Sensors for a Carbon Free World

Overview

In the Specialization on Sensors for a Carbon Free World you will learn about how sensors are at the core of renewable energy technology. You will study the technology, architecture and components of electric vehicles, wind turbines and solar panels. Then you will identify and learn about the sensors that measure and control the critical parameters that run these devices. The sensors include battery monitor IC’s, oil pressure and current sensors, carbon dioxide and oxygen sensors, resolvers, anemometers, accelerometers, strain gauges, and hall effect sensors. The sample learner has a 4-year degree in electrical engineering, is early to middle career, and needs to specify sensors for renewable energy equipment. The learner may also be a graduate student or corporate research engineer assigned to gather process or sensor data.

Syllabus

Course 1: Electric Vehicle Sensors
Course 2: Wind Turbine Sensors
Course 3: Solar Power Sensors

Courses

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1 day 16 hours 48 minutes
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“Electric Vehicle Sensors” starts with a discussion on how electric vehicles work differently from gasoline or diesel fuel powered vehicles and the major types of electric vehicles. It then moves to the unique components of full electric and hybrid electric vehicles, and how in-vehicle and external battery charging systems work. We reference all the sensors that are used for in-vehicle and outside unique components. Then we do a deep dive into how each of these sensors work.
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1 day 6 hours 34 minutes
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“Wind Turbine Sensors” starts with a discussion on how wind turbines generate energy and the major parts of a wind turbine. It then moves to a deep dive on the mechanical components (turbine blades, hub assembly, gearbox. yaw drive, brakes) and the sensors that monitor these components. Then we discuss the generator and transformer and sensors for these electrical components. Finally, we discuss the sensors that measure the wind speed and sensors that optimize electrical power. Wind Turbine Sensors can also be taken for academic credit as ECEA 5350, part of CU Boulder’s Master of Science in Electrical Engineering.
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1 day 3 hours 28 minutes
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Solar Power Sensors starts with a discussion on how solar panels generate electrical energy. It then moves to the electronic components: silicon solar cells, perovskite cells, photovoltaic manufacturing methods and the power generation components: sun trackers, solar inverters, solar battery storage. We reference sensors used to monitor electronics and power generation components, as well as sensors that that are essential for maximizing solar panel efficiency. Solar Sensors can also be taken for academic credit as ECEA 5351, part of CU Boulder’s Master of Science in Electrical Engineering.