Product category:
Industrial Drives/Controls
News Release from: Curtis Instruments (UK) | Subject: Models 1236/1238 AC induction motor controllers
Edited by the Engineeringtalk Editorial
Team on 18 September 2000
AC motor controllers aimed at latest EV
designs
The first of a new family of AC induction motor controllers from Curtis are Models 1236 and 1238, developed as a system solution for vehicle design and covering a voltage rating of 24-80V
The first of a new family of AC induction motor controllers from Curtis are Models 1236 and 1238 Incorporating the latest technologies, Curtis AC controllers offer superior performance, reliability, flexibility, and value
This article was originally published on Engineeringtalk on 18 Sep 2000 at 8.00am (UK)
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Models 1236 and 1238 feature programmability and options that will give our customers a long-lasting edge in the marketplace.
AC motors have many advantages over DC types, including increased reliability, wider speed range and lower maintenance and motor costs.
AC induction motors also allow more accurate control and full regeneration capability.
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With the recent advancements in microprocessors and power switching devices, Curtis has been able to develop highly efficient AC induction motor controllers that fully meet market performance and cost demands, making them attractive for modern EV design.
Curtis AC motor controllers have three key advantages: packaging, advance control and flexibility.
Our Curtis PMC engineers have incorporated superior thermal management technologies, resulting in substantially reduced controller size and improved reliability.
A sealed design protects the unit from harsh environments and increases product life.
Curtis developed complex software that provides accurate closed loop speed control and advanced field orientation control.
This improves system-operating efficiency and enhances vehicle performance.
As for flexibility, FLASH memory is used to upgrade the software in the field without dismantling the unit.
OEMs can develop a custom "feel" to their vehicle applications by utilizing Curtis' on-board Vehicle Control Language (VCL)-a Basic-like, easy-to-learn language with a library of predefined functions for industrial EVs.
These custom VCL programs are loaded in Models 1236 and 1238, executing its instructions without affecting the motor control algorithms.
In addition to a CAN bus interface, a multiplexer interface and a multi-function Model 840 Display interface, the AC controllers feature a number of inputs and outputs.
Final touches include built-in functions for BDI (battery discharge indicator), hour meter and maintenance monitor, which can be output to a display.
The new AC controllers are being developed as a system solution for vehicle design.
The two new model groups cover a voltage rating of 24-80V and current rating of 200-800 Amps.
They are targeted for a wide variety of industrial and light on-road vehicle applications.
These latest examples in motor controller technology will be available as prototypes third quarter 2000 and production units first quarter 2001.
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