Motor-mounted control module

2 March 2011 Power Electronics / Power Management

STMicroelectronics has unveiled a customisable high-end, motor-control module that is small enough to mount directly on the motor, in addition to providing connection via industrial Ethernet. It aims to enable faster delivery of elegant, cost-effective industrial solutions such as multi-axis robotics, conveyors, packaging machines and process automation equipment.

The SPIMD20 can drive brushless 3-phase motors up to 2 kW and is ideal for various industrial applications. Developed in conjunction with motion control specialist Robox, the module combines ST’s high-performance semiconductor technologies, including 1200 V/40 A IGBT power switches and the TD352 gate driver. Two STM32 microcontrollers provide a powerful processing engine for motor control and networking functions. A real-time communication interface supporting protocols such as EtherCAT and CANopen DS402 is provided. Basic firmware supporting network connectivity and featuring PWM driving, current loop and speed loop execution synchronised to the fieldbus is also available.

The module supports full customisation of firmware and logic, giving designers full control over the motor control algorithm and type of Ethernet fieldbus. By mounting the 165 x 60 x 26 mm module on the motor, designers can distribute control for multiple motors. This saves centralising logic and power functions in a rack, thereby reducing cabling, simplifying installation, promoting scalability and delivering advantages in the field such as enhanced ­reliability and easier maintenance.

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