Ahmad Darabi

PhD Student

Concordia University

Montreal, Quebec

08.2021 - Current

Successfully cleared PhD coursework, comprehensive exam, and dissertation proposal with excellent performance.
Instructor for the Power Electronics (ELEC 433) laboratory and designated Program on Duty (PoD) for the Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) course (ELEC 439/6471), as well as the Control Motor Drive course (ELEC 440/6491).
Developed an infrastructure for research projects by establishing a power electronics laboratory.
Conducted 9-month research project with MAGNA International company, utilizing Ansys Maxwell software to analyze electric motor dynamics.
Proficient in multiple programming languages including Matlab and C, utilized for TI programming needs. Employed JavaScript programming to enhance the performance of the TMS320f28379d microprocessor via computer-debug server scripting (DSS) connection, as the processor has only 2 independent CPUs with a clock frequency of 200MHz.
Multiple books were studied for power electronics circuit design and multilayer PCB prototyping, with a focus on mitigating ground bounce, noise, and cross-talk issues. User manual for TI chips was reviewed in depth in order to utilize processor modules. Additionally, software applications such as Code Composer Studio, KiCad, Matlab, etc., were used for power electronics circuit design and PCB layout drawing, and microprocessor programming.
Achieved comprehensive understanding and mastery of Texas Instruments (TI) microprocessors by effectively utilizing their capabilities for optimum performance in multiple real-time projects. Employed features such as CPU usage optimization, RS485 serial communication integration, flash programming proficiency as well as precise sensing techniques and accurate signal generation.
Achieved remarkable approach to PCB board design rules for ultra-fast applications and accomplished PCB design for Gallium Nitride (GaN) inverter.
A three-phase custom design IGBT inverter with optimized component selection and PCB layout was realized for electric motor drive and renewable energy systems. The fabrication process, encompassing component placement, soldering, and thorough debugging, was carried out at the Concordia University laboratory.
Several approaches for current and high-voltage sensing, as well as high-voltage protection, were practically fabricated and tested. Experimental evaluations identified the design structures with the highest precision. The fabrication process, which included component placement, soldering, and comprehensive debugging, was conducted at the Concordia University laboratory.
Developed two distinct electric motor/generator configurations at Concordia University lab.
Published two out of three conference papers as the primary author during my PhD program.
Extensive simulations were conducted on model-free predictive control (MFPC) of AC synchronous machines to facilitate a smooth transition from conventional field-oriented control (FOC) to MFPC. These simulations also focused on achieving reductions in current and torque under MFPC operating conditions.
At present, all experimental setups are functioning optimally. The subsequent step toward my PhD degree involves translating the previously simulated model-free predictive control (MFPC) work into practical implementation, with the aim of documenting and publishing the forthcoming achievements.
Recently initiated collaboration with Veolia company, focusing on researching and developing efficient methods for ozone generation aimed at commercialization.