BLDC Motor Control Transition Using Weighted IB Angle Blending

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing BLDC motors face challenges in transitioning between open loop and closed loop control modes, leading to torque shocks, current spikes, and noise due to significant errors in the initial iteration of closed loop algorithms, increasing the risk of motor stalling.

Innovation Solution

A method and device that utilize a weighted average of open loop and closed loop IB angles to facilitate smooth transitions, minimizing torque shocks and noise by running both control modes in parallel and adjusting weighting factors based on motor speed and signal-to-noise ratio.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If instantaneous transition from open loop to closed loop control is performed, then control efficiency is improved, but torque shocks and current spikes occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol efficiencyVSAvoidtorque shocks and current spikes
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary initialization of the closed loop algorithm using open loop control data (voltage angle, amplitude, current usage, speed) before the actual transition. This preliminary preparation ensures that when closed loop control activates, the initial state is already optimized, reducing the magnitude of correction actions needed in the first iteration and thereby minimizing torque shocks and current spikes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts the transition process by monitoring the first iteration error of the closed loop algorithm and modulating the controller's response accordingly. When a significant error is detected, the system adjusts the proportional gain or introduces damping factors to prevent aggressive corrective actions, thereby maintaining smooth operation during the dynamic transition phase.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Measurement precision

If aggressive proportional gain response is used in closed loop initialization, then control accuracy is improved, but motor stalling risk increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol accuracyVSAvoidmotor stalling risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies preliminary anti-action by pre-initializing the closed loop controller with accurate open loop data and by detecting potential large errors before they manifest as harmful torque shocks. The system prepares countermeasures in advance, such as adjusting proportional gain or introducing soft-start mechanisms, to prevent the aggressive responses that would otherwise lead to motor stalling while still achieving control accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

3Device complexity

If traditional instantaneous transition method is used, then device complexity is reduced, but audible noise increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol system complexityVSAvoidaudible noise
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary initialization of the closed loop algorithm using open loop control parameters before the actual mode transition. This preparatory step ensures that the controller starts with accurate initial conditions, reducing the magnitude of corrective actions needed and thereby minimizing audible noise during transition without adding significant complexity to the control system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Reliability

If open loop control is used at low speeds, then motor stalling risk is reduced, but energy efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemotor stalling riskVSAvoidenergy efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically switches between open loop and closed loop control modes based on operating conditions. At low speeds, open loop control is used to minimize stalling risk, while at higher speeds where closed loop control provides better efficiency, the system transitions to closed loop mode. The transition is managed smoothly using the initialization technique to ensure continuous optimal performance across the entire speed range.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables efficient motor operation across a wide range of speeds by optimizing energy usage and reducing the risk of stalling, ensuring stable control with minimal disturbances during mode transitions.

Implementation Method 1

an observer module configured to obtain a closed loop IB angle between a measured current angle and a closed loop back electromotive force (BEMF) angle wherein the BEMF angle is obtained based on the applied voltage

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBack electromotive force (BEMF): Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20260081545A1Device and method for controlling a BLDC motor
Publication Date: 2026.03.19 MELEXIS TECH NV
  • US20260081545A1 patent drawing
  • US20260081545A1 patent drawing
  • US20260081545A1 patent drawing

AI summary

This invention provides a method and device for controlling brushless direct current (BLDC) motors, enabling smooth transitions between open loop control at low speeds and closed loop control at higher speeds. The device integrates modules for driving, observing, and transitioning between open and closed loop IB (current and back electromotive force) angles. A weighted average of the IB angles ensures stable motor performance during transitions, minimizing torque shocks, current spikes, and noise. The device also features current and voltage regulation to maintain accurate motor speed under varying conditions. Dynamic adjustment of weighting factors based on motor speed and signal-to-noise ratio further enhances control stability. This system improves motor efficiency in motor driving, reduces the risk of stalling, and optimizes performance across a wide range of operating speeds.