Centralized Electronic Control Module for Multi-Motor Synchronization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electric motor systems with multiple motors face challenges in synchronizing operating points and are costly due to independent onboard controllers and the need for different motor models for various applications.

Innovation Solution

A centralized electronic control module that generates and transmits a command signal to control the operating points of multiple motors, allowing simultaneous adjustment and operation at the same point, reducing the need for individual reprogramming and diverse motor models.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If each motor has its own onboard controller for independent control, then each motor can be controlled separately, but the system complexity and cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveIndependent motor control capabilityVSAvoidSystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent consolidates control functionality from multiple distributed onboard controllers into a single centralized electronic control module. This module receives a single command signal and distributes appropriate control signals to multiple motors, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining the ability to control each motor independently. The centralized architecture eliminates redundant controller hardware and simplifies the overall system structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The electronic control module is designed with universal functionality to control multiple different types of motors (e.g., brushless DC motors, AC induction motors) through a single interface. It can interpret a single command signal and generate appropriate control signals for various motor types, making the control system adaptable to different motor models without requiring separate dedicated controllers for each motor type.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If each motor is controlled independently with its own onboard controller, then individual motor adjustment is possible, but simultaneous coordination of multiple motors becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveIndividual motor adjustment capabilityVSAvoidSynchronization of operating points

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The electronic control module incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor the operating status of multiple motors and adjust control signals accordingly. By receiving feedback from each motor and comparing their operating points, the controller can make real-time adjustments to ensure synchronized operation while still allowing individual motors to operate at their optimal points when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The control system is designed to maintain equipotential operation across multiple motors by ensuring they all operate at the same reference operating point under normal conditions. The electronic control module distributes identical command signals to multiple motors, ensuring they operate at equivalent operating points, while still retaining the capability to adjust individual motors when specific applications require different operating conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #12Equipotentiality

3Adaptability or versatility

If different models of motors are used for separate applications, then each motor can be optimized for its specific application, but system cost increases due to requiring multiple motor models

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveApplication-specific optimizationVSAvoidSystem cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The control system allows for parameter adjustments that enable the same motor model to be optimized for different applications. By modifying control parameters such as speed, torque, and operating point settings within the electronic control module, the system can adapt a single motor model to meet the specific requirements of different applications, eliminating the need to purchase and maintain multiple different motor models.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS9030148B2Systems and methods for controlling electric motors

Publication Date: 2015.05.12 REGAL BELOIT AMERICA INC

AI summary

An electronic control module is provided. The electronic control module includes an input device, and a processor coupled to the input device. The processor is configured to generate a command signal in response to an input supplied by the input device, and transmit the command signal to a plurality of motors, wherein the command signal controls an operating point of each of the plurality of motors.