:
- Sessions will take place in EIETL, during weeks 3-8 in Lent term and weeks 1-2 in Easter term.
- This activity involves preliminary work (~ 2 h): you should read the related lecture notes and experiment information sheet with the appendices, to gain some knowledge background on semiconductor devices and error analysis prior to experiments.
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please see the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references for this module.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
P8
Ability to apply engineering techniques taking account of a range of commercial and industrial constraints.
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
US3
An understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 31/08/2017 10:57
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3B6: Photonic Technology, 2025-26
Module Leader
Lecturer
Dr Q Cheng, Prof R Penty
Lab Leader
Dr Q Cheng,
Timing and Structure
Lent term. 16 lectures.
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Introduce key aspects of photonics technology and its applications in fields such as communications, storage, medicine, environmental sensing and solar power.
- Introduce both optical fibres and photonic components including light emitting diodes, lasers, photodiodes and solar cells.
- Introduce photonic sub-systems including transmitters and receivers for use in applications such as wide area, metropolitan and local area networks.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- Know of the main applications of optoelectronics.
- Choose appropriate transmission media with reference to bandwidth and physical environment.
- Know which semiconductors are used for what optoelectronic tasks and why.
- Be familiar with the construction of LEDs, and be able to estimate their linewidth, speed and external quantum efficiency.
- Be familiar with the construction of Fabry-Perot and grating based diode lasers, and how this relates to their spectra and light-current characteristics
- Estimate the response of semiconductor lasers to changes in their drive current or operating environment.
- Be familiar with the construction of junction photodiodes, and hence be able to estimate the capacitance and responsivity, and know how to operate them for best sensitivity and speed.
- Be familiar with the relationship in construction and operation between junction photodiodes, avalanche photodiodes, solar cells and photoconductors.
- Perform noise calculations for typical optoelectronic circuits.
- Be aware of the design of typical receiver circuits with reference to the physical characteristics of photodetectors.
- Be familiar with the construction of fibres as well as the causes of attenuation and dispersion.
- Perform calculations of link budgets, dispersion and attenuation limits.
Content
Photonic Technology
- How and why optoelectronics fits within electronics: Outline of major applications areas within engineering, science and medicine. Examples of optoelectronic subsystems, solar cells, lighting, Communication transceivers.
- Optical processes in semiconductors: Direct and indirect band structures, comparison of Silicon, Germanium, GaAs based and InP based materials. Optical absorption, Optical emission, non-radiative transitions
- Light emitting diodes: Quantum efficiency, wavelength, optical line width, visible devices, modulation limits, device structures, materials.
- Laser diodes: Stimulated emission, optical gain. Laser as a feedback amplifier of spontaneous emission, Fabry-Perot laser cavities. Rate equations, modulation characteristics, dynamic linewidth. Examples of common diode laser types.
- Optical transmitter circuits: LED based circuits, LED types, transmitter power, bandwidth. Laser based circuits, laser types, biassing, feedback circuits. Noise in optical systems, shot noise, thermal noise, noise bandwidths, circuit effects.
- Photodetectors: PN junction photodiodes, photoconductors, solar cells, avalanche photodiodes, capacitance, transit time, leakage currents, avalanche gain and noise.
- Optical receiver circuits; Transimpedance amplifiers.
- Fibres and transmission: Multimode and single mode fibres: Attenuation, dispersion, interfaces to fibre.
- Transmission systems in a real environment: Power budgets, error rates, monitoring, power penalties, margins for temperature and ageing. Emerging technologies.
Examples papers
Three examples papers are provided during the course.
Coursework
Laser Experiment
Students are provided with two types of semiconductor lasers and are asked to perform basic electrical and optical measurements to characterise their operation. The measurements are used to derive the basic properties of these laser devices and understand the underlying fundamental physical mechanisms that govern their operation.
Learning objectives:
After completing this coursework students should be able to
- Be familiar with the basic operation of LEDs and lasers,
- Generate light-current and current-voltage curves for a semiconductor device,
- Find the laser threshold and stray series resistance of a laser,
- Characterise the spectrum of light emitted from LEDs and lasers,
- Estimate the refractive index of the laser.
Practical information:
- Sessions will take place in EIETL, during weeks 3-8 in Lent term and weeks 1-2 in Easter term.
- This activity involves preliminary work (~ 2 h): you should read the related lecture notes and experiment information sheet with the appendices, to gain some knowledge background on semiconductor devices and error analysis prior to experiments.
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
P8
Ability to apply engineering techniques taking account of a range of commercial and industrial constraints.
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
US3
An understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 04/06/2025 13:16
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3B6: Photonic Technology, 2021-22
Module Leader
Prof R Penty
Lecturer
Prof R Penty
Lecturer
Dr Q Cheng
Lab Leader
Prof R Penty
Timing and Structure
Lent term. 16 lectures.
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Introduce key aspects of photonics technology and its applications in fields such as communications, storage, medicine, environmental sensing and solar power.
- Introduce both optical fibres and photonic components including light emitting diodes, lasers, photodiodes and solar cells.
- Introduce photonic sub-systems including transmitters and receivers for use in applications such as wide area, metropolitan and local area networks.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- Know of the main applications of optoelectronics.
- Choose appropriate transmission media with reference to bandwidth and physical environment.
- Know which semiconductors are used for what optoelectronic tasks and why.
- Be familiar with the construction of LEDs, and be able to estimate their linewidth, speed and external quantum efficiency.
- Be familiar with the construction of Fabry-Perot and grating based diode lasers, and how this relates to their spectra and light-current characteristics
- Estimate the response of semiconductor lasers to changes in their drive current or operating environment.
- Be familiar with the construction of junction photodiodes, and hence be able to estimate the capacitance and responsivity, and know how to operate them for best sensitivity and speed.
- Be familiar with the relationship in construction and operation between junction photodiodes, avalanche photodiodes, solar cells and photoconductors.
- Perform noise calculations for typical optoelectronic circuits.
- Be aware of the design of typical receiver circuits with reference to the physical characteristics of photodetectors.
- Be familiar with the construction of fibres as well as the causes of attenuation and dispersion.
- Perform calculations of link budgets, dispersion and attenuation limits.
Content
Photonic Technology
- How and why optoelectronics fits within electronics: Outline of major applications areas within engineering, science and medicine. Examples of optoelectronic subsystems, solar cells, lighting, Communication transceivers.
- Optical processes in semiconductors: Direct and indirect band structures, comparison of Silicon, Germanium, GaAs based and InP based materials. Optical absorption, Optical emission, non-radiative transitions
- Light emitting diodes: Quantum efficiency, wavelength, optical line width, visible devices, modulation limits, device structures, materials.
- Laser diodes: Stimulated emission, optical gain. Laser as a feedback amplifier of spontaneous emission, Fabry-Perot laser cavities. Rate equations, modulation characteristics, dynamic linewidth. Examples of common diode laser types.
- Optical transmitter circuits: LED based circuits, LED types, transmitter power, bandwidth. Laser based circuits, laser types, biassing, feedback circuits. Noise in optical systems, shot noise, thermal noise, noise bandwidths, circuit effects.
- Photodetectors: PN junction photodiodes, photoconductors, solar cells, avalanche photodiodes, capacitance, transit time, leakage currents, avalanche gain and noise.
- Optical receiver circuits; Transimpedance amplifiers.
- Fibres and transmission: Multimode and single mode fibres: Attenuation, dispersion, interfaces to fibre.
- Transmission systems in a real environment: Power budgets, error rates, monitoring, power penalties, margins for temperature and ageing. Emerging technologies.
Examples papers
Three examples papers are provided during the course.
Coursework
Laser Experiment
Students are provided with two types of semiconductor lasers and are asked to perform basic electrical and optical measurements to characterise their operation. The measurements are used to derive the basic properties of these laser devices and understand the underlying fundamental physical mechanisms that govern their operation.
Learning objectives:
After completing this coursework students should be able to
- Be familiar with the basic operation of LEDs and lasers,
- Generate light-current and current-voltage curves for a semiconductor device,
- Find the laser threshold and stray series resistance of a laser,
- Characterise the spectrum of light emitted from LEDs and lasers,
- Estimate the refractive index of the laser.
Practical information:
- Sessions will take place in EIETL, during weeks 3-8 in Lent term and weeks 1-2 in Easter term.
- This activity involves preliminary work (~ 2 h): you should read the related lecture notes and experiment information sheet with the appendices, to gain some knowledge background on semiconductor devices and error analysis prior to experiments.
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
P8
Ability to apply engineering techniques taking account of a range of commercial and industrial constraints.
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
US3
An understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 20/05/2021 07:36
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3B6: Photonic Technology, 2018-19
Module Leader
Lecturers
Prof R Penty and Prof I White
Lab Leader
Prof R Penty
Timing and Structure
Lent term. 16 lectures.
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Introduce key aspects of photonics technology and its applications in fields such as communications, storage, medicine, environmental sensing and solar power.
- Introduce both optical fibres and photonic components including light emitting diodes, lasers, photodiodes and solar cells.
- Introduce photonic sub-systems including transmitters and receivers for use in applications such as wide area, metropolitan and local area networks.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- Know of the main applications of optoelectronics.
- Choose appropriate transmission media with reference to bandwidth and physical environment.
- Know which semiconductors are used for what optoelectronic tasks and why.
- Be familiar with the construction of LEDs, and be able to estimate their linewidth, speed and external quantum efficiency.
- Be familiar with the construction of Fabry-Perot and grating based diode lasers, and how this relates to their spectra and light-current characteristics
- Estimate the response of semiconductor lasers to changes in their drive current or operating environment.
- Be familiar with the construction of junction photodiodes, and hence be able to estimate the capacitance and responsivity, and know how to operate them for best sensitivity and speed.
- Be familiar with the relationship in construction and operation between junction photodiodes, avalanche photodiodes, solar cells and photoconductors.
- Perform noise calculations for typical optoelectronic circuits.
- Be aware of the design of typical receiver circuits with reference to the physical characteristics of photodetectors.
- Be familiar with the construction of fibres as well as the causes of attenuation and dispersion.
- Perform calculations of link budgets, dispersion and attenuation limits.
Content
Photonic Technology
- How and why optoelectronics fits within electronics: Outline of major applications areas within engineering, science and medicine. Examples of optoelectronic subsystems, solar cells, lighting, Communication transceivers.
- Optical processes in semiconductors: Direct and indirect band structures, comparison of Silicon, Germanium, GaAs based and InP based materials. Optical absorption, Optical emission, non-radiative transitions
- Light emitting diodes: Quantum efficiency, wavelength, optical line width, visible devices, modulation limits, device structures, materials.
- Laser diodes: Stimulated emission, optical gain. Laser as a feedback amplifier of spontaneous emission, Fabry-Perot laser cavities. Rate equations, modulation characteristics, dynamic linewidth. Examples of common diode laser types.
- Optical transmitter circuits: LED based circuits, LED types, transmitter power, bandwidth. Laser based circuits, laser types, biassing, feedback circuits. Noise in optical systems, shot noise, thermal noise, noise bandwidths, circuit effects.
- Photodetectors: PN junction photodiodes, photoconductors, solar cells, avalanche photodiodes, capacitance, transit time, leakage currents, avalanche gain and noise.
- Optical receiver circuits; Transimpedance amplifiers.
- Fibres and transmission: Multimode and single mode fibres: Attenuation, dispersion, interfaces to fibre.
- Transmission systems in a real environment: Power budgets, error rates, monitoring, power penalties, margins for temperature and ageing. Emerging technologies.
Examples papers
Three examples papers are provided during the course.
Coursework
Laser Experiment
Students are provided with two types of semiconductor lasers and are asked to perform basic electrical and optical measurements to characterise their operation. The measurements are used to derive the basic properties of these laser devices and understand the underlying fundamental physical mechanisms that govern their operation.
Learning objectives:
After completing this coursework students should be able to
- Be familiar with the basic operation of LEDs and lasers,
- Generate light-current and current-voltage curves for a semiconductor device,
- Find the laser threshold and stray series resistance of a laser,
- Characterise the spectrum of light emitted from LEDs and lasers,
- Estimate the refractive index of the laser.
Practical information:
- Sessions will take place in EIETL, during weeks 3-8 in Lent term and weeks 1-2 in Easter term.
- This activity involves preliminary work (~ 2 h): you should read the related lecture notes and experiment information sheet with the appendices, to gain some knowledge background on semiconductor devices and error analysis prior to experiments.
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please see the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references for this module.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
P8
Ability to apply engineering techniques taking account of a range of commercial and industrial constraints.
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
US3
An understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 15/05/2018 14:32
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3B6: Photonic Technology, 2024-25
Module Leader
Lecturer
Dr Q Cheng, Prof R Penty
Lab Leader
Dr Q Cheng,
Timing and Structure
Lent term. 16 lectures.
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Introduce key aspects of photonics technology and its applications in fields such as communications, storage, medicine, environmental sensing and solar power.
- Introduce both optical fibres and photonic components including light emitting diodes, lasers, photodiodes and solar cells.
- Introduce photonic sub-systems including transmitters and receivers for use in applications such as wide area, metropolitan and local area networks.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- Know of the main applications of optoelectronics.
- Choose appropriate transmission media with reference to bandwidth and physical environment.
- Know which semiconductors are used for what optoelectronic tasks and why.
- Be familiar with the construction of LEDs, and be able to estimate their linewidth, speed and external quantum efficiency.
- Be familiar with the construction of Fabry-Perot and grating based diode lasers, and how this relates to their spectra and light-current characteristics
- Estimate the response of semiconductor lasers to changes in their drive current or operating environment.
- Be familiar with the construction of junction photodiodes, and hence be able to estimate the capacitance and responsivity, and know how to operate them for best sensitivity and speed.
- Be familiar with the relationship in construction and operation between junction photodiodes, avalanche photodiodes, solar cells and photoconductors.
- Perform noise calculations for typical optoelectronic circuits.
- Be aware of the design of typical receiver circuits with reference to the physical characteristics of photodetectors.
- Be familiar with the construction of fibres as well as the causes of attenuation and dispersion.
- Perform calculations of link budgets, dispersion and attenuation limits.
Content
Photonic Technology
- How and why optoelectronics fits within electronics: Outline of major applications areas within engineering, science and medicine. Examples of optoelectronic subsystems, solar cells, lighting, Communication transceivers.
- Optical processes in semiconductors: Direct and indirect band structures, comparison of Silicon, Germanium, GaAs based and InP based materials. Optical absorption, Optical emission, non-radiative transitions
- Light emitting diodes: Quantum efficiency, wavelength, optical line width, visible devices, modulation limits, device structures, materials.
- Laser diodes: Stimulated emission, optical gain. Laser as a feedback amplifier of spontaneous emission, Fabry-Perot laser cavities. Rate equations, modulation characteristics, dynamic linewidth. Examples of common diode laser types.
- Optical transmitter circuits: LED based circuits, LED types, transmitter power, bandwidth. Laser based circuits, laser types, biassing, feedback circuits. Noise in optical systems, shot noise, thermal noise, noise bandwidths, circuit effects.
- Photodetectors: PN junction photodiodes, photoconductors, solar cells, avalanche photodiodes, capacitance, transit time, leakage currents, avalanche gain and noise.
- Optical receiver circuits; Transimpedance amplifiers.
- Fibres and transmission: Multimode and single mode fibres: Attenuation, dispersion, interfaces to fibre.
- Transmission systems in a real environment: Power budgets, error rates, monitoring, power penalties, margins for temperature and ageing. Emerging technologies.
Examples papers
Three examples papers are provided during the course.
Coursework
Laser Experiment
Students are provided with two types of semiconductor lasers and are asked to perform basic electrical and optical measurements to characterise their operation. The measurements are used to derive the basic properties of these laser devices and understand the underlying fundamental physical mechanisms that govern their operation.
Learning objectives:
After completing this coursework students should be able to
- Be familiar with the basic operation of LEDs and lasers,
- Generate light-current and current-voltage curves for a semiconductor device,
- Find the laser threshold and stray series resistance of a laser,
- Characterise the spectrum of light emitted from LEDs and lasers,
- Estimate the refractive index of the laser.
Practical information:
- Sessions will take place in EIETL, during weeks 3-8 in Lent term and weeks 1-2 in Easter term.
- This activity involves preliminary work (~ 2 h): you should read the related lecture notes and experiment information sheet with the appendices, to gain some knowledge background on semiconductor devices and error analysis prior to experiments.
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
P8
Ability to apply engineering techniques taking account of a range of commercial and industrial constraints.
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
US3
An understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 31/05/2024 07:27
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3B6: Photonic Technology, 2020-21
Module Leader
Prof R Penty
Lecturer
Prof R Penty
Lecturer
Dr Q Cheng
Lab Leader
Prof R Penty
Timing and Structure
Lent term. 16 lectures.
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Introduce key aspects of photonics technology and its applications in fields such as communications, storage, medicine, environmental sensing and solar power.
- Introduce both optical fibres and photonic components including light emitting diodes, lasers, photodiodes and solar cells.
- Introduce photonic sub-systems including transmitters and receivers for use in applications such as wide area, metropolitan and local area networks.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- Know of the main applications of optoelectronics.
- Choose appropriate transmission media with reference to bandwidth and physical environment.
- Know which semiconductors are used for what optoelectronic tasks and why.
- Be familiar with the construction of LEDs, and be able to estimate their linewidth, speed and external quantum efficiency.
- Be familiar with the construction of Fabry-Perot and grating based diode lasers, and how this relates to their spectra and light-current characteristics
- Estimate the response of semiconductor lasers to changes in their drive current or operating environment.
- Be familiar with the construction of junction photodiodes, and hence be able to estimate the capacitance and responsivity, and know how to operate them for best sensitivity and speed.
- Be familiar with the relationship in construction and operation between junction photodiodes, avalanche photodiodes, solar cells and photoconductors.
- Perform noise calculations for typical optoelectronic circuits.
- Be aware of the design of typical receiver circuits with reference to the physical characteristics of photodetectors.
- Be familiar with the construction of fibres as well as the causes of attenuation and dispersion.
- Perform calculations of link budgets, dispersion and attenuation limits.
Content
Photonic Technology
- How and why optoelectronics fits within electronics: Outline of major applications areas within engineering, science and medicine. Examples of optoelectronic subsystems, solar cells, lighting, Communication transceivers.
- Optical processes in semiconductors: Direct and indirect band structures, comparison of Silicon, Germanium, GaAs based and InP based materials. Optical absorption, Optical emission, non-radiative transitions
- Light emitting diodes: Quantum efficiency, wavelength, optical line width, visible devices, modulation limits, device structures, materials.
- Laser diodes: Stimulated emission, optical gain. Laser as a feedback amplifier of spontaneous emission, Fabry-Perot laser cavities. Rate equations, modulation characteristics, dynamic linewidth. Examples of common diode laser types.
- Optical transmitter circuits: LED based circuits, LED types, transmitter power, bandwidth. Laser based circuits, laser types, biassing, feedback circuits. Noise in optical systems, shot noise, thermal noise, noise bandwidths, circuit effects.
- Photodetectors: PN junction photodiodes, photoconductors, solar cells, avalanche photodiodes, capacitance, transit time, leakage currents, avalanche gain and noise.
- Optical receiver circuits; Transimpedance amplifiers.
- Fibres and transmission: Multimode and single mode fibres: Attenuation, dispersion, interfaces to fibre.
- Transmission systems in a real environment: Power budgets, error rates, monitoring, power penalties, margins for temperature and ageing. Emerging technologies.
Examples papers
Three examples papers are provided during the course.
Coursework
Laser Experiment
Students are provided with two types of semiconductor lasers and are asked to perform basic electrical and optical measurements to characterise their operation. The measurements are used to derive the basic properties of these laser devices and understand the underlying fundamental physical mechanisms that govern their operation.
Learning objectives:
After completing this coursework students should be able to
- Be familiar with the basic operation of LEDs and lasers,
- Generate light-current and current-voltage curves for a semiconductor device,
- Find the laser threshold and stray series resistance of a laser,
- Characterise the spectrum of light emitted from LEDs and lasers,
- Estimate the refractive index of the laser.
Practical information:
- Sessions will take place in EIETL, during weeks 3-8 in Lent term and weeks 1-2 in Easter term.
- This activity involves preliminary work (~ 2 h): you should read the related lecture notes and experiment information sheet with the appendices, to gain some knowledge background on semiconductor devices and error analysis prior to experiments.
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
P8
Ability to apply engineering techniques taking account of a range of commercial and industrial constraints.
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
US3
An understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 28/08/2020 10:58
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3B4: Electric Drive Systems, 2021-22
Module Leader
Lecturers
Dr S Goetz, Dr Long
Lab Leader
Dr T Long
Timing and Structure
Lent term. 16 lectures.
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Build on the Electrical Power Course given in Part 1B.
- Recognise that electrical motor drives in applications of all kinds are required to perform at high efficiency, controllability and reliability.
- Study electric drives for: medium power applications; precision applications; high power transport and industrial applications; domestic applications.
- Understand permanent magnet motors and their drive systems with a special focus on all-electric vehicles.
- Examine the magnetic design of permanent magnet motors, focusing on soft magnetic and permanent magnetic materials, saturation and iron losses.
- Study stepper motors which are used in robotics, 2-D and 3-D printers.
- Understand the main design principles of large three-phase induction motors.
- Study electric drive systems based on three-phase induction motors.
- Examine mechanisms for heat production and removal in electrical machines, and be able to carry out thermal analysis for duty-cycling operation.
- Study single-phase induction motor drive systems which are dominant in domestic applications such as white goods.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- Understand the basic principles of operation.
- Be able to apply simple motor design rules.
- Be able to specify diffferent motors for different applications.
- Understand the design contstriants on multiple motor machines.
- Appreciate magnetic and thermal constraints.
- Be aware of different magnet materials and suitability for motor operation.
Content
The subject of electric drive systems is a vast one, and so the syllabus has been designed to give the student an appreciation of this very important area of engineering by focusing on four areas: electric drives for medium power applications such as electric vehicles (drives based on permanent magnet motors); automation drives with applications such as robotics, 3-D printers (based around stepper motors); large drives for transport/industry (based around the three-phase induction motor); domestic drive systems based around the single-phase induction motor. The course illustrates the idea that the engineering of electric drive systems is multidisciplinary, involving an understanding of mechanics, control systems, power electronics, electromagnetics for machine design, electrical materials and thermal design.
Introduction to Electric Drive Systems (1 lecture)
What is an electric drive system? Range of applications. Components of a drive system. Drive based around brushed DC motor: DC motor principles and operating characteristics; sensors; mechanical load; controller; power electronic converter.
Permanent magnet machines (4 lectures)
Brushed permanent magnet machines and drive systems; principles of operation; analysis; transient behaviour and electrical/electromechanical times constants.
Trapezoidal brushless DC motors: construction, theory and operation as an electric drive system; sensored and sensorless operation.
Sinusoidal brushless DC motors: construction, theory and operation; electric drive system and control; application.
All-electric vehicle: an examination of the specificationof the electric drive system of the NissanLeaf. How the main design choices are made. Consequences for range, top speed, acceleration, efficiency and CO2 emissions.
Magnetic design (1 lecture)
Characteristics of soft and permanent magnetic materials. Analysis using magnetic circuits. Iron loss calculations. Designing with permanent magnet materials.
Stepper motors (2 lectures)
Construction, theory of operation and analysis. Position error. Torque-position characteristic and oscillatory behaviour and its avoidance. Operation at speed and when accelerating. Commissioning. Types of excitation: full-stepping, half-stepping, micro-stepping. Drive circuits.
Basic machine design (2 lectures)
Stator structure including winding and core. Electrical and magnetic loadings. Machine ratings and basic requirement specification. Basic machine design procedure and process.
Induction machine operation (2 lectures)
Operatingcharacteristics of induction machine. Maximum torque and starting torque of induction machines. Speed control methods of induction machine: adjusting stator voltage, adjusting rotor resistance, variable voltage variable frequency (VVVF) method.
Thermal duty cycle of electric machines (2 lectures)
Temperature expression and thermal analysis of electric machines. Basic cooling methods and over temperature protection of electric machine.
Single phase induction machine and universal AC machine (2 lectures)
Theory and equivalent circuit of single phase induction machines. Operating characteristics of single phase induction machines. Equivalent circuit of universal AC machines. Typical applications of universal AC machines.
Examples papers
4 examples papers issued at 2 week intervals to coincide with the lecture material.
Coursework
Electric drive for vehicles
Aim: To understand how an electrical drive system based around a brushless DC motor functions, and to investigate its performance.
Learning objectives:
-
To characterise the components of the drive system through a series of tests.
-
To perform experiments on the drive system under steady-state conditions in order to understand how it works, and to compare experimental results with theory.
-
To investigate the transient behaviour of the drive system during typical drive-cycles.
Practical information:
- Sessions will take place in the EIETL during the Lent term.
- It is best to do the lab after lecture 5 so that all of the background material has been covered.
- Prepare for the lab by reading the lab handout and going over lectures 1 - 5.
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
D4
Ability to generate an innovative design for products, systems, components or processes to fulfil new needs.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
US3
An understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 20/05/2021 07:36
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3B4: Electric Drive Systems, 2017-18
Module Leader
Lecturers
Dr P Long and Dr T Flack
Lab Leader
Dr P Long
Timing and Structure
Lent term. 16 lectures.
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Build on the Electrical Power Course given in Part 1B.
- Recognise that electrical motor drives in applications of all kinds are required to perform at high efficiency, controllability and reliability.
- Give an emphasis to design and applications of electical motor drives in housefold use, industry, and high performance machines.
- Look at general household use, typified by single phase motors.
- Examine three phase motors which are heavily utilised in industry for applications such as trains, pumps and conveyor belts.
- Look at high precision machines such as salient pole motors which are used at the small end of mechatronics and pernament magnet motors which are high performance machines also of use in mechatronics.
- Explore the overall design of mechatronic devices such as robots.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- Understand the basic principles of operation.
- Be able to apply simple motor design rules.
- Be able to specify diffferent motors for different applications.
- Understand the design contstriants on multiple motor machines.
- Appreciate magnetic and thermal constraints.
- Be aware of different magnet materials and suitability for motor operation.
Content
Motor Design (4 lectures)
Basic ac winding design, specific magnetic and electric loadings, air gap volume, magnetic circuit design, saturation effects. Thermal considerations.
All-Electric vehicles (1.5 lectures)
There are two main areas where the all-electric vehicle is being considered. The first is in aircraft where considerable advantage can be gained from the removal of mechanical systems which require bulky and expensive cooling systems and the replacement of these by electric motors and generators. The second is the electric car, where the goal is to remove pollution from the streets of busy towns. These lectures will explore the problems and the practicalities of these systems.
Single-phase motors (1.5 lectures)
Single-phase induction motors - split-phase, capacitor-start, permanent split capacitor, shaded-pole variants, ac commutator motors.
Three-phase motors (2 lectures)
Voltage source and current source, variable frequency three-phase induction motor drives. Open and closed-loop control schemes for induction motor drives. Analysis of the drive in the steady state.
Reluctance machines (2 lectures)
Salient-pole synchronous machines, stepper motor single-step and multi-step operation, switched-reluctance motors - principles of operation, behaviour, applications. Variable frequency operation and principal control strategies.
Permanent magnet machines (2 lectures)
Brushed and brushless motors, magnet materials (power/weight, cost, type), general principles of operation.
Mechatronics design (3 lectures)
Multiplexing of mutiple drive machines. Such as in robotics or rolling mills
Coursework
Robotic Steering
Learning objectives:
Practical information:
- Sessions will take place in [Location], during week(s) [xxx].
- This activity [involves/doesn't involve] preliminary work ([estimated duration]).
Full Technical Report:
Students [will/won't] have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please see the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references for this module.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
D4
Ability to generate an innovative design for products, systems, components or processes to fulfil new needs.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
US3
An understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 03/08/2017 15:17
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3B4: Electric Drive Systems, 2020-21
Module Leader
Lecturers
Dr T Long and Dr M Ainslie
Lab Leader
Dr T Long
Timing and Structure
Lent term. 16 lectures.
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Build on the Electrical Power Course given in Part 1B.
- Recognise that electrical motor drives in applications of all kinds are required to perform at high efficiency, controllability and reliability.
- Study electric drives for: medium power applications; precision applications; high power transport and industrial applications; domestic applications.
- Understand permanent magnet motors and their drive systems with a special focus on all-electric vehicles.
- Examine the magnetic design of permanent magnet motors, focusing on soft magnetic and permanent magnetic materials, saturation and iron losses.
- Study stepper motors which are used in robotics, 2-D and 3-D printers.
- Understand the main design principles of large three-phase induction motors.
- Study electric drive systems based on three-phase induction motors.
- Examine mechanisms for heat production and removal in electrical machines, and be able to carry out thermal analysis for duty-cycling operation.
- Study single-phase induction motor drive systems which are dominant in domestic applications such as white goods.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- Understand the basic principles of operation.
- Be able to apply simple motor design rules.
- Be able to specify diffferent motors for different applications.
- Understand the design contstriants on multiple motor machines.
- Appreciate magnetic and thermal constraints.
- Be aware of different magnet materials and suitability for motor operation.
Content
The subject of electric drive systems is a vast one, and so the syllabus has been designed to give the student an appreciation of this very important area of engineering by focusing on four areas: electric drives for medium power applications such as electric vehicles (drives based on permanent magnet motors); automation drives with applications such as robotics, 3-D printers (based around stepper motors); large drives for transport/industry (based around the three-phase induction motor); domestic drive systems based around the single-phase induction motor. The course illustrates the idea that the engineering of electric drive systems is multidisciplinary, involving an understanding of mechanics, control systems, power electronics, electromagnetics for machine design, electrical materials and thermal design.
Introduction to Electric Drive Systems (1 lecture)
What is an electric drive system? Range of applications. Components of a drive system. Drive based around brushed DC motor: DC motor principles and operating characteristics; sensors; mechanical load; controller; power electronic converter.
Permanent magnet machines (4 lectures)
Brushed permanent magnet machines and drive systems; principles of operation; analysis; transient behaviour and electrical/electromechanical times constants.
Trapezoidal brushless DC motors: construction, theory and operation as an electric drive system; sensored and sensorless operation.
Sinusoidal brushless DC motors: construction, theory and operation; electric drive system and control; application.
All-electric vehicle: an examination of the specificationof the electric drive system of the NissanLeaf. How the main design choices are made. Consequences for range, top speed, acceleration, efficiency and CO2 emissions.
Magnetic design (1 lecture)
Characteristics of soft and permanent magnetic materials. Analysis using magnetic circuits. Iron loss calculations. Designing with permanent magnet materials.
Stepper motors (2 lectures)
Construction, theory of operation and analysis. Position error. Torque-position characteristic and oscillatory behaviour and its avoidance. Operation at speed and when accelerating. Commissioning. Types of excitation: full-stepping, half-stepping, micro-stepping. Drive circuits.
Basic machine design (2 lectures)
Stator structure including winding and core. Electrical and magnetic loadings. Machine ratings and basic requirement specification. Basic machine design procedure and process.
Induction machine operation (2 lectures)
Operatingcharacteristics of induction machine. Maximum torque and starting torque of induction machines. Speed control methods of induction machine: adjusting stator voltage, adjusting rotor resistance, variable voltage variable frequency (VVVF) method.
Thermal duty cycle of electric machines (2 lectures)
Temperature expression and thermal analysis of electric machines. Basic cooling methods and over temperature protection of electric machine.
Single phase induction machine and universal AC machine (2 lectures)
Theory and equivalent circuit of single phase induction machines. Operating characteristics of single phase induction machines. Equivalent circuit of universal AC machines. Typical applications of universal AC machines.
Examples papers
4 examples papers issued at 2 week intervals to coincide with the lecture material.
Coursework
Electric drive for vehicles
Aim: To understand how an electrical drive system based around a brushless DC motor functions, and to investigate its performance.
Learning objectives:
-
To characterise the components of the drive system through a series of tests.
-
To perform experiments on the drive system under steady-state conditions in order to understand how it works, and to compare experimental results with theory.
-
To investigate the transient behaviour of the drive system during typical drive-cycles.
Practical information:
- Sessions will take place in the EIETL during the Lent term.
- It is best to do the lab after lecture 5 so that all of the background material has been covered.
- Prepare for the lab by reading the lab handout and going over lectures 1 - 5.
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
D4
Ability to generate an innovative design for products, systems, components or processes to fulfil new needs.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
US3
An understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 28/08/2020 10:57
Engineering Tripos Part IIA, 3B4: Electric Drive Systems, 2024-25
Module Leader
Lecturers
Prof T Flack, Prof T Coombs
Lab Leader
Timing and Structure
Lent term. 16 lectures.
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- Build on the Electrical Power Course given in Part 1B.
- Recognise that electrical motor drives in applications of all kinds are required to perform at high efficiency, controllability and reliability.
- Study electric drives for: medium power applications; precision applications; high power transport and industrial applications; domestic applications.
- Understand permanent magnet motors and their drive systems with a special focus on all-electric vehicles.
- Examine the magnetic design of permanent magnet motors, focusing on soft magnetic and permanent magnetic materials, saturation and iron losses.
- Study stepper motors which are used in robotics, 2-D and 3-D printers.
- Understand the main design principles of large three-phase induction motors.
- Study electric drive systems based on three-phase induction motors.
- Examine mechanisms for heat production and removal in electrical machines, and be able to carry out thermal analysis for duty-cycling operation.
- Study single-phase induction motor drive systems which are dominant in domestic applications such as white goods.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- Understand the basic principles of operation.
- Be able to apply simple motor design rules.
- Be able to specify diffferent motors for different applications.
- Understand the design contstriants on multiple motor machines.
- Appreciate magnetic and thermal constraints.
- Be aware of different magnet materials and suitability for motor operation.
Content
The subject of electric drive systems is a vast one, and so the syllabus has been designed to give the student an appreciation of this very important area of engineering by focusing on four areas: electric drives for medium power applications such as electric vehicles (drives based on permanent magnet motors); automation drives with applications such as robotics, 3-D printers (based around stepper motors); large drives for transport/industry (based around the three-phase induction motor); domestic drive systems based around the single-phase induction motor. The course illustrates the idea that the engineering of electric drive systems is multidisciplinary, involving an understanding of mechanics, control systems, power electronics, electromagnetics for machine design, electrical materials and thermal design.
Introduction to Electric Drive Systems (1 lecture)
What is an electric drive system? Range of applications. Components of a drive system. Drive based around brushed DC motor: DC motor principles and operating characteristics; sensors; mechanical load; controller; power electronic converter.
Permanent magnet machines (4 lectures)
Brushed permanent magnet machines and drive systems; principles of operation; analysis; transient behaviour and electrical/electromechanical times constants.
Trapezoidal brushless DC motors: construction, theory and operation as an electric drive system; sensored and sensorless operation.
Sinusoidal brushless DC motors: construction, theory and operation; electric drive system and control; application.
All-electric vehicle: an examination of the specificationof the electric drive system of the NissanLeaf. How the main design choices are made. Consequences for range, top speed, acceleration, efficiency and CO2 emissions.
Magnetic design (1 lecture)
Characteristics of soft and permanent magnetic materials. Analysis using magnetic circuits. Iron loss calculations. Designing with permanent magnet materials.
Stepper motors (2 lectures)
Construction, theory of operation and analysis. Position error. Torque-position characteristic and oscillatory behaviour and its avoidance. Operation at speed and when accelerating. Commissioning. Types of excitation: full-stepping, half-stepping, micro-stepping. Drive circuits.
Basic machine design (2 lectures)
Stator structure including winding and core. Electrical and magnetic loadings. Machine ratings and basic requirement specification. Basic machine design procedure and process.
Induction machine operation (2 lectures)
Operatingcharacteristics of induction machine. Maximum torque and starting torque of induction machines. Speed control methods of induction machine: adjusting stator voltage, adjusting rotor resistance, variable voltage variable frequency (VVVF) method.
Thermal duty cycle of electric machines (2 lectures)
Temperature expression and thermal analysis of electric machines. Basic cooling methods and over temperature protection of electric machine.
Single phase induction machine and universal AC machine (2 lectures)
Theory and equivalent circuit of single phase induction machines. Operating characteristics of single phase induction machines. Equivalent circuit of universal AC machines. Typical applications of universal AC machines.
Examples papers
4 examples papers issued at 2 week intervals to coincide with the lecture material.
Coursework
Electric drive for vehicles
Aim: To understand how an electrical drive system based around a brushless DC motor functions, and to investigate its performance.
Learning objectives:
-
To characterise the components of the drive system through a series of tests.
-
To perform experiments on the drive system under steady-state conditions in order to understand how it works, and to compare experimental results with theory.
-
To investigate the transient behaviour of the drive system during typical drive-cycles.
Practical information:
- Sessions will take place in the EIETL during the Lent term.
- It is best to do the lab after lecture 5 so that all of the background material has been covered.
- Prepare for the lab by reading the lab handout and going over lectures 1 - 5.
Full Technical Report:
Students will have the option to submit a Full Technical Report.
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
D4
Ability to generate an innovative design for products, systems, components or processes to fulfil new needs.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
US3
An understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 26/07/2024 14:11
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