Brushless motors thrive on DSP performance

Brushless DC (BLDC) motor technology makes it possible to achieve these requirements. Such motors combine high reliability with high efficiency for a lower cost when compared to brush motors. The BLDC motor is conventionally defined as a permanent magnet synchronous motor with a trapezoidal Back ElectroMotive Force (EMF) wave-form shape. The brushless characteristics can be applied to other motors, such as AC synchronous, stepper, switched reluctance, and AC induction.

The TI DSP controller family, TMS320C24x, was specifically designed to drive brushless motors. In a single-chip solution, these devices combine a fixed-point DSP core with control-optimized peripherals. These components perform sophisticated control schemes, as well as algorithms that can substitute for position sensors. Digital control structures eliminate drifts; and best of all, by using a programmable processor, upgrades are easily accomplished through software.

Using DSPs in motor control moves motor technology forward. DSP performance makes possible higher resolution control and minimized control loop delays. This improved control reduces torque ripples and harmonics, and improves dynamic behavior in all speed ranges. The motor design is optimized due to lower vibrations and lower power losses such as harmonic losses in the rotor. Smooth waveforms allow an optimization of power elements and input filters. These improvements result in lower system cost and better reliability.

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