PWM Multiplexing Circuit for Resource-Limited Multi-Axis Drives
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multi-axis drive control solutions face challenges due to limited PWM resources in microprocessors, leading to increased hardware and software workload, and inadequate system robustness, especially for multi-axis PWM complementary inputs.
Innovation Solution
A multi-axis drive control circuit utilizing a drive axis selection circuit and PWM signal multiplexing circuit to enable multi-axis control without linking phases, incorporating signal gating sub-circuits and low-side gate drive protection to manage PWM signals and prevent damage from reverse flyback current.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple microcontrollers are used to control multi-axis electric motor drive, then multi-axis control capability is improved, but hardware cost and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple PWM control functions into a single microcontroller by implementing a PWM signal multiplexing circuit that can dynamically allocate PWM resources to different drive axes. This consolidation eliminates the need for multiple separate microcontrollers while maintaining multi-axis control capability, thereby reducing hardware cost and system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal PWM control system where a single microcontroller can control multiple drive axes through the PWM signal multiplexing circuit. The circuit allows the same PWM resource to be dynamically assigned to different axes based on selection signals, making the system multi-functional without requiring dedicated hardware for each axis.
2Device complexity
If on-chip multiple PWM output signals are used for multi-axis control, then hardware cost is reduced, but software design workload increases and system robustness decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a PWM signal multiplexing circuit as an intermediary between the microcontroller and the drive axes. This circuit handles the complex signal routing and axis selection automatically, eliminating the need for complex software design to manage PWM resource allocation. The intermediary circuit performs the multiplexing function in hardware, reducing software workload while maintaining system robustness.
3Device complexity
If PWM resources are shared across multiple axes, then hardware resources are utilized efficiently, but signal transmission delay and control precision may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the PWM control signals into separate paths for different drive axes using the PWM signal multiplexing circuit. Each axis has its dedicated signal path that can be activated independently through selection signals. This segmentation ensures that when one axis is active, its PWM signals are transmitted without interference or delay from other axes, maintaining control precision while allowing efficient resource sharing when multiple axes are inactive.
Data Source
AI summary
The present application is directed to a multi-axis drive control circuit. For multiple drive axes with no need for linkage of each phase, the multi-axis drive control circuit respectively comprises: a drive axis selection circuit unit, which is used for outputting a selection signal that enables a target drive axis; and a PWM signal multiplexing circuit unit, which is used according to the selection signal for causing a PWM signal output path of the target drive axis to be on, and causing PWM signal output paths of drive axes other than the target drive axis to be off. The technical solutions may achieve multi-axis drive control in a situation where microprocessor resources are limited.