Describe what you did during your internship:

During my internship with ER-63, I focused on supporting the development of accurate models and control methods for a BLDC motor applied to an inertial load simulator. I researched and implemented data acquisition methods using a Magtrol DSP7001 controller paired with an HD-715 dynamometer, enabling precise measurement of motor behavior. Using LabVIEW and MATLAB, I derived key motor parameters including rotor inertia, viscous friction, and Coulomb friction, which supported the building high-fidelity Simulink models. I also supported deploying field-oriented control (FOC) on the BLDC motor through the Arduino SimpleFOC library, allowing for improved torque control and motor efficiency. Additionally, I designed and tested a physics-based soft-stop safety feature in Simulink and created a quick-start guide to streamline future use of the inertial load simulator.

Did you achieve your goals?

All of my objectives were completed over the course of the internship. I established reliable DAQ methods, extracted accurate motor parameters, and implemented FOC, supporting the creation of validated Simulink models and improved motor control. These outcomes advanced ER-63’s testing capabilities and provided practical tools for future users.

Describe positive lessons learned:

My favorite part of being with NASA has been the contagious amount of passion circling around. Everyone has an open door and are ready to share their work with you. Interning with NASA is much deeper then just coming into work for eight hours every day to complete a few tasks. There is purpose and meaning behind work given to interns and it is an incredibly cool opportunity to be a part of. I have learned endless amounts of information, as shared in this report, that I have never touched and may not touch in class.

Describe negative lessons learned:

This summer has presented trialing times to NASA as an entirety, this has forced some uneasy and uncertain situations. As an intern it has been challenging to unfold the chances of returning.