Rapid Prototyping for Motor Drives

When developing a motion control system for a production line or piece of equipment, a common issue for engineers and integrators is having to mix and match components from multiple suppliers. To ease this process, Maxon has added modular capabilities to its Parvalux line of customizable geared motors to provide prototype motors at a rapid pace. 

 

The strategy behind Parvalux lies in how Maxon has designed and manufactured a series of modular components that can be mixed and matched, enabling users get a paired system from one manufacturer rather than piecing together components such as motors, gearheads, brakes and encoders from multiple sources. Designing a Parvalux protoype motor drive involves a three-step selection process using Maxon’s online configurator. 

 

Included in the Parvalux line of modular drive systems are permanent magnet DC motors— small motors with high output for their size; brushless DC motors, which require no maintenance and offer high starting torques, power density and quiet operation; and single-phase or three-phase AC motors. All these motor types are available with inline or right-angle gearboxes. Maxon’s line of AC/DC motors are available in series-wound or shunt-would versions. 

 

Although every application can be different, designers need to focus on voltage, speed and torque in every case, said Lewis Bowles, Parvalux business development manager. Using a modular system provides a range of options that allow designers to determine their required output performance and make a quick selection. Once this is done, users of the online configurator can fine tune their selection with accessories such as brakes, encoders, shaft extension kits and controllers. 

 

Also offered in the Parvalux line is the SC 50/15 controller, which ensures control over speed, torque and motor efficiency. 

 

Bowles pointed out that the Parvalux modular range was introduced to support rapid prototyping of motor drives. “Although we offer fully customized solutions, it [the Parvalux configurator] can be a great tool for engineers to choose from our ready-to-use combinations to get their product designed faster for testing,” he said.

 

He also highlighted four specific benefits for OEMs using Parvalux:

 

For end users, Bowles said the key benefits of Parvalux motor drives include their design for optimal efficiency, which can lead to energy savings and lower operational costs, and compact design for applications where space is limited.