Controller powers up smaller electric vehicles

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Dec 13, 2005

The Model 1234 is a mid-power range AC induction motor controller designed for smaller industrial vehicles and larger pallet movers.

At CeMat 2005 in Germany, Curtis Instruments introduced the latest addition to its line of AC induction motor controllers.

The Model 1234, a mid-power range controller designed for smaller industrial vehicles and larger pallet movers.

With 24-48V battery systems, 200-350A 2min current ratings, the Model 1234 is targeted for a wide range of battery powered vehicles.

The Curtis AC product line now covers all power ranges: the Model 1230 is a lower power controller with features and price points that satisfy the requirements of smaller EVs, such as pallet movers and floor maintenance equipment - 24V up to 150A and 24V up to 200A with optional CAN bus.

Models 1236 and 1238 are fully featured CANbus-compatible controllers for mid range and larger EVs, from counterbalance lift trucks to aerial platforms, and people carriers.

Both models are suitable for single/dual drive and pump control systems.

Model 1236 power ranges are 24-36V up to 500A, 48V up to 350A and 80V up to 300A.

Model 1238 Power ranges are 24-36V up to 600A, 48V up to 650A and 80V up to 550A.

The new Model 1234 offers high frequency and silent operation with a powerful operating system allowing parallel processing of vehicle control tasks, motor control tasks and user configurable programmable logic.

Advanced pulsewidth modulation technology provides efficient use of battery voltage, low motor harmonics, low torque ripple and minimised switching losses.

Key to the flexibility and power of Models 1234, 1236 and 1238 is their incorporation of Vehicle Control Language (VCL), a programming language developed by Curtis specifically for industrial EVs.

A first in the industry and a hallmark of optimal design, VCL combines a best-in-class AC motor controller with a powerful programmable logic controller (PLC).

VCL is designed for industrial vehicle control and comes with predefined functions, such as PID, battery monitoring, I/O control and CANbus communications.

This high level, easy-to-use language provides unique input and output features, integrates functions and controls the overall operation of the vehicle.

Both OEM designers and Curtis engineers can write VCL programs to customise and create that critical market differentiation for the product.

To allow upgrades in the field or at the OEM manufacturing site, Models 1234, 1236 and 1238 employ Flash programmable memory.

This memory can be erased and re-written without opening the controller, for modification at any stage of development, from quick prototypes to field updates at the customer site.

These models also feature field oriented motor control, allowing greater control at lower speeds and maximised torque efficiency across a wider speed range.

AC controllers can be matched to most AC induction motors for optimal response, feel and performance.

All Curtis AC controllers are designed to operate with the Curtis Model 1311 handheld programmer, which features intuitive menus, an ergonomic design and a large LCD graphic screen.

For real time information on the vehicle, the controllers can connect to the Curtis Model 840 LCD, which provides a cost effective means to communicate battery status, vehicle use time, maintenance scheduling and error codes.