Motor Control System for Model Vehicle Staging Precision

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional systems for controlling remote-controlled model vehicles face challenges in precise control during staging due to jerky or uncontrolled movements at low speeds, especially with DC motors, which hinder accurate positioning at the starting line.

Innovation Solution

A motor control system with a transmitter and motor controller that allows users to switch between modes of operation, including a staging mode for precise control at low speeds, by managing power through incremental rotor advancements and voltage/current adjustments, enabling smooth and precise movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If conventional DC motor control with chopped DC voltage at duty cycle is used, then maximum power and top speed are achieved, but precise control at low speeds during staging is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemotor power outputVSAvoidpositioning precision during staging
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically switches between two control modes: a first control mode for low-speed staging operations and a second control mode for high-speed racing operations. This dynamic adaptation allows the motor controller to optimize performance for the current operating condition, achieving both precise low-speed positioning and maximum power output when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the control parameters applied to the motor based on operating conditions. In the first control mode, pulse width modulation is used with adjusted parameters for smooth low-speed operation. In the second control mode, different parameters are applied to enable maximum power delivery and top speed performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Speed

If maximum throttle is applied to achieve top speed, then velocity increases, but control precision and smoothness at low speeds deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevehicle speedVSAvoidcontrol smoothness during staging
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The control system dynamically adapts its behavior based on the selected operating mode and current speed. During staging at low speeds, the system provides smooth, incremental rotor advancements for precise control. When racing at higher speeds, the system transitions to a different control mode that prioritizes speed and power delivery.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Device complexity

If conventional motor control is used, then simple control structure is maintained, but jerky movements and under-shoot/over-shoot issues occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol system complexityVSAvoidmovement smoothness and positioning accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is segmented into distinct operational modes with specialized control strategies for each mode. The first control mode handles staging operations with smooth, controlled movements, while the second control mode handles racing operations. This segmentation allows each mode to be optimized independently for its specific requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

The system provides precise control and smooth movement at low speeds, allowing users to accurately position the model vehicle at the starting line without jerky movements, enhancing user control and reducing under-shoot and over-shoot issues.

Implementation Method 1

The motor receives its power input from the battery, wherein the power input is normally managed by a means of throttle control. Power applied to a motor can be adjusted in different manners including adjustable currents and voltages.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical energy conversion to mechanical energy:

Data Source

PatentUS10525370B1System for operating a motor vehicle
Publication Date: 2020.01.07 TRAXXAS
  • US10525370B1 patent drawing
  • US10525370B1 patent drawing
  • US10525370B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A motor controller receives user input from a receiver and may change the operating mode of the motor controller according to the operating conditions of a model vehicle. In some embodiments, the user manually selects a mode of operation for the motor. In other embodiments, the operating conditions, for example the speed, power output, or other condition, may automatically trigger a transition between a first mode and a second mode of operation of the motor.