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Fundamentals of Electric Machines
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:35:22
Abstract
This course introduces to different electric machine concepts and provides a deeper understanding of their detailed operating principles. Different aspects arising in the design of electric machines, like dimensioning of magnetic and electric circuits as well as consideration of mechanical and thermal constraints, are investigated. The exercises are used to consolidate the concepts discussed.
Objective
The objective of this course is to convey knowledge on the operating principles of different types of electric machines. Further objectives are to evaluate machine types for given specification and to acquire the ability to perform a rough design of an electrical machine while considering the versatile aspects with respect to magnetic, electrical, mechanical and thermal limitations. Exercises are used to consolidate the presented theoretical concepts.
Content
‐ Fundamentals in magnetic circuits and electromechanical energy conversion. ‐ Force and torque calculation. ‐ Operating principles, magnetic and electric modelling and design of different electric machine concepts: DC machine, AC machines (permanent magnet synchronous machine, reluctance machine and induction machine). ‐ Complex space vector notation, rotating coordinate system (dqtransformation). ‐ Loss components in electric machines, scaling laws of electromechanical actuators. ‐ Mechanical and thermal modelling.
Resources
Lecture Notes
Lecture notes and associated exercises including correct answers
Learning Materials (Links)
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- BSC , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- written 180 minutes
- Aids
- Non-programmable calculator. A summary of the lecture notes is provided to the students at the written exam. Own summaries, exercises and their solutions are not allowed.
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Fundamentals of Electric Machines |
|
4 h weekly |
Offered In
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Mechatronics (Focus Coordinator: Prof. Bradley Nelson To achieve the 20 credits for Focus Specialization Mechatronics, 151-0640-00L Studies on Mechatronics is compulsory.)
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Electives (This is only a small selection. Other courses from the ETH course catalogue may be chosen. Please consult the "Richtlinien zu Projekten, Praktika, Seminare" (German only), published on our website ( ).)
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Robotics, Systems and Control (The courses listed in this category “Core Courses” are recommended. Alternative courses can be chosen in agreement with the tutor.)
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Energy and Power Electronics (The core courses and specialisation courses below are a selection for students who wish to specialise in the area of "Energy and Power Electronics", see . The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
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Specialisation Courses (These specialisation courses are particularly recommended for the area of "Energy and Power Electronics", but you are free to choose courses from any other field in agreement with your tutor. A minimum of 40 credits must be obtained from specialisation courses during the Master's Programme.)
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Major Courses (A total of 42 CP must be achieved during the Master Programme. The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
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Recommended Subjects (These courses are recommended, but you are free to choose courses from any other special field. Please consult your tutor.)
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