Software update system, mechanical system development assistance service method, and program product

Abstract

The present invention provides a system configured to communicate with an inverter having a memory for storing operating software for an electric motor, comprising: a collection device that collects operating data that sequentially represents the operating status of a first electric motor when the inverter operates the first electric motor; an analysis device that analyzes the operating status of the first electric motor based on the collected operating data; a selection device that, based on the analysis results of the analysis device, selects a second electric motor that has lower performance than the first electric motor in at least one characteristic and is a backward compatible product of the first electric motor; and an updating device that updates the operating software stored in the memory so that the first electric motor can operate in a manner that simulates the characteristics of the second electric motor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a software update system suitable for the development of mechanical systems including electric motors and inverters, a mechanical system development support service method, and a program for using it. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, electrification with energy conservation in mind has been progressing in mechanical systems, using electric motors and inverters as their power sources. Against this backdrop, electric motors are being manufactured and developed by a wide variety of companies, with diverse applications and output capacity ranges.

[0003] On the other hand, the selection of electric motors in the development of mechanical systems is based on a comprehensive evaluation, considering not only energy-saving performance but also various performance characteristics such as small size, low noise, and high response, as well as price. This comprehensive evaluation is preferably obtained through experimental operation of various electric motors in actual equipment.

[0004] However, in practice, when installing electric motors into actual mechanical systems, individual adjustments may be required due to differences in motor characteristics or structure. Furthermore, because electric motors are often internally structured within mechanical systems, replacing them can be difficult. Therefore, comparative evaluations of electric motors using actual equipment frequently reduce the development efficiency of mechanical systems. Consequently, mechanical system developers are forced to limit the range of electric motor candidates they can use. Additionally, electric motor suppliers face limitations in their opportunities to evaluate various electric motors, including new products.

[0005] As prior art, there is the technology described in Patent Document 1. In this patent document, the technology described is as follows: when the product model (or model number) of the electric motor is entered, a group of electric motor products that can replace the electric motor are introduced, and the differences between the original electric motor and the electric motor that can be replaced are displayed.

[0006] Existing technical documents

[0007] Patent documents

[0008] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. WO2013 / 145296 Summary of the Invention

[0009] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0010] However, the technology described in Patent Document 1 only briefly introduces alternative products. Therefore, it is not useful when developing new mechanical systems, and the aforementioned problem remains unresolved. Specifically, it is cumbersome for mechanical system developers to replace the electric motor within the mechanical system, forcing them to limit the selection of electric motors to a limited number of types. Consequently, it is difficult to increase the development speed of mechanical systems that include both electric motors and inverters.

[0011] Therefore, the present invention provides a system that can virtually test and evaluate the operation of a motor without actually replacing the motor.

[0012] Technical solutions for solving the problem

[0013] A brief summary of representative inventions disclosed in this application is provided below.

[0014] A representative embodiment of the software update system of the present invention is configured to communicate with an inverter having a memory for storing operating software for a motor, comprising: a collection device that collects operating data that sequentially represents the operating status of the first motor when the inverter has operated the first motor; an analysis device that analyzes the operating status of the first motor based on the operating data collected by the collection device; a selection device that, based on the analysis results of the analysis device, selects a motor that has lower performance than the first motor in at least one characteristic and is a backward compatible motor of the first motor as a second motor; and an update device that updates the operating software stored in the memory so that the first motor can operate in a manner that simulates the characteristics of the second motor.

[0015] The effects of the invention

[0016] The effects obtained by means of representative inventions disclosed in this application are briefly described below.

[0017] According to a representative embodiment of the present invention, the operation of a motor can be virtually tested and evaluated without actually replacing the motor.

[0018] Other issues, structures, and effects not described above will be explained through the following description of the implementation methods. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of an electric motor simulation system according to one embodiment of this specification.

[0020] Figure 2 This is a diagram representing a server motor simulation system using functional modules.

[0021] Figure 3This is a flowchart illustrating how auxiliary services for mechanical system development are used.

[0022] Figure 4 This is an example of a display screen on an operating terminal operated by an equipment manufacturer.

[0023] Figure 5 This is an example of a screen displaying a simulated electric motor.

[0024] Figure 6 This is an example of adjusting the screen.

[0025] Figure 7 This is an example of a simulation result display screen.

[0026] Figure 8 It is a flowchart that roughly represents the process of simulating an electric motor.

[0027] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the screening / suggestion process for simulated motor candidates.

[0028] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the adjustment process for running software.

[0029] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of how the output of running software is processed.

[0030] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing the structure of the motor control system in an inverter. Detailed Implementation

[0031] (Implementation Method 1)

[0032] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The embodiments described below are examples for implementing the present invention and do not limit the technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for constituent elements having the same function, and repeated descriptions are omitted except where particularly necessary.

[0033] As an embodiment of the present invention, an electric motor simulation system including the software update system of this specification and a mechanical system development auxiliary service using the system will be described.

[0034] <Overview of Mechanical System Development Support Services>

[0035] First, an overview of the auxiliary services for mechanical system development will be provided.

[0036] In this service, the service provider provides the mechanical system developer (hereinafter referred to as the equipment manufacturer) with a high-specification electric motor (hereinafter referred to as the probe motor) with multiple backward compatibility options and an inverter for driving it.

[0037] Equipment manufacturers use the probe motor and inverter to build a testbed (hereafter sometimes simply referred to as the testbed) for their self-developed mechanical systems and make them work.

[0038] The motor simulation system collects and analyzes the time-series data, i.e., the operating data, of the testing machine's working state. Based on the analysis results, it recommends at least one candidate motor as a backward compatible product for the test motor.

[0039] The equipment manufacturer specifies the required motor candidate from the suggested motor candidates. The motor simulation system updates the inverter's operating software to make the probe motor simulate the specified motor candidate in a way that approximates the characteristics of the motor candidate. The equipment manufacturer uses the inverter with the updated operating software to operate the test machine and perform evaluation. The equipment manufacturer repeatedly re-specifies the motor candidate, updates the operating software, and operates the test machine as needed to determine the motor used in the mechanical system of the product.

[0040] Therefore, equipment manufacturers can virtually mount and evaluate the required motor candidates without actually mounting them in the testing machine, thus improving the quality and speed of mechanical system development. For motor suppliers, the opportunity to consider multiple motors, including those for new products, can be expected to increase the chances of purchasing new motors or boost sales.

[0041] For service providers, being able to operate a business that generates service fees or commissions from the use of services allows them to expect an increase in users and thus increase sales due to the convenience of their services.

[0042] <Structure of the Electric Motor Simulation System>

[0043] An explanation is given of an electric motor simulation system according to one embodiment of the present invention and of a person who accesses and uses the system.

[0044] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of an electric motor simulation system according to one embodiment of this specification. Additionally, Figure 1 For convenience, the personnel who access the electric motor simulation system are also shown in the image.

[0045] The electric motor simulation system 100 can be accessed by the equipment manufacturer 103, the electric motor provider 104, and the service provider 105.

[0046] Equipment manufacturer 103 is a business entity that develops mechanical systems using electric motors and inverters. Equipment manufacturer 103 is, for example, a manufacturer that designs, manufactures, and sells industrial mechanical systems. Additionally, equipment manufacturer 103 is a user of auxiliary services for the development of mechanical systems using the electric motor simulation system 100.

[0047] Electric motor provider 104 is a business entity that provides electric motors that can be installed in mechanical systems. Electric motor provider 104 may be, for example, an electric motor manufacturer that manufactures, sells, or leases electric motors.

[0048] Service provider 105 is an entity that operates, provides auxiliary services for the development of mechanical systems using the electric motor simulation system 100, and manages the system. Alternatively, service provider 105 may also be an inverter manufacturer that manufactures, sells, or leases inverters. Furthermore, service provider 105 may be the same entity as electric motor provider 104.

[0049] In this embodiment, the equipment manufacturer 103 and the electric motor provider 104 accelerate the development of the mechanical system by mutually applying the electric motor simulation system 100 as an information communication platform.

[0050] like Figure 1 As shown, the motor simulation system 100 includes a server (software update system) 1, an inverter (first inverter) 2, a detection motor (first motor) 3, a controller 4, operation terminals 6A and 6B, and a network 7. Furthermore, operation terminal 6A is located on the equipment manufacturer's side 103, and operation terminal 6B is located on the motor provider's side 104.

[0051] Server 1, controller 4, and operator terminals 6A and 6B are communicatively connected via network 7 in a manner that allows them to interactively send and receive data. For example, operator terminals 6A and 6B can be used to operate or monitor server 1 and controller 4, or controller 4 can send the operating status of inverter 2 to server 1 or operator terminals 6A and 6B.

[0052] Network 7 is a wide area communication network, implemented entirely through wired, wireless, or a combination thereof. Network 7 may be, for example, an industrial network, Ethernet, or the Internet. Furthermore, when communicating wirelessly with network 7, an access point 8 designed according to communication protocols such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth (registered trademark) is installed at the connection point to network 7. Access point 8 may carry antenna circuitry or drivers suitable for connecting devices such as controller 4 or operating terminals 6A, 6B, etc.

[0053] Alternatively, inverter 2 can also be directly connected to network 7 without going through controller 4.

[0054] Server 1 is an example of the software update system described in this manual, such as a computer server.

[0055] Server 1 includes a processor 11, a memory 12, a storage 13, and an interface 14. Server 1 functions as various functional modules by executing prescribed programs stored in the storage 13 using the processor 11 and the memory 12. Additionally, server 1 uses the interface 14 to send and receive data with external devices. The storage 13 is, for example, a magnetic storage device such as a hard disk, or a semiconductor storage device. Details of the functions of server 1 are described later.

[0056] The operating terminals 6A and 6B are, for example, desktop personal computers, laptop personal computers, tablet terminals, smartphones, and other terminal devices. Each of the operating terminals 6A and 6B has an operating unit that receives operations or inputs from the operator and a display unit that displays various information or images.

[0057] Inverter 2 operates in a manner that makes the feedback state of the probe motor 3 consistent with any command value received from controller 4. Inverter 2 has a storage unit (storage) 2m, which stores the operating software for driving the probe motor 3.

[0058] Additionally, inverter 2 receives operating data from the sensing motor 3 and stores it in storage unit 2m. Inverter 2 is, for example, a servo amplifier or a motor driver.

[0059] The operating software is a program that executes the control system program to make the motor run, which is implemented by the arithmetic processing unit built into the inverter. The operating software includes, for example, parameters or operational filters used in the arithmetic control circuit that process command signals from controller 4. For more details on the operating software, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 12 The internal control system of inverter 2 will be explained again.

[0060] The detection motor 3 is powered by the AC power supplied by the inverter 2 to perform mechanical work. The detection motor 3 is, for example, a servo motor or a stepper motor.

[0061] The controller 4 sends command signals to the inverter 2 in order to enable the detection motor 3 to perform the required actions. In addition, the controller 4 also serves as an interface for writing operating software into the storage unit 2m of the inverter 2.

[0062] In this embodiment, the inverter 2, the sensing motor 3, and the controller 4 form a mechanical system 5 for achieving the required purpose. Generally, for a motor constituting a mechanical system, a unit that transmits mechanical power and a load device that consumes power are connected, but these are not shown in the figure here.

[0063] Mechanical system 5 is, for example, a system for manufacturing, processing, and transporting products or components in a manufacturing plant, or a system for moving goods in a merchandise management warehouse. Mechanical system 5 internally includes a combination of one or more detection motors 3 and inverters 2. In this embodiment, a structure with multiple such combinations is used, specifically a structure with a detection motor group 3G and an inverter group 2G. With multiple combinations of detection motors 3 and inverters 2, a smaller number of controllers 4 can be used for unified management.

[0064] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the probe motor 3 is a very high-specification model among various motors, for example, a motor equivalent to the highest-grade model provided by the motor supplier 104. The probe motor 3 is, for example, a model with a large output capacity such as maximum speed or maximum torque, excellent speed-to-torque characteristics (hereinafter referred to as NT characteristics), quiet operation, high responsiveness, small size, and space-saving design. However, the probe motor 3 may be not just one type, but multiple types may be prepared.

[0065] <Server Functions>

[0066] Next, the functions of server 1 will be explained. Figure 2 This diagram illustrates the motor simulation system of server 1, represented by functional modules. As described above, each functional module in server 1 is implemented by server 1 executing a predefined program stored in storage 13.

[0067] like Figure 2 As shown, server 1 has an initial setting unit 10, an operation data collection unit (collection device) 20, a motor analysis unit (analysis device) 21, a vibration detection unit (analysis device) 22, a motor database (storage device) 30, a database update unit 31, a motor candidate extraction unit (selection device, filtering device, display device, selection device) 40, an adjustment unit (update device) 50, a mechanism system modeling unit (analysis device) 60, a motor simulation setting output unit (update device) 70, and a simulation operation setting unit (selection device, update device, condition acceptance device, output device) 80 as functional modules.

[0068] The initial setup unit 10 functions as an interface to input information about the mechanical system 5 used in the evaluation by the equipment manufacturer 103, the inverter 2 installed in the mechanical system 5, the probe motor 3, and the controller 4 before the motor simulation evaluation. This information may include, for example, the model, year, manufacturing number, type or purpose of the machinery connected to the probe motor 3, and the connection method of each device.

[0069] The initial setting unit 10 can also perform detailed settings for the communication conditions between the controller 4 and the server 1, and user settings such as whether to disclose the results information of the motor simulation system 100 to the motor provider 104, as needed.

[0070] The initial setting unit 10 is mainly operated by the equipment manufacturer 103 using the operation terminal 6A to input information, but it can also be assisted by the service provider 105.

[0071] The operation data collection unit 20 collects operation data 3d. In this embodiment, operation data 3d is equivalent to so-called log data. Operation data 3d includes, for example, timing data of the operation information of each device operating inside the mechanical system 5, particularly the measurement information of the inverter 2 and the probe motor 3. As the measurement information of the probe motor 3, for example, the rotation angle of the motor shaft, speed, motor voltage, motor current, motor output torque, motor load, motor temperature, and whether an error has occurred can be considered.

[0072] The operation data collection unit 20 can be configured using a database. Furthermore, the operation data collection unit 20 can automatically collect 3D operation data.

[0073] In this embodiment, the operating data 3d is temporarily recorded in the storage unit 2m of the inverter 2. The operating data collection unit 20 is connected to the storage unit 2m of the inverter 2 via the network 7 and the controller 4, and receives the operating data 3d recorded in the storage unit 2m. Alternatively, the operating data 3d may not be recorded in the storage unit 2m, but may be collected directly by the operating data collection unit 20.

[0074] The electric motor database 30 stores the specifications of various electric motors provided by the electric motor provider 104 as electric motor information 30m.

[0075] In this embodiment, the motor database 30 stores motor information 30m for multiple motors, including the detection motor 3 and motor groups equivalent to its backward compatibility, other detection motors different from the detection motor 3 and motor groups equivalent to its backward compatibility.

[0076] The 30m motor information includes information that associates motor identification information with motor performance information. Motor identification information includes, for example, manufacturer name, product name, model, model number, and year. Motor performance information includes, for example, information defined by various industry standards, such as nominal values, continuous ratings, short-time ratings, repeated ratings, instantaneous maximum values, and maximum values, taking into account operating conditions. Specific examples include the type of motor (induction or synchronous), the compatible type of inverter (switching or linear), dimensions / weight / appearance image, number of phases / poles / slots / distribution / concentrated winding type, core structure, voltage, current, ambient temperature, output / efficiency / slip characteristics, speed, torque constant / reactance characteristics, winding resistance, inductance, moment of inertia, speed ripple characteristics, cogging characteristics, ambient temperature derating, setting condition derating, international standards met, component materials, service life, body life, vacuum / waterproof / oil-proof / chemical-resistant support, type / model of encoder / bearing / gearbox / built-in brake, leakage current characteristics, and demagnetization characteristics. In addition, the motor performance information includes, for example, information on upward compatible and backward compatible products.

[0077] Furthermore, in the mechanical system development support services based on the electric motor simulation system 100, the reliability of the electric motor information registered in the electric motor database 30 has a significant impact on the quality of the service. Therefore, especially regarding the security of electric motor information, it is sufficient to strictly regulate and apply management policies.

[0078] Furthermore, the motor provider 104 can be a single business entity or multiple different business entities. In the case where the motor provider 104 is multiple business entities, a large amount of motor information provided by each motor manufacturer is stored in the motor database 30.

[0079] The database update unit 31 provides an interface for maintaining the electric motor database 30.

[0080] The database update unit 31 can, for example, add motor information 30m corresponding to newly provided motors, or delete motor information 30m corresponding to deactivated motors. Furthermore, the database update unit 31 can set whether to accept motor simulation results.

[0081] In the database update unit 31, the main management function handles the input of motor information 30m into the motor database 30 by the motor provider 104 using the operation terminal 6B. However, it is also possible for the service provider 105 to assist with such input. Furthermore, updates to the motor information 30m can be implemented in the database update unit 31 using a web application or similar means, or they can be performed automatically. Alternatively, they can be performed through any input operation by the service provider 105.

[0082] In addition, the database update unit 31 can also refer to other databases that store various information about the motor, and automatically update the motor information accordingly if changes occur.

[0083] The motor simulation setting output unit 70 saves the operating software 2s in the storage unit 2m of the inverter 2, or updates the saved operating software 2s. That is, the motor simulation setting output unit 70 is an interface for outputting and setting (loading) the operating software 2s to the storage unit 2m of the inverter 2.

[0084] In this embodiment, the motor simulation setting output unit 70 executes the output and setting of the specified operating software 2s on the designated inverter 2 according to the execution instructions of the equipment manufacturer 103.

[0085] The simulation operation setting unit 80 serves as an interface for setting various settings for simulating motor candidates using the motor simulation system 100, selecting the simulated motor, and adjusting (editing) the inverter 2's operating software 2s. In other words, the simulation operation setting unit 80 is the interface through which the equipment manufacturer 103 inputs data from the operation terminal 6A and uses the mechanical system development support services described in this manual.

[0086] Furthermore, when the simulation operation setting unit 80 adjusts the operating software 2s of the inverter 2, it accepts settings such as whether to reduce the vibration, reproduce the vibration, or consider either when the vibration of the mechanical system 5 or the detection motor 3 is detected in the vibration detection unit 22. Therefore, it can not only handle situations where harmful vibrations are eliminated, but also situations where vibration is considered an advantage, and situations where the impact of vibration needs to be evaluated.

[0087] The functional modules described above are the interface functional modules in server 1 corresponding to network 7, which involve the connection with network 7.

[0088] In addition, in this embodiment, such as Figure 1 or Figure 2 As shown, data transmission and reception between server 1 and inverter 2 is relayed through controller 4, but this method is not limited to this. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the protocols before and after the relay can be arbitrary. Additionally, controller 4 can perform arbitrary security enhancements, compression, filtering, and other data processing on the transmitted and received data.

[0089] Next, the functional modules that perform calculations internally on server 1 will be explained.

[0090] The motor analysis unit 21 determines the actual results of the relationship between the rotational angle position and speed of the detection motor 3, the temperature rise mode, etc., based on the timing data of the rotational angle position and speed of the detection motor 3 collected and accumulated in the operation data collection unit 20.

[0091] The vibration detection unit 22 detects and determines whether the operating mechanical system 5 vibrates, the amplitude of the vibration, the period of the vibration, etc., based on the timing data of the rotation angle position and speed of the detection motor 3 accumulated in the operation data collection unit 20.

[0092] The system modeling unit 60 uses the operating data accumulated in the operating data collection unit 20, the setting information (including the operating software) from the initial setting unit 10, and the detection results from the motor analysis unit 21 and the vibration detection unit 22 to determine the physical model of the transmission unit or load characteristics within the mechanical system 5 connected to each motor. Then, using the determined physical model, a numerical analysis model used in the "adjustment of the operating software" described later is generated. This allows for the selection of motors as simulation objects based on the load characteristics derived through analysis, and the selection of more suitable motor candidates can be expected.

[0093] The system modeling unit 60 performs numerical analysis on the generated numerical analysis model, providing motor information 30m representing the characteristics of the motor and a load pattern obtained from the test machine's operating data 3d. As a result of this numerical analysis, i.e., simulation, it can predict the operation of the mechanical system 5 when the motor is applied. This operation includes whether vibration occurs, the magnitude or amplitude of vibration, the period of vibration, the time variation of power consumption, and the time variation of the temperature of the motor or mechanical system 5. Furthermore, the load pattern used in the numerical analysis can be extracted from the operating data 3d stored in the operating data collection unit 20.

[0094] The motor candidate extraction unit 40 extracts candidate motors (second motors) from a plurality of motors represented by motor information groups stored in the motor database 30 by filtering them in a manner that retains motors suitable for the filtering conditions input to the simulation operation setting unit 80. The motor candidate extraction unit 40 sends the information of the extracted candidate motors to the simulation operation setting unit 80. The simulation operation setting unit 80 displays its interface screen on the display unit of the operation terminal 6A located on the equipment manufacturer 103 side, and identifies the motor selected by the operator on the interface screen as the simulation target motor.

[0095] Additionally, the motor candidate extraction unit 40 sends a signal to the simulation operation setting unit 80 to display the extracted motor candidates on the display unit of the operation terminal 6A. The equipment manufacturer 103 confirms the motor candidates displayed on the display unit of the operation terminal 6A and selects one from the motor candidates as the simulation target motor. The simulation operation setting unit 80 recognizes this selection.

[0096] The adjustment unit 50 refers to the information of the simulated target motor identified by the motor candidate extraction unit 40 in the motor database 30, and adjusts at least one of the algorithms and parameters included in the operation software 2s in a way that makes the operating characteristics obtained by combining the inverter 2 and the probe motor 3 close to the operating characteristics obtained by combining the inverter 2 and the simulated target motor. During this adjustment, the equipment manufacturer 103 can specify arbitrary adjustment conditions using the simulation operation setting unit 80 and refer to the results of numerical analysis simulations applied to the physical model constructed by the mechanism system modeling unit 60.

[0097] Specifically, the selection range of each parameter of inverter 2 or the convergence judgment condition of the simulation is used as the adjustment condition input. The adjustment unit 50 performs numerical analysis simulation using any parameter set within the input range. The adjustment unit 50 scans the parameter set repeatedly until the input convergence judgment condition is met, while repeatedly performing numerical analysis simulation.

[0098] Furthermore, in application, as adjustment conditions, information obtained based on the analysis results of the motor analysis unit 21 and the detection results of the vibration detection unit 22 can be used to set conditions such as making the vibration, motor temperature, or NT characteristics consistent with past data, or reducing specified vibration. Finally, the operating software 2s, including the parameter set for obtaining convergence judgment, is transmitted to the inverter 2 via the motor simulation setting output unit 70.

[0099] The series of operations of this service are performed by operation terminals 6A and 6B. The number of operation terminals 6A and 6B increases or decreases accordingly with the number of users of this service, but the number of terminals does not affect the essence of this specification. Server 1 can be built by centrally or distributedly configuring various functions on cloud servers at multiple sites, or it can be built according to the maximum number of terminals that server 1 and network 7 can access.

[0100] Mechanical System Development Support Services

[0101] Next, the development support services for mechanical systems using the electric motor simulation system 100 will be explained. Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating how auxiliary services for mechanical system development are used.

[0102] This service is primarily established as an intermediary between equipment manufacturers 103 who develop and manufacture mechanical systems using electric motors and inverters, and electric motor providers 104 who manufacture, sell, or lease electric motors. The use of the service is generally divided into four stages.

[0103] First, the first phase PH1 is the opportunity for the motor provider 104 to register the motors it provides to the motor database 30 of this service. That is, this is the opportunity for the motor provider 104 to store the motor information 30m corresponding to each motor that can be provided as a commodity in the motor database 30.

[0104] Here, the motor provider 104 uses the operation terminal 6B, which displays the interface screen of the database update unit 31, to input motor information 30m.

[0105] Alternatively, as another use case, the motor provider 104 could provide a physical sample of the motor to the service provider 105, and the service provider 105 could evaluate the physical sample and generate evaluation data for various items equivalent to motor information. Alternatively, instead of the motor provider 104 operating the operating terminal 6B to register the motor information, the motor provider 104 could notify the service provider 105 of the motor information in writing or other forms, and the service provider 105 could digitize the motor information based on the written materials and register it in the motor database 30.

[0106] In this service, the name of the motor provider 104 and the motor product name are displayed in the extracted motor candidate results, thereby achieving an advertising effect for the motor to the equipment manufacturer 103. Therefore, a business model in which the motor provider 104 pays a service usage fee or a sample evaluation commission to the service provider 105 can be considered.

[0107] Next, in the second phase PH2, equipment manufacturer 103 has the opportunity to begin developing mechanical system 5. Here, equipment manufacturer 103 purchases the electric motor and inverter to be installed in the test machine of mechanical system 5.

[0108] As described above, this service is established through the collaboration between inverter 2 and server 1. Therefore, the inverter 2 used in the second phase PH2 is a model equipped with an interface recognized by service provider 105.

[0109] Therefore, the service provider 105 may supervise or undertake the development and manufacture of the inverter 2 used in the second phase PH2. Alternatively, an inverter or motor that has been proven to pass the prescribed test process may be used. Furthermore, the motor provided in the second phase PH2 is set as a test-specific motor (referred to as a probe motor in this embodiment) whose performance has been fully determined in advance. In addition, it is assumed that the probe motor 3 has the performance / characteristics to simulate the performance / characteristics of multiple motor groups that meet the design requirements of the equipment manufacturer 103 during the motor simulation of this service. The probe motor 3 also needs to meet the size requirements of the mechanical system testing machine, so it is generally a high-cost motor using materials with high output density.

[0110] When starting to use this service, the equipment manufacturer 103 uses the operation terminal 6A, which displays the interface screen of the initial setup unit 10, to input necessary initial settings such as information about the probe motor 3 to the server 1. Alternatively, the initial setup may be performed by the service provider 105 instead of the equipment manufacturer 103.

[0111] In the second phase, PH2, equipment manufacturer 103 purchases inverter 2 and probe motor 3 for use in the testing machine. Here, a business model could be considered whereby equipment manufacturer 103 pays a usage fee to service provider 105, which includes the initial setup cost of the service, when purchasing inverter 2.

[0112] Alternatively, if the inverter 2 is provided by service provider 105, the service usage fee can be included in advance in the cost of purchasing or leasing the inverter 2.

[0113] Furthermore, the second phase, PH2, also presents an opportunity to procure inverter 2 and probe motor 3 for the testing machine. As mentioned above, probe motor 3 tends to be expensive. Therefore, the provision of inverter 2 and probe motor 3 could be a purchase contract with a fixed term, such as a lease / rental agreement. Alternatively, the provision could be based on a performance-based payment (subscription) contract, where the payment is based on the motor's revolutions as a result of operation.

[0114] Next, the third phase, PH3, is an opportunity for equipment manufacturer 103 to use this service and perform the development of mechanical system 5 while making the testing machine of mechanical system 5 operational.

[0115] The equipment manufacturer 103 uses an operating terminal 6A that displays the interface screen of the simulation operation setting unit 80 to input the necessary motor simulation settings to the server 1. The equipment manufacturer 103 makes the probe motor 3 mounted in the testing machine operate in a manner that simulates the motor characteristics of the required motor, thereby making the testing machine work. Therefore, the equipment manufacturer 103 can virtually mount the required motor in the testing machine and make it work without actually mounting it in the testing machine. That is, the equipment manufacturer 103 can develop the mechanical system 5 based on the simulation results of the probe motor 3 and select the candidate motor for use in productization.

[0116] Alternatively, after selecting a candidate motor for productization, equipment manufacturer 103 can actually purchase a motor of the same type as the selected candidate, assemble it in a testing machine, and operate the testing machine for further evaluation. In this case, the motor simulation setting output unit 70 typically outputs different operating software 2s to the storage unit 2m of the inverter 2 connected to the motor, in a manner that enables the motor to operate, compared to the simulation software. This is because, generally speaking, the operating software 2s used to simulate a specific motor when the probe motor 3 is used differs from the operating software 2s used when actually driving that specific motor.

[0117] However, as mentioned above, the probe motor 3 is an expensive motor that prioritizes versatility. Therefore, the motor chosen as the simulation object can be considered a downgraded evaluation of a cheaper, backward-compatible motor that does not require the same performance as the probe motor 3.

[0118] Here, a backward compatible product can be defined as a motor whose performance characteristics are partially or entirely lower than those of the detection motor 3. For example, a backward compatible product may have a narrower range of speed-torque ratings or various degradations at the rotating output end compared to the rated range of the detection motor 3. Additionally, a backward compatible product may also be one that lacks the reduction gear (braking) mechanism included with the detection motor 3, or whose reduction gear mechanism has lower performance compared to the detection motor 3. Furthermore, a backward compatible product may also have a smaller overall size compared to the detection motor 3. This overall size can be defined by including the dimensions of a heat dissipation unit that suppresses heat generation from the main rotating part of the motor.

[0119] Furthermore, in this third stage PH3, when the equipment manufacturer 103 uses the probe motor 3 to perform arbitrary motor simulations, it can also notify the motor provider 104 of the simulation results. Additionally, at this time, a business model could be considered whereby the equipment manufacturer 103 pays a usage fee to the service provider 105, or refunds the usage fee for the database registration information to the motor provider 104, as a subscription.

[0120] Furthermore, in the third stage PH3, the simulation effect of attracting specific motor candidates to be performed can also be represented by images or sounds on the operating terminal 6A of the equipment manufacturer 103. A business model could also be considered where the motor provider 104 pays the service provider 105 an additional fee as an incentive for these promotional effects.

[0121] The fourth stage, PH4, is an opportunity for mechanical manufacturer 103 to procure electric motors and inverters used in the product as part of the process of commercializing mechanical system 5 after completing the development of mechanical system 5.

[0122] That is, the equipment manufacturer 103 uses the motor simulation system 100 to order the product motor, the product inverter, and the operating software used in the inverter from the service provider 105.

[0123] Service provider 105 supplies product inverters to equipment manufacturer 103 in accordance with this order. Alternatively, service provider 105 purchases product motors from motor provider 104 and supplies them to equipment manufacturer 103. Or, service provider 105, on behalf of equipment manufacturer 103, arranges the ordering of product motors from motor provider 104. In this case, the product motors are supplied directly from motor provider 104 to equipment manufacturer 103.

[0124] Then, service provider 105 provides product operating software used in the product inverter to equipment manufacturer 103. As a method of provision, for example, the motor simulation setting output unit 70 can directly output the setting product operating software to the storage unit of the product inverter connected to the product motor. Alternatively, for example, the equipment manufacturer 103 can first download the product operating software from the motor simulation setting output unit 70 to the operation terminal 6A, and then output the setting to the storage unit of the product inverter. Alternatively, the service provider 105 can mail a recording medium containing the product operating software to the equipment manufacturer 103.

[0125] At this point, equipment manufacturer 103 can also apply the use of the motor simulation setting output unit 70 to output / set the product's operating software to the inverter as part of the product's commercialization process. In this case, a business model in which equipment manufacturer 103 pays service provider 105 a commission for setting the product's operating software can be considered.

[0126] In addition, if the service provider 105 has the function of a trading company, it is also possible to consider a way for the service provider 105 to obtain intermediary fees in the commodity circulation of electric motors.

[0127] Furthermore, if, during Phase 2 (PH2), the equipment manufacturer 103 procures the detection motor 3 through means other than purchasing, the detection motor 3 will be returned to the service provider 105 between Phase 3 (PH3) and Phase 4 (PH4). However, the equipment manufacturer 103 may also decide to purchase the detection motor 3 and assetize it after entering Phase 4 (PH4). Alternatively, the equipment manufacturer 103 may purchase the detection motor 3 and assetize it before Phase 4 (PH4).

[0128] <Display screen of the operating terminal>

[0129] Next, an example of the screen displayed on the display unit of the operation terminal 6A operated by the equipment manufacturer 103 will be described. Figure 4 This diagram shows an example of the display screen of the operation terminal 6A operated by the equipment manufacturer 103. The display screen is primarily the interface screen of the motor simulation setting output unit 70.

[0130] The display unit of the operating terminal 6A is envisioned as a personal computer monitor or a touch panel of a mobile terminal. Operators can perform operations by clicking with a mouse, pressing a finger on a specified XY coordinate on the display screen, or entering text into a text box.

[0131] A menu bar 61 is provided at the top of the display screen, listing the interfaces of the initial setting unit 10, the operation data collection unit 20, the simulation operation setting unit 80, and the motor simulation setting output unit 70 as selectable items. Display items other than those on the menu bar 61 can be switched via selection on the menu bar 61. Subsequently, for... Figure 4 The example shown is the interface screen description of the simulation operation setting unit 80, where "simulation operation" is selected in menu bar 61.

[0132] The device structure tree 62 is constructed at the left end of the display screen, the operation guide 64 is constructed at the bottom end of the display screen, and the device details display area 63 is constructed in the center of the right side of the display screen. In the device structure tree 62, the controllers, inverters, motors, and other components that constitute the mechanical system 5 or its testing machine are listed and displayed in a tree-like manner so that the components can be selected individually and their parameters can be edited.

[0133] like Figure 1 As shown, mechanical systems generally employ a hierarchical control structure. That is, a hierarchical control structure with the controller at the top, the inverter in the middle, and the motor as an auxiliary device to the inverter. Therefore, displaying the control structure in a tree-like manner provides a clear understanding of the overall structure.

[0134] The equipment details display area 63 is used, for example, as an area to display detailed information about the inverter or motor by selecting each item. This detailed information may include, for example, the model number or specification table of the inverter or motor.

[0135] Figure 4 The image shows an example of a display when the inverter "Inv-1" and the motor "Motor-1A" are selected.

[0136] like Figure 4 As shown, for example, there is a probe motor information screen 65A displaying information about the probe motor 3 actually installed in the testing machine of mechanical system 5, and a simulated object motor information screen 65B displaying information about the simulated object motor, which is the object of the probe motor 3's simulation characteristics. In the simulated object motor information screen 65B, the characteristics of both the probe motor 3 and the simulated object motor can be displayed comparatively. For example, a two-dimensional display 65C showing the NT characteristics of the motor can be set up to depict the characteristics of the probe motor 3 and the simulated object motor. From this, the likelihood of the simulated object motor's operating range relative to the allowable range of the probe motor 3 can be determined, and the suitability of the selected motor for simulation can be determined.

[0137] In addition, Figure 4 The simulated motor information screen 65B shown includes a drop-down menu 65B1 displaying candidates for simulated motors, a specification parameter table 65B2 for the selected candidate simulated motor, a change / cancel selection button 65B3 for selecting different simulated motors, a filter button 65B4 for navigating to a screen for setting detailed conditions for filtering motor candidates, and a history comparison button 65D for verifying the simulated operation of the selected motor characteristics using the numerical analysis simulation described above.

[0138] However, the motor database 30 stores a wide variety of motor candidates. Therefore, in this embodiment, an interface is provided that can filter simulated motors as candidates based on various criteria. As a result, the equipment manufacturer 103 does not need to investigate the motor information in detail for each one, thus reducing the workload of developing the mechanical system.

[0139] Here, an example of a simulated motor selection screen, which serves as an interface for selecting simulated target motors together with the motor candidate extraction unit 40, will be described.

[0140] Figure 5 This is an example diagram showing the simulated motor selection screen. The simulated motor selection screen 66 includes a mechanism model selection screen 66A, a parameter selection screen 66B, a motor detection screen 66C, and a selection result display screen 66D.

[0141] The mechanism model selection screen 66A mainly consists of checkboxes, allowing users to choose whether to refer to the simulation results obtained from the mechanism system modeling unit 60. When the simulation results are selected as the reference, more detailed selection criteria can be set, such as whether to select models suitable for speed-torque characteristics (NT characteristics), whether to reproduce vibrations occurring in mechanical system 5, whether to allow increased power consumption of the motor compared to the probe motor 3, and whether to allow increased motor temperature compared to the probe motor 3. Alternatively, it can be configured to allow users to select the motor based on the numerical analysis simulation results from the mechanism system modeling unit 60.

[0142] The parameter filtering setting screen 66B consists of checkboxes that allow users to select whether to filter by setting numerical ranges and other restrictions on detailed items of motor information stored in the motor database 30, and column or table input sections that allow users to input upper and lower limit values ​​corresponding to each specification parameter.

[0143] The motor detection screening screen 66C consists of a checkbox that allows you to select whether to extract only the motors that can be simulated based on the type of motor 3, and a drop-down menu that allows you to select the model of the motor 3.

[0144] The filtering results display screen 66D shows the candidate motors obtained from the filtering based on the above filtering conditions in a table format, along with their respective database specifications. Alternatively, the total number of motors selected after filtering can be displayed numerically, and the table display can be set to sort each specification parameter in ascending / descending order. Furthermore, in addition to not displaying motors excluded by filtering, the results can also be communicated to the operator by highlighting the rows or columns of the selected motors.

[0145] The operator can select motors using a mouse or other means in the filtering results display screen 66D, and the selected motors will be reflected in the simulated object motor information screen 65B. Additionally, to address situations where there are many candidates and the operator has difficulty selecting, a function button can be set up for the server 1 to automatically select from the candidate motors.

[0146] At this time, during automatic selection, the candidate motors can be ranked according to the evaluation value of an evaluation function that sets weighted coefficients for each item in the motor database 30, or a priority order considering the aforementioned incentives can be set. Alternatively, the candidate motors can be ranked according to the evaluation value obtained by applying a prescribed evaluation function to the simulation results obtained by the mechanism system modeling unit 60. In addition, by employing structures such as emphasizing parameters that particularly affect the priority order determined by this automatic selection, for example when the service provider 105 introduces any motor to the equipment manufacturer 103, it is helpful to explain the reasons for its selection.

[0147] Next, the adjustment screen, which indicates the status of the software's adjustment process over 2 seconds, will be explained. Figure 6 This is an example of adjusting the screen.

[0148] The work process display screen 67A is configured at the top of the adjustment screen, showing the current progress of the motor simulation. For example, as shown in the figure, text such as "Motor Selection," "Adjustment," and "Output Setting" are set, and the completed steps are colored / highlighted respectively. Alternatively, progress can be emphasized by changing the arrow-shaped display connecting the text from dashed lines to solid lines.

[0149] The adjustment condition setting screen 67B can be displayed in the middle of the adjustment screen. Generally, in mechanical systems, the adjustment of the operating software 2s, including parameters and algorithms, is mostly used specifically for adjusting mechanical vibration. In the case of simulating a new electric motor, we consider not only cases where harmful vibrations are eliminated, but also cases where vibration components are intentionally retained because they are beneficial or to evaluate the effects of vibrations. Therefore, by setting multiple checkboxes in the adjustment condition setting screen 67B, we can set conditions such as whether to limit or reproduce vibrations, and whether the vibration component is low-frequency or high-frequency.

[0150] Furthermore, as a reason for setting multiple frequency bands, the vibration factors of mechanical systems are generally divided into two categories from a control perspective, making it effective to divide the parameters and algorithms of inverter 2 according to each frequency band. Specifically, there are high-frequency vibrations in components with relatively high rigidity, such as ball screws, and low-frequency vibrations remaining in components with relatively low rigidity, such as drive belts or supports. Generally, in inverter control, high-frequency vibrations are stabilized by removing vibration components using notch filters, while low-frequency vibrations can be adjusted using prescribed vibration reduction control parameters. In addition, this adjustment screen can also be configured to pop up by operating a button located near the "Adjustment" display on the upper operation step display screen 67A.

[0151] Set up an adjustment progress display screen 67C at the bottom of the adjustment screen. The adjustment of parameters and algorithms involves various calculation processes, including numerical analysis and simulation, which may take a considerable amount of time depending on convergence conditions. Therefore, it is sufficient to monitor the progress using methods such as bar displays or numerical displays showing predicted completion times.

[0152] At the bottom of the adjustment screen, there is an interrupt button 67D for interrupting the operation and a transfer execution button 67E for executing the transfer of the operating software 2s. Here, the transfer execution button 67E is configured to be active after the prescribed adjustment operation is completed. This allows for more reliable updates to the inverter 2's operating software 2s. Alternatively, it can be configured to display past operating data or the results of numerical analysis simulations using a specified viewer, allowing for comparison of these results.

[0153] Figure 7 This diagram illustrates an example of a simulation results display screen. At the upper left corner of the simulation results display screen, a list display screen 68A shows a list of previously executed simulation data. The execution data 3d is recorded, for example, in binary or CSV format. List display screen 68A is configured to allow selection of desired execution data 3d from the recorded data. Other screens, such as a speed (revolutions per minute)-torque mapping display screen 68B and a time trend display screen 68C, are used to display the execution data 3d in a way that allows comparison with the simulation results. Legends can also be used to compare multiple data points.

[0154] <Flowchart of motor simulation using a motor simulation system>

[0155] Next, the process of motor simulation using the motor simulation system 100 from the first stage PH1 to the fourth stage PH4 will be explained. Figure 8 It is a flowchart that roughly represents the process of simulating an electric motor.

[0156] In step S1, the motor is registered. Specifically, before providing mechanical system development support services, the motor provider 104 uses the operation terminal 6B to input motor information 30m. Correspondingly, the database update unit 31 in the motor simulation system 100 processes this operation by saving the input motor information 30m in the motor database 30. Furthermore, it sequentially adds motor information 30m due to newly registered motors or deletes motor information 30m due to deactivation of existing data.

[0157] In step S2, an application for the provision of the motor and inverter is processed. Specifically, the equipment manufacturer 103 uses the operation terminal 6A to apply for the provision of a probe motor and inverter that it wishes to install in the test machine of its self-developed mechanical system 5. Correspondingly, the simulation operation setting unit 80 sends the application information to the operation terminal of the service provider 105. The service provider 105 accepts the application information and arranges for the provision of the probe motor and inverter to the equipment manufacturer 103. This provision can be either a transfer or a lease.

[0158] Furthermore, if only the inverter 2 has been supplied, the equipment manufacturer 103 can also apply for the supply of only the probe motor 3, and if only the probe motor 3 has been supplied, it can also apply for the supply of only the inverter 2. Additionally, as described later, if the equipment manufacturer 103 wishes to replace the probe motor 3 installed in the testing machine with another type during the development of the mechanical system 5, it can also apply for the supply of other probe motors.

[0159] In step S3, the equipment manufacturer 103 accepts the probe motor and inverter provided in step S2 and installs them in the test machine of the mechanical system 5.

[0160] In addition, if the equipment manufacturer 103 has already purchased or possessed the detection motor 3 and inverter 2 in the past when using the service, steps S2 and S3 can be omitted.

[0161] In step S4, the test machine of mechanical system 5 is operated. Specifically, the equipment manufacturer 103 actually runs the test machine of mechanical system 5, which is equipped with probe motor 3 and inverter 2. In this embodiment, the timing data indicating the status of the operating mechanical system 5 or probe motor 3, i.e., the operation data 3d, is accumulated and stored in the storage unit 2m of inverter 2.

[0162] In step S5, operating data is collected. Specifically, the operating data collection unit 20 processes the operating data 3d stored in the storage unit 2m of the inverter 2. Alternatively, the processing of collecting operating data 3d can also be performed while the test machine is running.

[0163] In step S6, the operating data is analyzed. Specifically, the motor analysis unit 21, the vibration detection unit 22, and the mechanism system modeling unit 60 perform the various analyses or simulations described above based on the collected operating data 3d and the motor information 30m stored in the motor database 30.

[0164] More specifically, the motor analysis unit 21 determines the actual results of the relationship between the rotational angle position and speed of the probe motor 3, the temperature rise mode, etc., based on the timing data of the rotational angle position and speed of the probe motor 3 collected and stored in the operation data collection unit 20.

[0165] The vibration detection unit 22 detects and determines whether the operating mechanical system 5 is vibrating, the amplitude of the vibration, the period of the vibration, etc., based on the timing data of the rotation angle position and speed of the detection motor 3 accumulated in the operation data collection unit 20.

[0166] The mechanism system modeling unit 60 uses the operating data accumulated in the operating data collection unit 20, the setting information and operating software of the initial setting unit 10, the detection results of the motor analysis unit 21 and the vibration detection unit 22, etc., to determine the physical model of the transmission unit or load characteristics in the mechanical system 5 connected to each motor. Then, it uses the determined physical model to generate a numerical analysis model.

[0167] Furthermore, the mechanism system modeling unit 60 performs numerical analysis on each of the backward compatible motors of the probe motor 3, providing motor information 30m representing the characteristics of the motor and load patterns derived from the operating data 3d of the testing machine, based on the aforementioned numerical analysis model. As a result of this numerical analysis, i.e., simulation, the operation of the mechanical system 5 is predicted for each of the backward compatible motors of the probe motor 3 when this motor is applied to the mechanical system 5.

[0168] Furthermore, the mechanism system modeling unit 60 applies a prescribed evaluation function to each simulation result obtained here to calculate an evaluation value. Then, based on the magnitude of the evaluation value, the simulation results are arranged in order. For example, the order is arranged so that the larger the evaluation value, the higher the priority.

[0169] In addition, the mechanism system modeling department 60 evaluates the impact of the differences in characteristics between the probe motor 3 and the candidate simulated motor on the mechanical system 5 or its internal equipment that uses the candidate simulated motor. For example, the impact is evaluated from the perspectives of whether vibration occurs, the magnitude of vibration, temperature, power consumption, and external dimensions.

[0170] Furthermore, in this embodiment, simulations using numerical analysis models were performed on each motor of the backward compatible version of the detection motor 3. However, the same simulations can also be performed on motors other than those of backward compatible versions. Alternatively, simulations using numerical analysis models can be performed only on the candidate motors of the simulated object motors that are ultimately retained after screening the candidate simulated object motors in step 7.

[0171] In step S7, candidate simulated motors are screened and suggested. Specifically, the equipment manufacturer 103 uses the operation terminal 6A to input screening criteria for candidate motors, i.e., candidate simulated motors, which are the objects to be simulated by the probe motor 3. Correspondingly, the simulation operation setting unit 80, based on the input screening criteria and the aforementioned analysis or simulation results, performs screening of candidate simulated motors and makes suggestions. That is, the equipment manufacturer 103 can identify and output the screening results via the operation terminal 6A. Details of the candidate simulated motor screening process in step S7 will be described later.

[0172] In step S8, the simulated target motor is selected. Specifically, the equipment manufacturer 103 selects the desired motor from the selected simulated target motor candidates in the operation terminal 6A. Correspondingly, the simulation operation setting unit 80 determines the simulated target motor to be simulated by the probe motor 3. Furthermore, the simulation operation setting unit 80 can also send a notification to the motor provider 104, the supplier of the determined simulated target motor, indicating that the simulated target motor has been selected. The motor provider 104 can then know which motor it supplied has been selected by the equipment manufacturer 103 through this notification, and can anticipate its application in future sales strategies, etc.

[0173] In step S9, the operating software is adjusted. Specifically, the adjustment unit 50 performs adjustments to generate the operating software 2s written to the inverter 2 based on the motor information 30m of the simulated target motor determined above and the adjustment conditions input in the simulation operation setting unit 80. Details of the adjustment process in step S9 will be described later.

[0174] In step S10, the operating software is updated. Specifically, the motor simulation setting output unit 70 processes the output of the operating software 2s generated as described above to the storage unit 2m of the inverter 2, in a manner that enables the probe motor 3 to simulate the simulated target motor determined above. Details of the output processing of the operating software in step S10 will be described later.

[0175] In step S11, a virtual test run using a simulated electric motor is performed. Specifically, the machine manufacturer 103 runs the test run of the mechanical system 5 with the probe motor 3 simulated as the simulated target motor. At this time, the operation data collection unit 20 processes the operation data 3d collected from the storage unit 2m of the inverter 2 regarding this operation.

[0176] Alternatively, at this time, a simulated electric motor can be actually purchased and obtained, installed in the testing machine of the mechanical system 5, and evaluated by running the testing machine. At this time, as described above, the motor simulation setting output unit 70 outputs the operating software for operating the motor using the inverter 3 to the storage unit 2m of the inverter 2 connected to the obtained motor. This operating software is different from the operating software used for simulation; it is newly adjusted operating software. This is because the hardware characteristics of the probe motor 3 and the obtained motor are different, therefore the operating software needs to be adjusted taking into account these hardware characteristics.

[0177] In step S12, a determination is made as to whether the development of the mechanical system has been completed. Specifically, the equipment manufacturer 103 determines whether the development has been completed. If the equipment manufacturer 103 determines that the development has been completed (S12: Yes), the equipment manufacturer 103 inputs information indicating that the development has been completed through the operation terminal 6A. Then, the process proceeds to the next step S13 to order the motor and inverter for the product. On the other hand, if the equipment manufacturer 103 determines that the development has not been completed (S12: No), for example, if the equipment manufacturer 103 has not obtained satisfactory results, or if it is considered that the probe motor 3 should simulate other motors and the test machine should be run for evaluation, the equipment manufacturer 103 may select one of the following.

[0178] The first selection SL1 is to reselect the candidate simulation object motor. If the simulation object motor is reselected, return to step S8.

[0179] The second option, SL2, is to re-select the candidate motors. If the simulated motors are re-selected, return to step S7.

[0180] The third option, SL3, is to change the selection of the probe motor 3. For example, if it is determined that the current probe motor 3 cannot fully cover a certain characteristic, or cannot adequately evaluate the mechanical system 5, then another probe motor with different characteristics is used to try running the test machine. In this case, the process returns to step S2 to request the provision of another probe motor. The simulation operation setting unit 80 in the motor simulation system 100 performs the procedure for providing another probe motor in accordance with this request operation.

[0181] In step S13, the motor and inverter for the product are ordered. Specifically, the equipment manufacturer 103 selects the product motor to be used in the product from the motors simulated by the probe motor 3. Then, the machine manufacturer 103 operates the operation terminal 6A to order the product motor and inverter. At this time, in the case of mass production of the machine system 5, multiple product motors and inverters are ordered. The simulation operation setting unit 80 in the motor simulation system 100 performs the ordering process accordingly. The equipment manufacturer 103 then accepts the product motor and inverter.

[0182] In step S14, the output of the operating software is performed. Specifically, the motor simulation setting output unit 70 processes the writing of the inverter output for the product into the operating software for the product.

[0183] Furthermore, while steps S1 to S14 are performed in the order described above in this embodiment, the example is not limited to this one, and various variations are possible. For example, some steps may be performed in parallel, the order of the steps may be changed, or previous steps may be returned to or subsequent steps may be advanced midway through the process.

[0184] <Screening / Recommendation Processing of Simulated Motor Candidates>

[0185] Here, details of the screening / suggestion process for the simulated motor candidates in step S7 are explained. Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the screening / recommendation process (S7) for simulated motor candidates.

[0186] In step S701, a process is performed to screen candidate analog motors based on the probe motor. That is, the candidate analog motors are screened as motor models that are backward compatible with the probe motor 3. As a specific example, the simulation operation setting unit 80 is based on... Figure 4 In the setting screen 65A, the selected detector motor model is determined as detector motor 3. Then, the motor candidate extraction unit 40 refers to the motor information 30m stored in the motor database 30 to filter the backward compatible products of the determined detector motor 3. The simulation operation setting unit 80 displays the simulation motor candidates that are backward compatible products of detector motor 3 in the filtering result display screen 66D.

[0187] In step S702, a process is performed to determine whether to set the mechanism model as a screening condition. As a specific example, the simulation operation setting unit 80 determines... Figure 5Check if the "Filter by Mechanism Model" checkbox is selected in the simulated motor filtering screen 66 shown. If the result is affirmative (S702: Yes), proceed to step S703. If the result is negative (S702: No), proceed to step S711.

[0188] In step S703, a process is performed to determine whether to set the NT characteristic filter as a filtering condition. As a specific example, the simulation operation setting unit 80, based on... Figure 5 The system determines whether the "Filter by NT Characteristics" checkbox in the simulated motor filtering screen 66 is selected. If it is determined that filtering by NT characteristics is set as a filtering condition (S703: Yes), proceed to step S704. If it is determined that it is not set (S703: No), proceed to step S705.

[0189] In step S704, the process of screening candidate simulated motors based on NT characteristics is performed. Specifically, the motor analysis unit 21 determines the actual result of the relationship between the speed and torque of the probe motor based on the collected operating data. Next, the motor candidate extraction unit 40 plots the NT characteristic curves (two-dimensional mapping diagrams) at each position corresponding to the determined actual result on the NT characteristic diagram. Then, for the candidate simulated motors selected at the current moment, the NT characteristic curves of the candidate simulated motors are compared with the plotted positions on the NT characteristic diagram. Then, for each candidate simulated motor, it is determined whether the NT characteristic curve of the candidate simulated motor contains a predetermined proportion (e.g., 80% or more, 90% or more, 100%, etc.) of the plotted position. Screening is performed by retaining only the candidate simulated motors that are affirmed in this determination. Then, the simulation operation setting unit 80 highlights the selected candidate simulated motors in the screening result display screen 66D on the operation terminal 6A. Thus, screening can be performed by retaining more suitable candidates as candidates for the motors mounted in the mechanical system 5.

[0190] In step S705, a process is performed to determine whether to set the vibration of the reproduced mechanical system as a screening condition. As a specific example, the simulation operation setting unit 80 determines based on... Figure 5 The system determines whether the "Reproduce Vibration" checkbox is selected in the motor condition filtering screen shown. If it is determined that reproduce vibration is set as a filtering condition (S705: Yes), proceed to step S706. If it is determined that it is not set (S705: No), proceed to step S707.

[0191] In step S706, a process is performed to screen candidate simulated motors that reproduce the vibration of the mechanical system. Specifically, the vibration detection unit 22 determines whether vibration has occurred in the mechanical system 5 using the detection motor 3 based on collected operating data. The motor candidate extraction unit 40 determines whether vibration has occurred based on this determination information. Then, if it is determined that no vibration has occurred, the process proceeds to step S707. On the other hand, if it is determined that vibration has occurred, the mechanism system modeling unit 60 performs simulations of the operation of the mechanical system 5 with each candidate simulated motor installed in the mechanical system 5. Then, the motor candidate extraction unit 40 screens the candidates by retaining only those simulated motors that reproduce the vibration in the simulations. After screening, the simulation operation setting unit 80 highlights the screened candidate simulated motors on the screening result display screen 66D.

[0192] In step S707, a process is performed to determine whether to set the setting of disallowing increased motor power consumption as a screening condition. As a specific example, the simulation operation setting unit 80, based on... Figure 5 The system determines whether the "Do not allow power increase" checkbox is selected in the motor condition filtering screen shown. If it is determined that "Do not allow power increase" is set as a filtering condition (S707: No), proceed to step S708. Conversely, if it is determined that "Do not allow power increase" is not set as a filtering condition (S707: Yes), proceed to step S709.

[0193] In step S708, a screening process is performed to select candidate simulated motors whose power consumption does not increase. Specifically, the motor analysis unit 21 determines the power consumption or its variation pattern of the probe motor 3 based on the collected operating data 3d. The mechanism system modeling unit 60 simulates the operation of the mechanical system 5 with each candidate simulated motor installed in the mechanical system 5. Then, the motor candidate extraction unit 40 filters the candidates by retaining only those whose predicted power consumption or its variation pattern is lower than that when the probe motor 3 is used. After filtering, the simulation operation setting unit 80 highlights the selected candidate simulated motors in the filtering result display screen 66D.

[0194] In step S709, a process is performed to determine whether to set the setting of disallowing an increase in motor temperature as a screening condition. As a specific example, the simulation operation setting unit 80, based on... Figure 5The system determines whether the "Do not allow temperature increase" checkbox is selected in the motor condition filtering screen shown. If it is determined that "Do not allow temperature increase" is set as a filtering condition (S709: No), proceed to step S710. Conversely, if it is determined that "Do not allow temperature increase" is not set as a filtering condition (S709: Yes), proceed to step S711.

[0195] In step S710, a screening process is performed to select candidate simulated motors whose temperature does not increase. Specifically, the motor analysis unit 21 determines the temperature or its variation pattern of the probe motor 3 based on collected operating data. The mechanism system modeling unit 60 simulates the operation of the mechanical system 5 with each candidate simulated motor installed in the mechanical system 5. Then, the motor candidate extraction unit 40 filters candidate simulated motors whose predicted temperature or its variation pattern is lower than that of the motor when the probe motor 3 is used. After filtering, the simulation operation setting unit 80 highlights the selected candidate simulated motors in the filtering result display screen 66D.

[0196] In step S711, a process is performed to determine whether to set the screening condition according to the rated / specification parameters. As a specific example, the simulation operation setting unit 80 determines whether to set the screening condition according to the rated / specification parameters. Figure 5 The system determines whether the "Filter by Parameter" checkbox in the motor condition filtering screen is selected. If it is determined that "Filter by Parameter" is set as a filtering condition (S711: Yes), proceed to step S712. If it is determined that it is not set (S711: Yes), proceed to step S713.

[0197] In step S712, a screening process based on rated / specification parameters is performed. As a specific example, the simulation operation setting unit 80 determines... Figure 5 The parameter filtering setting screen 66B shows which parameter has an allowed range (maximum and minimum value). Then, the motor candidate extraction unit 40 determines whether the parameters of the currently retained simulated motor candidates are within the set allowed range. The filtering is performed by retaining simulated motor candidates whose parameters are within the allowed range for all rated / specification parameters with set allowed ranges. Rated / specification parameters can include, for example, voltage, rated output, maximum torque, maximum current, speed, and moment of inertia. After filtering, the simulation operation setting unit 80 highlights the filtered simulated motor candidates in the filtering result display screen 66D.

[0198] In step S713, a process is performed to determine whether the setting for not displaying motor candidates excluded by the filtering in step S601 has been implemented in the screening result display screen 66D. That is, it is determined whether a setting has been implemented to display backward compatible products that are not limited to the selected probe motor. As a specific example, the simulation operation setting unit 80, based on... Figure 5 The system determines whether the checkbox in the motor detection filter screen 66C of the motor condition filter screen is selected. If it is not selected, it is determined that the setting of only displaying backward compatible products of the detection motor 3 has been performed (S713: Yes), and the filtering process for the simulated motor candidate ends. On the other hand, if it is selected, it is determined that the setting of only displaying backward compatible products of the detection motor 3 has been performed (S711: No), and the process proceeds to step S714.

[0199] In step S714, a display process is performed to add motor candidates that were excluded by the filtering in step S701 to the list of motor candidates that can be selected as simulation targets. Specifically, the motor candidate extraction unit 40 adds motor candidates excluded based on the detection motor, i.e., motor candidates that are non-backward compatible with the detection motor, to the simulation target motor candidates. Then, the simulation operation setting unit 80 displays these motor candidates in the filtering result display screen 66D. At this time, motor candidates that are non-backward compatible may be displayed in gray, or in a way that indicates they are non-backward compatible.

[0200] Through the above screening / suggestion process for simulated motor candidates, only simulated motor candidates that meet the screening criteria are displayed in the final screening result display screen 66D.

[0201] At this time, the evaluation results obtained by the mechanism system modeling unit 60, namely the evaluation results of the impact of the difference in characteristics between the probe motor 3 and the candidate simulated motor on the mechanical system 5 or its internal equipment using the candidate simulated motor, can also be displayed correspondingly to the candidate simulated motor. Therefore, it is possible to know in advance the impact of whether it is permissible to change the motor used in the mechanical system 5 from the probe motor 3 to the candidate simulated motor, thus reducing the risk of unforeseen situations occurring after the decision to adopt a motor for the product.

[0202] Furthermore, the selected candidate simulated motors can be displayed in a sorted order according to the priority of the simulation results corresponding to each candidate. This allows for the selection of a more suitable candidate simulated motor while comparing the results of a reference simulation or considering its priority.

[0203] <Adjustment Processing>

[0204] Next, details of the software adjustment process in step S9 will be explained. This adjustment process is performed by the adjustment unit 50. Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the adjustment process (S9) of the running software.

[0205] In step S91, a process is performed to determine whether the selected analog motor candidate is a new motor candidate. Specifically, this determination is made by referring to the history of previously executed adjustment processes. If the determination is that it is a new motor candidate (S91: Yes), proceed to step S92. If the determination is that it is not a new motor candidate (S91: No), since the initial value setting can be omitted, proceed to step S93. Alternatively, if in step S91 the determination is that it is not a new motor candidate and past adjustment results can be directly used, the adjustment process can also end.

[0206] After step S92, the process of adjusting the operating software stored in inverter 2 is performed. The operating software 2s includes elements such as parameters and algorithms that determine the characteristics of the motor. The operating software 2s includes, for example, algorithms for one or more arithmetic modules constituting the motor control system, coefficients of one or more differentiating circuits, coefficients of one or more integrating circuits, and various parameters such as the gain of one or more amplifiers. Therefore, adjusting the operating software 2s includes adjusting at least one of these algorithms and parameters.

[0207] In step S92, the process of setting the specified initial values ​​is performed for various algorithms or various parameters.

[0208] In step S93, it is determined whether various algorithms or parameters need to be adjusted. If it is determined that adjustment is needed (S93: Yes), proceed to step S94. If it is determined that adjustment is not needed (S93: No), proceed to step S98.

[0209] In step S94, various algorithms or parameters are set to perform numerical analysis simulation based on the numerical analysis simulation model generated by the mechanism system modeling unit 60.

[0210] In step S95, it is determined whether the results of the numerical analysis simulation meet the specified convergence conditions. If the convergence conditions are met (S95: Yes), proceed to step S96. If the convergence conditions are not met (S95: No), proceed to step S97, make minor changes to various algorithms or parameters, and then return to step S94 to execute the numerical analysis simulation again.

[0211] In this way, various algorithms or parameter changes and numerical analysis simulations are repeatedly executed until the results of the numerical analysis simulation meet the specified convergence conditions.

[0212] Furthermore, the convergence conditions specified above can be preset or set based on the motor control elements input by the equipment manufacturer 103. When the equipment manufacturer 103 inputs control elements, the operating software 2s can be adjusted in a control manner that reflects the requirements, and a more preferred operating software 2s for the equipment manufacturer 103 can be generated.

[0213] In step S96, the converged algorithms and parameters are saved. Then, proceed to step S98.

[0214] In step S98, a process is performed to set a running software update preparation completion flag indicating that the running software update preparation is complete.

[0215] <Output processing of running software>

[0216] Next, details of the output processing of the running software in step S10 will be explained. Furthermore, this output processing of the running software is performed by the motor simulation setting output unit 70. Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of output processing (S10) of running software.

[0217] In step S101, it is determined whether the above-mentioned motor update preparation completion flag has been set. Here, if it is determined that the completion flag has been set (S101: Yes), proceed to step S102. If it is determined that the completion flag has not been set (S101: No), it is determined that the update preparation of the running software has not been completed, and the output processing of the running software ends. Alternatively, step S101 can be executed repeatedly until it is determined that the completion flag has been set.

[0218] In step S102, a process is performed to determine whether the inverter has stopped. If the inverter has stopped (S102: Yes), proceed to step S103. If the inverter has not stopped (S102: No), proceed to step S104, and output a message indicating that the inverter has stopped. This is because when transmitting the operating software while the inverter 2 has not stopped, there is a possibility that the motor may perform unexpected actions during transmission. For example, a message such as "Please stop the inverter" may be displayed on the operating terminal, or an audio or warning tone may be output. Afterward, the output processing of the operating software ends. Alternatively, step S102 may be executed repeatedly until it is determined that the inverter has stopped.

[0219] In step S104, the process of preparing the running software saved in S906 for transmission is carried out.

[0220] In step S105, the process of activating the aforementioned transmission execution button 67E in the adjustment screen is performed.

[0221] In step S106, a process is performed to determine whether the transfer execution button 67E, etc., has been pressed. If it is determined that the transfer execution button 67E has been pressed (S106: "Transfer" pressed), proceed to step S107. If it is determined that the interrupt button 67D has been pressed (S106: "Interrupt" pressed), the output processing of the running software ends. If it is determined that no button has been pressed, or that a button other than these buttons has been pressed (S106: Other), return to step S106.

[0222] In step S107, the prepared operating software is transferred to the inverter's storage unit. After the transfer is complete, the output processing of the operating software ends.

[0223] <Structure of the motor control system in the inverter>

[0224] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing the structure of the motor control system in inverter 2. Furthermore, in this embodiment, mechanical system 5 constitutes a servo system.

[0225] like Figure 12 As shown, inverter 2 rectifies the input voltage from the three-phase power supply 9 using rectifier circuit 2B and smooths it using smoothing circuit 2C to convert it into DC voltage Vdc. This DC voltage Vdc is switched using switching element 2S and supplied to the three terminals u, v, and w of the sensing motor 3. The control system CTRL in inverter 2 sends the rectified DC voltage Vdc, the inverter temperature Tinv detected by inverter temperature sensor 2T, the motor temperature Tm detected by motor temperature sensor 3T, the motor currents Iu, Iv, and Iw supplied to the motor terminals u, v, and w detected by current sensor 2J, and the DC current Idc detected by current sensor 2P.

[0226] Next, the functions of the control system in the inverter will be explained in more detail.

[0227] In mechanical systems, especially in the case of servo systems with positioning performance characteristics, for the detection motor 3, the rotation angle information Pfb is detected by the rotary encoder 3B mounted on the rotating shaft. Pfb is used as the control quantity of the position control system and the time derivative of Pfb is used as the control quantity of the speed control system and fed back to the inverter 2.

[0228] The motor control system CTRL in inverter 2 is roughly divided into three parts, mainly consisting of a position control system PC, a speed control system SC, and a torque (current) control system TC. Generally, a cascaded control structure is used, where the output of the position control system PC is connected to the input of the speed control system SC, and the output of the speed control system SC is connected to the input of the torque control system TC.

[0229] The position control system PC receives the position command value P* from controller 4. The speed control system SC receives the speed command value S* from controller 4. If the position command value P* has been input, the speed command value S* is not input to prevent conflict between the position and speed commands.

[0230] Each control system, as shown in the figure, has a structure consisting of an operational filter F, a differentiating circuit D, an integrating circuit T, an amplifying circuit A, and addition / subtraction operators H connected together.

[0231] Regarding the operational filter F, it is possible to consider operational modules such as first-order lag, second-order lag, moving average, and complex operational modules such as disturbance compensators or delay compensators. The operational filter is characterized using the algorithm "Fil".

[0232] The differentiating circuit D can be implemented in embedded software using the previous value difference. The parameter "s" is used to characterize the differentiating circuit D.

[0233] The integrator circuit T can be implemented using accumulated values ​​in embedded software. The parameter "1 / s" gives the integrator circuit T a characteristic. Furthermore, overflow of the integral value obtained by the integrator circuit T can adversely affect the system, so it generally includes an integral value reset function and upper and lower limit limiters. That is, as auxiliary parameters, there are also initial reset values ​​R and limiter thresholds L.

[0234] The gain parameter "Kαβ" is used to characterize amplifier circuit A. Here, the subscript α: p represents position, s represents speed, and i represents current. The subscript β: f represents feedforward, p represents proportional, and i represents integral.

[0235] In addition, the above algorithm “Fil”, the differential parameter “s”, the integral parameter “1 / s”, the gain parameter “Kαβ”, the reset initial value R, and the limiter threshold L use the same notation in the figure, but are independent of each other.

[0236] These algorithms and parameters are all finely adjustable, including within the runtime software of this invention. That is, they are included in the objects updated or output during runtime software updates.

[0237] In each control system, a proportional / integral control term is set to make the difference between the command value and the control feedback close to zero, or a feedforward term is set to improve the command value following performance. The system is configured to allow fine adjustment of filter constants such as control gain / upper / lower limit limiters and first-order lag time constants as parameters. Furthermore, the system is configured to adjust the operation of the detection motor 3 in the mechanical system 5.

[0238] Furthermore, since the motor torque is roughly proportional to the motor current, torque control can be replaced by motor current control. Inverter 2 uses the duty cycle of the PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) control of the switching element 2S as the final operating quantity to control the three-phase motor currents Iu, Iv, and Iw, thereby forming a closed loop for motor control.

[0239] Here, the current control of the motor generally involves transforming the rotating magnetic field into orthogonal d-axis and q-axis vector components, performing control calculations, and then performing the inverse transformation again. The torque MT of a typical synchronous motor used in a servo system is given by the following formula, and in particular, the control gain considering these variables is set in torque control.

[0240] MT=mp{φ a I q -(L q -L d )I d I q}......(Formula 1)

[0241] Here, m: number of phases, p: number of pole pairs of the motor, φ a Induced voltage constant, I d d-axis current, I q : q-axis current, L d d-axis inductance, L q : q-axis inductance. Additionally, I = √(I0) d 2 +I q 2 (√ represents the square root). In addition, in inverter 2, in addition to the motor current, various sensors such as DC voltage Vdc, DC current Idc, inverter temperature Tinv, and motor temperature Tm can be connected to monitor parameters.

[0242] in addition, Figure 12 The control module shown is one example; the filter function in the block diagram can also be constructed using observers that apply modern control theory. Thus, it is expected that the adverse effects of disturbances or delays in the control system can be prevented, or the required mechanical vibrations can be reduced.

[0243] The key feature of this service is that, instead of evaluating all motor candidates by replacing them with different ones each time, it uses a single representative probe motor to simulate multiple motor candidates when comparing multiple candidates. The simulation of the motors will be explained in detail below.

[0244] Generally speaking, the equation of motion from the perspective of the motor shaft (subscript m) connecting the mechanical system (subscript a) can be expressed by the following formula.

[0245] MT=(J m +(J a / n 2 ))(d 2 Θ / d 2 t)+(D m +(D a / n 2 ))(dΘ / dt)……(Equation 2)

[0246] Here, Θ: motor angle, J: moment of inertia, D: coefficient of viscous friction, and n is the transmission ratio (mechanical gear / motor gear).

[0247] In this service, the initial stage of the third phase (PH3) involves a test run to determine the operating constants of the probe motor itself. Based on the motor's rotation angle information Pfb and the motor currents Iu, Iv, and Iw, the mechanism system modeling unit 60 estimates the mechanical constants of the test machine, such as the velocity moment of inertia Ja, the coefficient of viscous friction Da, and the transmission ratio n, using Equations 1 and 2. These mechanical constants of the test machine are constants other than the motor, such as those of the transmission unit or the load, and therefore can be considered to remain unchanged even if the motor is changed.

[0248] Next, during the motor simulation, a numerical analysis simulation is virtually performed on the mechanical system modeling unit 60, applying the mechanical system constants obtained in the previous stage and the constants of the candidate motors to simulate the overall operation of the mechanical system 5. Then, characteristic quantities of the results, particularly the tendency for vibration to occur, are extracted. Furthermore, at this point, depending on the type of candidate motor, especially for concentrated winding motors, the simulation can be constructed to reflect torque pulsations caused by tooth cogging. Specifically, in the information input or pre-evaluation of the motor sample in the first stage PH1, the possible cogging torque of the target motor is quantified and registered in the motor database 30. Then, when the motor is selected as the simulation target, this pulsation is injected as a variation component of the d-axis or q-axis.

[0249] Next, during motor parameter adjustment, the control parameters corresponding to the detection motor 3 are scanned and adjusted based on whether the vibration tendency obtained from the previous stage is reduced or reproduced. Specifically, the motor parameters are adjusted to ensure that the simulation results after parameter adjustment are consistent with the characteristic vibration frequencies and their intensity spectra obtained from the previous stage. For example, the characteristic vibration frequencies and their intensity spectra obtained from the previous stage are compared with the vibration frequencies and their intensity spectra obtained based on the simulation results after parameter adjustment. At this time, the average of the squared errors of the two is used as the objective function, and the function value is calculated. Then, if the function value is below a specified value, convergence is determined.

[0250] Through the above processing, appropriate motor candidates are extracted using numerical analysis simulation, and the probe motor 3 simulates the action of any motor, thereby enabling practical evaluation of various motors without replacing the motor.

[0251] If it is like this Figure 12 In the case of the servo system with the structure shown, the workload of purchasing, replacing, managing, and adjusting the test motor can be reduced on the equipment manufacturer 103's side. In addition, it can be expected that the motor supplier 104 will also reduce the cost and management workload of providing test motor samples, and increase the chances of being informed of or virtually provided by the equipment manufacturer 103.

[0252] After virtual verification was completed by simulating the detection of motor 3 in the testing machine, the model of the motor used in the final product was determined.

[0253] In the fourth stage, PH4, the numerical analysis simulation of the mechanism system modeling unit 60 involves another adjustment of the running software 2s (i.e., at least one of the algorithm and parameters). This stage involves adjusting the running software 2s to make the actual motor used, rather than the probe motor 3, run. Therefore, it is important to note that this adjustment includes not only the constants in Equation 2 mentioned above, but also parameter adjustments that take into account changes in the constants in Equation 1.

[0254] In this way, if the application mechanism system modeling unit 60 adjusts the running software 2s, it can easily start operation without adjustment even when the motor is replaced with one used in the actual product, rather than in a simulation. Furthermore, it also provides a system with excellent reproducibility of the operating history accumulated by the detection motor 3 in the past.

[0255] Furthermore, the vibration settings set in the mechanism model selection screen 66A or the adjustment condition setting screen 67B can be used to set whether the mechanical system 5 needs vibration, and it is possible to specify whether the vibration is in the high output range or the low output range. This can provide services that better meet the needs of the service users and make the parameters of the inverter 2 that need to be adjusted more specific.

[0256] Furthermore, when selecting a simulated motor from the candidate motors, the user interface allows for side-by-side comparison of the probe motor 3 and the candidate motors, or multiple candidate motors, in the same numerical table or coordinate system, improving recognizability. This enhances the confidence of equipment manufacturers in selecting the simulated motor and prevents the selection of the wrong simulated motor due to carelessness. Moreover, the overview display includes a sorting function that compares performance items, allowing for priority settings based on arbitrary evaluation functions for each item, making selection even easier.

[0257] Furthermore, if the configuration involves notifying the motor provider of the selected simulated motor, additional information exchange between the motor provider 104 and the equipment manufacturer 103 can begin earlier, further reducing development workload. However, there is a possibility of confidentiality or personal information belonging to both parties, so the configuration should allow for the option to permit or deny each information exchange.

[0258] Furthermore, it is impractical to obtain a large amount of motor information using only one type of detection motor 3. Therefore, the motor provider 104 lists various detection motors 3, such as those for several kW, tens of kW, high-output low-speed, low-output high-speed, and cylindrical / flat types, and selects the detection motor 3 that corresponds to the requirements of the equipment manufacturer 103. At this time, the selected detection motor 3 may only be able to simulate a portion of the motors registered in the motor database 30. Therefore, in this case, the motor candidate display screen is made to only display motors that can be simulated by the detection motor 3 used by the equipment manufacturer 103 through the processing in step S703, thus improving the search efficiency. On the other hand, if the selected detection motor 3 is unsatisfactory and a replacement is considered, the display can be bypassed by checking the checkboxes in the detection motor filtering screen 66C and through the processing in step S714.

[0259] The electric motor simulation system 100 with this structure can virtually test and evaluate the operation of the electric motor without actually replacing it.

[0260] That is, the equipment manufacturer 103 does not need to limit the candidates for electric motors used in the mechanical system to a small number of types. As a result, the optimal electric motor can be determined efficiently, and the quality or speed of the development of mechanical systems using electric motors and inverters can be improved.

[0261] Furthermore, the electric motor supplier 104 has the opportunity to research various electric motors, including new ones. As a result, it can increase opportunities for the promotion and sales of electric motors.

[0262] In addition, service provider 105 can operate a business that obtains profits from electric motor provider 104, or commissions from the rental or sale of electric motors and system usage fees from equipment manufacturer 103.

[0263] The foregoing has described representative embodiments of this specification, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and includes various modifications. For example, the above embodiments are described in detail for ease of understanding of the present invention and are not limited to having all the structures described. Furthermore, a part of the structure of a certain embodiment can be replaced with the structure of another embodiment, and structures of other embodiments can be added to the structure of a certain embodiment.

[0264] <Note>

[0265] The preferred embodiments of the present invention are described below.

[0266] The above-described software update system includes a browsing acceptance unit that accepts the selection of whether or not to browse the motor information of a motor corresponding to a backward compatible motor different from the detection motor 3, which is stored in the motor database 30; and a display control unit that controls the display to only allow browsing of motor information of a motor corresponding to the backward compatible motor of the detection motor 3, in accordance with the non-browsable selection in the browsing acceptance unit. This structure is also an example of an embodiment of the invention described in this specification.

[0267] Furthermore, the structure of using sales or leasing as a procedure for providing the detection motor or inverter to the equipment manufacturer 103 in the above-mentioned mechanical system development auxiliary service method is also an example of an embodiment of the invention in this specification.

[0268] In addition, the program used to enable the computer to function as the aforementioned software update system is also an example of an embodiment of the invention described in this specification.

[0269] In addition, a computer-readable recording medium that records the program is also an example of an embodiment of the invention described herein.

[0270] Industrial availability

[0271] This invention can be used in the development of mechanical systems including electric motors and inverters.

[0272] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0273] 1…Server, 11…Processor, 12…Memory, 13…Storage, 14…Interface, 2…Inverter, 2m…Storage Unit, 2s…Running Software, 2G…Inverter Group, 3…Detecting Motor, 3d…Running Data, 3G…Detecting Motor Group, 4…Controller, 5…Mechanical System, 6A…Operating Terminal, 6B…Operating Terminal, 7…Network, 8…Access Point, 10…Initial Setting Unit, 20…Running Data Collection Unit, 21…Motor Analysis Unit, 22…Vibration Detection Unit, 30…Motor Database, 30m…Motor Information, 40…Motor Candidate Extraction Unit, 50…Adjustment Unit, 60…Mechanical System Modeling Unit, 70…Motor Simulation Setting Output Unit, 80…Simulation Running Setting Unit, 100…Motor Simulation System, 103…Equipment Manufacturer, 104…Motor Provider, 105…Service Provider.

Claims

1. A software update system, characterized in that: It is configured to communicate with an inverter that has a memory for storing the operating software of the electric motor. The software update system includes: A collection device that collects operating data representing the operating status of the first motor when the inverter causes the first motor to operate; An analysis device that analyzes the operating status of the first motor based on the operating data collected by the collection device; The selection device, based on the results of analysis performed by the analysis device, selects a motor that has lower performance than the first motor in at least one characteristic and is a backward compatible product of the first motor as the second motor; and An updating device updates the operating software stored in the memory so that the first motor can operate in a manner that simulates the characteristics of the second motor.

2. The software update system as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The updating device outputs the operating software used to enable the second motor to the memory of the inverter to which the second motor is connected.

3. The software update system as described in claim 1, characterized in that: It has a storage device that stores motor information representing the characteristics of multiple motors. The selected device includes: A screening device that, with reference to the motor information stored in the storage device, selects one or more motor candidates from the plurality of motors; A display device that displays one or more electric motor candidates selected by the screening device; The selection device, according to the operator's operation, selects one of the more than one candidate motors presented as the second motor; and A conditional acceptance device that accepts input screening conditions regarding the characteristics of the electric motor. The screening device selects one or more motor candidates according to the screening conditions accepted by the condition acceptance device.

4. The software update system as described in claim 1, characterized in that: In the NT characteristic curve diagram showing the relationship between the speed and torque of the motor, the backward compatible product of the first motor has its NT characteristic curve located inside the NT characteristic curve of the first motor.

5. The software update system as described in claim 3, characterized in that: The analysis device determines the actual result of the relationship between the speed and torque of the first motor when the inverter causes the first motor to run. The screening device selects candidate motors whose NT characteristic curves in the NT characteristic curve diagram contain a specified proportion or more of the positions corresponding to the actual results.

6. The software update system as described in claim 3, characterized in that: The analysis device determines the load characteristics applied to the first motor when the inverter causes the first motor to operate. The screening device screens the candidate motors based on the load characteristics determined by the analysis device.

7. The software update system as described in claim 6, characterized in that: The analysis device predicts whether the second motor will vibrate based on the load characteristics and the characteristic information of the second motor. The software update system has a vibration setting device that accepts a setting that considers whether editing the running software will reduce or reproduce the vibration when the vibration is predicted to exist. The updating device edits the operating software based on the settings accepted by the vibration setting device.

8. The software update system as described in claim 7, characterized in that: The vibration setting device accepts whether to consider two or more independent vibration frequency bands.

9. The software update system as described in claim 6, characterized in that: The storage device stores motor information corresponding to the first motor. The analysis device simulates the operation of a mechanical system conceived by combining one of the plurality of motors with the load characteristics, based on the motor information corresponding to that one motor and the load characteristics. The software update system has an output device that can comparatively output the simulation results performed by the analysis device for a mechanical system conceived by combining the first motor with the load characteristics, and the simulation results performed by the analysis device for a mechanical system conceived by combining other motors different from the first motor with the load characteristics.

10. The software update system as described in claim 9, characterized in that: The analysis device applies an evaluation function to the simulation results to calculate an evaluation value, and sorts the simulation results based on the evaluation value.

11. A method for providing auxiliary services for the development of mechanical systems, characterized in that, include: The steps to store information about multiple motors corresponding to multiple motors in a database; The procedure for processing procedures is to provide the developer of a mechanical system using an electric motor and an inverter with a first electric motor and a first inverter storing the operating software of the first electric motor; The step of collecting operating data representing the operating status of the first motor when the first inverter causes the first motor to operate; Based on the collected operating data and the motor information stored in the database, the step of selecting a second motor that has lower performance than the first motor in at least one characteristic and is a backward compatible product of the first motor is taken. and The step of updating the operating software stored in the first inverter enables the first motor to operate in a manner that simulates the characteristics of the second motor.

12. The mechanical system development auxiliary service method as described in claim 11, characterized in that: The method includes a step of evaluating the impact of the difference in characteristics between the first motor and the second motor on the equipment using the second motor.

13. The mechanical system development auxiliary service method as described in claim 11, characterized in that: This includes the step of transmitting operating software to the first inverter according to the control elements of the second motor input by the developer.

14. The mechanical system development auxiliary service method as described in claim 11, characterized in that: This includes the step of notifying the supplier of the second motor that the second motor has been selected.

15. A program product, characterized in that, Used to enable the computer to perform: The collection step involves collecting operating data representing the operating status of the first motor when the inverter, which has a memory for storing the operating software of the motor, causes the first motor to run. The analysis step involves analyzing the operating status of the first motor based on the operating data collected in the collection step. In the selection step, based on the results of the analysis in the analysis step, a motor that has lower performance than the first motor in at least one characteristic and is a backward compatible product of the first motor is selected as the second motor. and An update step that updates the inverter's operating software to enable the first motor to operate in a manner that simulates the characteristics of the second motor selected in the selected step.

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