Motor control ICs integrate hardware, control algorithm for variable speed drives

Infineon Technologies is releasing the IMC100 series, a new family of iMOTION motor control ICs. It is a ready-to-use solution for the fast-growing market of high-efficiency variable speed drives. By integrating both the required hardware and control algorithm, the IMC100 enables the shortest time to market for any motor system at the lowest system and development cost. Additionally, the next generation of Infineon’s Motion Control Engine (MCE) further improves the performance of the motor algorithm and adds functionality like ready-to-use PFC algorithms. Key applications for the new iMOTION family are motors for major home appliances, air-condition, fans, and pumps.

iMOTION IMC100 features Field Oriented Control (FOC) for permanent magnet synchronous motors. It uses space vector PWM with sinusoidal signals to achieve highest energy efficiency and can utilize single or leg shunt current feedback. Infineon’s IC provides protection features like over- and under-voltage, over-current, rotor lock and others to safeguard power stage and motor. As a standalone motor controller it allows for maximum flexibility addressing drives across a wide voltage range, no matter if battery-driven or line-operated. The proprietary PC tools MCEWizard and MCEDesigner reduce the implementation effort for variable speed drive. It is boiled down to the simple configuration of the MCE for the respective motor.

iMOTION products have a proven track record of more than ten years, providing integration for highly efficient and low cost motor control. The IMC100 devices are the first members of the next generation of integrated motor control solutions based on an innovative new platform taking full advantage of the leading portfolio of power semiconductors of Infineon.

Samples of the IMC100 are available; start of production is planned for March 2018. Rapid prototyping of a drive inverter is enabled via two new control boards for the iMOTION Modular Application Design Kit (MADK). They will also be available in March 2018. MADK is a modular and flexible development platform providing a wide range of control and power board options for motor drive applications of up to 1 kW.