Motor Controller Auto-Configuration Using Non-Rotating DC Signal Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor controllers for medical imaging devices, such as mammography systems, face challenges when replacing motors of different make and model, as the stored parameters do not correspond to the new motor's operating characteristics, leading to reduced performance or unstable operation.
Innovation Solution
A motor controller that includes a processor and memory to identify and adjust parameters for a DC motor by outputting a modulated DC voltage without causing rotation, measuring current or voltage through the motor to determine its characteristics, and using an H-bridge configuration with switching devices to selectively apply voltage polarity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If motor parameters are stored in the controller for a specific motor make and model, then the motor operates optimally with stored parameters, but the system cannot adapt to different motor makes and models
Solution Approach 1:
The motor controller automatically identifies the connected motor's make and model by measuring its electrical characteristics (inductance, resistance, back-EMF constants) and retrieves the appropriate parameters from an internal database without requiring manual configuration or technician intervention. This self-service approach enables the system to adapt to different motor makes and models while maintaining optimal performance
Solution Approach 2:
The system stores multiple sets of motor parameters in its database, each corresponding to a specific motor make and model. When a motor is connected, the controller measures its electrical characteristics and selects the appropriate parameter set from the database, dynamically changing the control parameters to match the specific motor's operating characteristics
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual parameter configuration is required for motor replacement, then the system can accommodate different motors, but the configuration process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The motor controller automatically identifies the connected motor's make and model by measuring its electrical characteristics (inductance, resistance, back-EMF constants) and retrieves the appropriate parameters from an internal database without requiring manual configuration or technician intervention. This self-service approach enables the system to adapt to different motor makes and models while maintaining optimal performance
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual parameter configuration (mechanical/procedural approach) with automated electrical measurement and database lookup. The controller uses electrical characteristic measurements to automatically determine motor identity and retrieve parameters, substituting the manual configuration process with an automated electronic identification system
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
Ensures accurate identification and configuration of the connected DC motor, maintaining optimal performance by adapting to the motor's specific operating characteristics, thereby stabilizing system operation.
Implementation Method 1
a modulated DC voltage is output to the DC motor. Either a voltage or a current is measured through the DC motor as the modulated DC voltage is output
Implementation Method 2
using an H-bridge configuration with switching devices to selectively apply voltage polarity
Data Source
AI summary
According to one aspect of an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure, an imaging device or system includes at least one motor controlled by a motor drive. The motor is selected from one of multiple motors operable by the motor drive. A motor controller is operative to output a modulated voltage to the motor, where the modulated voltage does not cause rotation of the motor. As the motor controller outputs the modulate voltage, either the resultant voltage or the resultant current through the motor is measured. The motor controller uses the measured voltage or current to identify which of the multiple motors is connected to the motor controller and set at least one parameter in the motor controller corresponding to the identified motor.