An Intelligent Control System for an Electrically Power Assisted Cycle (EPAC)

Abstract

This paper is focused on proposing an enhanced controller for a hybrid drive mechanism in an Electrically Power Assisted Cycle (EPAC) to improve the battery energy utilization while maintaining the rider’s physical comfort. A real time data acquisition system was set up on a conventional bicycle using sensors and interfacing modules to verify the operating parameters. A fuzzy logic based novel control algorithm was developed upon the acquired data, to overcome the limitations in proportional assist control aided EPACs. The fuzzy controller was implemented using a novel ‘iControl’ algorithm. The developed control algorithm was installed on the newly developed EPAC and practically implemented. The developed algorithm showed the capability to improve range via better energy utilization and maintain rider comfort at the same time.