Motion control drive discrete approach

Investigating the technical considerations for analog components used in motion control drives

Industrial drives are a crucial component of any industrial automation deployment. Three-phase brushless DC (BLDC), permanent magnet synchronous (PMSMS) and induction motors are extremely popular and reliable methods of achieving motion, whether for a conveyor belt or a robotic arm. Motion control drives provide the essential power supply and mechanical drive functions. However, motors and servos experience wear like any mechanical part, which ultimately might lead to failure. Predictive maintenance regimes assist in keeping the plant operating reliably while reducing the costs associated with disruptive and unplanned downtime. One technique used to monitor motor wear is a condition monitoring approach that uses ultrasound to detect changes in a motor's noise signature.

This article explores the importance of the motor drive power supply, current sensing of the drive circuits, and using ultrasound for condition-based monitoring.