`Revolutionary` motion chips need no programming

International Rectifier has developed a pair of chips that it claims will revolutionise the task of configuring motion control algorithms for permanent magnet and AC induction motors. The chips contain a "motion control engine" that eliminates the need for software programming, allowing users to speed up the development of products based on these chips.

The chips are part of IR`s iMotion motion control platform. One (IRMCK203) is designed for sensorless drives based on sinusoidal currents, and can achieve speeds of up to 100,000 rpm, and speed ranges wider than 20:1. They combine low-loss space vector PWM control, with a "unique" starting algorithm to minimise torque and ripple, and the boost efficiency when controlling permanent magnet AC motors.

The second chip (IRMCK201) provides closed-loop current and velocity control for servo applications, using encoder feedback. It has a 130kHz output for wide bandwidth and rapid acceleration.