El Segundo, Calif.—Greatly streamlining time-to-market by doing away with the software development phase, International Rectifier's IRMCT3UF1 is a fully-integrated high-reliability (HiRel) hybrid motor control module enabling digital, sensor-free vector control of brushless DC and permanent magnet motors rated at up to 500 VA. Combining digital control, analog interface and power blocks, the solution, based on the company's iMOTION integrated design platform is touted as the first truly inclusive unit of its kind.

"Compared to complex DSP- or microprocessor-based solutions that require position sensors and sophisticated programming, the iMOTION platform simplifies motor control design for aerospace systems," said Michael Toland, product marketing manager for Power Modules for HiRel Products. "It is estimated that up to one man-year of motor control system design can be saved eliminating the laborious code development associated with digital motion control," he added.

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In contrast to traditional modular motor drive products, which have evolved from discrete power semiconductors mounted to a heatsink with the control section, to hybrids with separate drive and power sections encapsulated within a sealed package, the HiRel iMOTION module is touted as a greatly simplified solution featuring high efficiency, reduced size, and EMI suppression. Less than half the size of a discrete solution, the module combines digital controller, memory, external interface (serial RS232/RS422 or parallel communications), gate drivers, and six power MOSFETs (three-phase MOSFET bridge) into a 2-by-4-by-0.36 inch package that's screened to MIL-STD-883 for operation in severe environmental conditions.

The module can be quickly configured to specific applications using the iMOTION ServoDesigner tool that facilitates drive parameter modification via memory-mapped registers. The control functions are contained in a pre-configured Motion Control Engine (MCE, in an ASIC device), and its algorithm accommodates motor parameter variation for compatibility with a variety of motors. The sensor-free system features optimized sinusoidal current control for current startup sequencing and low-loss, space vector pulse-width modulation (PWM) for smoother startup and minimized torque ripple for maximum motor efficiency.

Click here for the product datasheet. The IRMCT3UF1 is priced at $995 each in 100-unit quantities. Pricing is subject to change. This device is subject to U.S. export control laws and regulations.

The iMOTION integrated design platform consists of a development system, mixed-signal analog chip sets and power stages for simplying motion-control designs. Click here for additional information.

International Rectifier, 1-310-252-7105, www.irf.com