Sensorless, Real-Time, Analog Measurement of Motor Torque Parameters
The University of Texas at Dallas is seeking companies interested in commercializing a novel approach to estimating motor torque parameters that provides high-resolution motor torque data at a very low cost compared to current commercial motor drivers and sensor hardware. This technology presents an alternative method to measuring motor parameters for a three-phase Brushless Direct Current (BLDC) motor from an analog circuit design approach. This imparts a small device footprint and allows for its implementation in a variety of applications; the same circuit may even be used in different motors, given a few basic data sheet parameters. These attributes greatly reduce the required time to market for all applications while also reducing manufacturing costs. The presented technology is the first known self-contained solution that eliminates the need for hardware-based sensors or motor drivers and may be implemented in a variety of systems with minor adjustments.Current standards for measuring motor torque require either a mechanical device coupled with a motor shaft or motor drivers that estimate the parameters. The mechanical devices can be costly and have large form factors, making them difficult to implement in small systems. As most standard motor drivers are unable to estimate torque, the second approach to acquiring motor parameters employs an additional high-end motor driver. That approach can provide estimated motor torque parameters, but it is more expensive, lower-resolution, and has a delay that renders it unsuitable for higher-level motor control systems. Given the versatility of the electronic circuit approach along with its ability to perform well for all levels of motor control applications, the competitive benefits of implementing this low-cost solution are clear. Technical Summary:The present design provides real-time measurements for motor torque parameters at near-infinite resolution (>1000Hz), which is essential for higher-level control systems (e.g. robotics, actuation systems, etc.). Standard motor drivers equipped with the ability to measure motor torque have low resolution, at roughly 50Hz, due to the serial connections used. While shaft-style torque sensors provide the same resolution as the analog approach, they typically cost over $5000 and also require additional bulky hardware. The described sensorless approach clearly outperforms the current state-of-the-art in its ability to provide motor current measurements and current control. Value Proposition:The presented electronic circuit device provides a low-cost approach for obtaining real-time, high-resolution measurements of key parameters for motor control with a small form factor that allows for versatile applications. Applications:This technology may be implemented for any three-phase motor that requires motor current measurements for local motor current loop control and also in automated systems where motor torque measurements are needed for higher-level control systems. Applications Include:Robotic systems – From hobbyist-level to commercial implementationsMotor Control – Integration into motor drivers or onboard controllersSmall-package & high-accuracy motors and actuators Key Benefits:Small Form Factor – Electronic circuit device is self-contained and smaller than the current devices used for motor torque measurementsLow-Cost - Sensorless estimation of motor torque eliminates need for expensive mechanical device torque sensorsReal-time - Provides accurate measurements without delay that meet requirements for higher level control systemsHigh-Resolution – Achieves near-infinite resolution (>1000Hz), as shaft-style torque sensors do - but at a lower cost and smaller size Inventors:David QuinteroRobert Gregg, Ph.D.Hanqi Zhu IP Status: Patent pending.Licensing Opportunity: This technology is available for exclusive or non-exclusive licensing.ID Number: MP-15086Contact: otc@utdallas.edu
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