Motor Controllers Govern Variable-Speed Drives

Infineon Technologies’ IMC100 series, a family of iMOTION motor control ICs, is described as a ready-to-use solution for high-efficiency variable speed drives. By integrating both the required hardware and control algorithm, the IMC100 enables the shortest time to market for any motor system at the lowest system and development cost. Additionally, the devices improve the performance of the motor algorithm and add functionality like ready-to-use PFC algorithms. Key applications for the new iMOTION family are motors for major home appliances, air-condition, fans, and pumps.

 

The iMOTION IMC100 features Field Oriented Control (FOC) for permanent magnet synchronous motors. It uses space vector PWM with sinusoidal signals to achieve highest energy efficiency and can utilize single or leg shunt current feedback. Infineon's IC provides protection features like over- and under-voltage, over-current, rotor lock and others to safeguard power stage and motor. As a standalone motor controller, it allows for maximum flexibility addressing drives across a wide voltage range, no matter if battery-driven or line-operated. The proprietary PC tools MCEWizard and MCEDesigner reduce the implementation effort for variable speed drive. It is boiled down to the simple configuration of the MCE for the respective motor.

 

Samples of the IMC100 are available. For greater enlightenment, checkout the iMOTION IMC100 datasheets and the evaluation kit.