"I was pleasantly surprised to receive the award, and I really appreciate this kind of feedback. After successfully completing my final exams, it was a very nice way to conclude my studies," says Karel Bednář.
The thesis focuses on the design, implementation, and experimental validation of a sensor for the non-invasive diagnosis of induction motors, with a particular focus on detecting inter-turn short circuits in stator windings. The diagnostic method is based on spectral analysis of the axial component of the motor's stray magnetic field, which changes when the electromagnetic symmetry of the machine is disrupted.

Karel designed and built a sensor in the form of an air-core induction coil integrated into a 3D-printed structure. Its properties were then experimentally verified on an induction motor with a simulated inter-turn short circuit. The results demonstrated significant changes in the frequency spectrum when the motor fault occurred. The sensor will also be used in laboratory exercises for the Electrical Equipment Diagnostics course.

"As part of his thesis, Karel designed a coil sensor for measuring the axial component of the motor's stray magnetic flux. He then built and tested the sensor in the laboratory. The results clearly demonstrated that the sensor works as intended. By designing and building a functional sensor, the student fully demonstrated his ability to apply his theoretical knowledge in practice," says the thesis supervisor, Jan Fulneček.
Karel Bednář will continue building on the experience gained during his studies in his professional career. In September, he will join the ABB Operations Center in Ostrava, where he has been working as a part-time employee over the past year.

"Together with two of my classmates, I will join the Power Systems team, where we will work on various projects. I'm curious to see what opportunities this will bring," says Karel.