Rotating Machine Controller for Simultaneous Three-Phase and DC Motor Drive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotating machine controllers are unable to simultaneously control both polyphase and DC rotating machines, limiting their functionality and efficiency in applications like electric power steering systems.
Innovation Solution
A rotating machine controller that integrates two sets of three-phase winding systems with a control unit capable of simultaneously energizing a three-phase motor and one to three DC motors by adjusting the neutral point voltage and using relays to manage power distribution between the systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single drive circuit is used to control both polyphase and DC rotating machines, then the number of switching elements is reduced, but simultaneous control of both motor types becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The drive circuit is segmented into a polyphase power converter section and a DC power converter section, each with independent switching elements. This allows the polyphase motor and DC motor to be controlled simultaneously without interference, while still sharing common components like the DC power source and control unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit is designed to perform multiple functions by generating different types of control signals. It can generate three-phase AC drive signals for the polyphase motor and PWM drive signals for the DC motor, enabling a single control unit to manage both motor types without requiring separate dedicated controllers.
2Quantity of substance
If the circuit configuration is simplified to reduce components, then the number of parts is reduced, but the ability to simultaneously energize both motor types is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the polyphase power converter and DC power converter into a single integrated drive circuit that shares common components including the DC power source, control unit, and housing. This consolidation reduces the total number of components while maintaining the capability to simultaneously drive both polyphase and DC motors.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit acts as an intermediary that manages power distribution to both motor types. It generates appropriate control signals for each motor type and coordinates their operation, enabling simultaneous energization while using a unified control architecture rather than separate independent controllers.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate drive circuits are used for polyphase and DC motors, then simultaneous control is enabled, but the number of switching elements increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is designed with multi-functionality to generate different types of control signals - three-phase AC signals for the polyphase power converter and PWM signals for the DC power converter. This universal control approach enables simultaneous operation of both motor types without requiring entirely separate control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive circuit is designed to self-manage power distribution through the control unit, which automatically generates appropriate control signals for each power converter based on operational requirements. This self-service capability allows simultaneous control of both motor types without external intervention or complex external control circuitry.
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 simultaneous control of both three-phase and DC motors, improving operational efficiency and reliability in steering systems by allowing for coordinated power supply and reducing the need for redundant components.
Implementation Method 1
a first system including a three-phase motor and a first inverter that applies power to the three-phase motor, and a second system including one to three DC motors and a second inverter that applies power to the one to three DC motors
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic control unit, for example, a rotating machine controller, is capable of driving one three-phase motor including a first set of three-phase winding and a second set of three-phase winding and one to three direct current motors. The direct current motor is connected to a position between one phase of the first set of three-phase winding and one phase of the second set of three-phase winding without redundancy. Inverters convert a direct current electric power to a three-phase alternating current electric power by an operation of bridge-connected plural switching elements, and apply a voltage to each phase in two sets of three-phase winding. A control unit controls a supply of electric power to the three-phase motor and to the direct current motor by controlling an operation of the switching elements.