Development of a CAN Based Electric Vehicle Control System

Abstract

Abstract The Intelligent Systems and Automation Lab (ISAL) at the University of Kansas has been working on developing new electric vehicle drivetrain and battery technology using an electric bus as a development platform. In its preexisting state the bus featured an unreliable control system to manage load control and drive enable functions. As a result this thesis presents the design of a Controller Area Network (CAN) based control system to be used as a replacement for the existing system. The use of this new system will allow for easy expansion, higher efficiency and greater reliability in further developing the ISAL electric bus concept vehicle. Controller Area Network protocol allows the system to easily implement smart features allowing multiple modules to work together as well as reduce the overall wiring complexity of the control system. CAN networks utilize a single twisted pair cable and differential transmission to reliably transmit data to all modules featured in the control system. Additionally, because CAN is a common network protocol used in automotive electronics it will be easy to interface with other existing automotive electronics. This thesis shows the development of six different CAN modules as well as a proposed implementation for the complete system. Developed modules include an Interior Lighting Module, Headlights and Accessories Load Module, Accelerator Pedal Sensor Module, Battery Voltage Sensor Module, Input Module, and Speed Sensor and Display Module. Modules serve the purpose of reading sensors, controlling electric loads and displaying pertinent information to the driver. A prototype of this system featuring one of each module has been created for display and test purposes and is fully functional.