The controller on an electric vehicle is the device or method by which the speed and power output of the drive motor is controlled, much in the way the throttle plates in a carburetor or throttle body control the power output of a gas engine. The controller is usually interfaced to the accelerator or "gas pedal".

Controller Information

 

A Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) controller is typical in most EV's. You can think of the controller as a switch, it switches on and off at very high speeds to control how fast you want to go. Most controllers will monitor themselves for overcurrent and overheating conditions, shutting down temporarily if needed. There are also safety interlocks to make sure everything is hooked up right, and some controllers will even monitor other aspects of the motor. The controller is like a carburetor and regulates current going to the motor. It is a solid-state device that uses a pulse width modulator (PWM) that sends short bursts of current to the motor. It pulses at a rate of 15 kHz. Controller Information -

4QD Web Site

 

Polyspede has supplied the industrial community with motors and solid-state motor speed controls since 1959. A variety of motor speed controls for AC and DC applications are available in sizes from fractional to 500 horsepower in open chassis and enclosed versions. A comprehensive line of options can meet any design specification. Transformers and other accessories are available to complete your power transmission needs. Polyspede -

Controller Information Web Site

 

The speed controller is crucial to the efficiency and smooth operation of the electric car. Curtis/PMC was the first company to bring the resources of large scale manufacturing to controllers for road-going conversions, and they are still the largest manufacturer in the market. With the thousands of controllers they produce for vehicle manufacturers, from handicapped carts to delivery trucks, they are able to perfect the controller technology and the manufacturing process. This ensures consistent quality, performance, and factory support.

Controller Specifications - Electro Automotive Web Site

 

The electric vehicle controller is the electronics package that operates between the batteries and the motor to control the electric vehicle's speed and acceleration much like a carburetor does in a gasoline-powered vehicle. The controller transforms the battery's direct current into alternating current (for AC motors only) and regulates the energy flow from the battery. Unlike the carburetor, the controller will also reverse the motor rotation (so the vehicle can go in reverse), and convert the motor to a generator (so that the kinetic energy of motion can be used to recharge the battery when the brake is applied).

Controller Infromation - U. S. Department of Energy EV Power Systems Web Site

 

Curtis Controllers Curtis Instruments is the world's largest manufacturer of instruments and motor speed controllers for battery-powered vehicles and equipment. Power MOSFET electronic motor speed controllers designed to provide smooth, silent, efficient and cost effective speed, torque and braking control.

 Curtis Controller Web Site

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