This course aims to provide an overview and understanding of motor dynamics modeling and control drives using MATLAB Simulink. After successfully completing this course, students will understand the latest developments in electronics, machines, and modern control theories. This knowledge enables them to develop and comprehend machine models with power electronics. Students will understand the operating principles of variable-speed drives, including electrical machines, associated power converters, and modern control theories. The course also enhances students’ analytical abilities to understand electrical machine dynamics and provides general approaches for modeling electromechanical devices. It offers a step-by-step approach for developing dynamic models of electrical machines and designing advanced control schemes based on these models. Finally, students will gain an overview of the simulation of drives in power systems and the dynamics of machines using MATLAB Simulink.
Course contents
This course will cover following topics:
- The matrix equation of the basic rotating machines
- Reference frame theory
- Theory of symmetrical induction and synchronous machines
- The instantaneous power theories
- Reference frame theory used in the analysis and simulation of power systems and drives
- Basic voltage and current controllers for power electronics converters
Learning outcomes
After completing this course successfully, the student
- understands the latest development in electronics, machines and modern control theory,
- understands the machine models with power electronics,
- has developed their analytical abilities for understanding electrical machines dynamics,
- has a general approach for modeling of electromechanical devices,
- has an overview about simulation of drives in power systems as well as about the dynamics and control of grid-connected inverters.
The course develops lifelong learning and interpersonal skills.
Course material
Lecture material and other material announced on lectures.
Text books:
- “Modern power electronics and AC drives.” Bose, B. K. Prentice-Hall (2002): 1681-1685.
- “Electric Motor Drives – Modeling, Analysis and Control,” R. Krishnan, Prentice-Hall of India.
- “Fundamentals of Electric Drives”, Gopal K Dubey, Narosa.
- “Electric Drives – Concepts and Applications”, Vedam Subrahmanyam, Tata McGraw Hill.
- “Electric Machinery Fundamentals 5th”, Stephen Chapman, McGraw Hill.
- “Power Electronics: Devices, Circuits, and Applications”, fourth edition Muhammad H. Rashid, Prentice-Hall, Inc, (1993).
Teaching schedule
Hybrid lectures that can be followed online or on campus during 16.2.2026 – 20.4.2026. FITech students can attend online through Zoom. Recorded lectures will be available in the Moodle after completion of each lecture.
Completion methods
The course consists of two parts:
- Part 1: Lectures (18 h) and online final examination (Moodle). (Course name: Control and Simulation Principles of Drives and Converter Systems, 3 ECTS).
- Part 2: Written assignment. (Course name: Control and Simulation Principles of Drives and Converter Systems, 2 ECTS).
- When applying for the course, you have the option to complete both parts (5 ECTS in total). If you only complete one part, you will get 2 or 3 ECTS.
More information in the University of Vaasa study guide.
You can get a digital badge after completing this course.