Motion Control System Design with Multi-Language Simulation Tools - Parts 1 and 2

While various analysis options for motion control systems have been available for many years, only multi-language simulation can completely handle the diverse modeling requirements of motion control systems in a "holistic" manner. This approach allows for rapid development of new models using hardware description languages (HDLs) which go beyond the capabilities of SPICE yet still supports the use of existing SPICE models.

In this two-part paper, an induction motor control system is fully developed and analyzed using a multi-language design and analysis tool suite. This type of system can be found in many applications, including aerospace, industrial control, and electric/hybrid-electric vehicles. We will discuss field-oriented control techniques in detail and develop VHDL-AMS induction motor models using conservation-based behavioral and math-based block diagram approaches. We also verify the functionality of our field-oriented control approach using the behavioral motor model. We then partition the DSP Controller subsystem into those pieces which will be implemented in hardware and those that will be implemented in software. We then simulate Z-domain transfer functions along with actual C software algorithms for overall system analysis.

In additional to the paper, design files required to analyze the systems discussed are included. This zip file also contains an additional file (pdf) which gives brief simulation instructions for using SystemVision, Mentor Graphics mixed-signal modeling and simulation environment.