Save time and minimize risks

As we move towards Industry 4.0, the simulation of drive systems is becoming increasingly important in order to simplify product development work. Faulhaber DC motors can now be used to test how a drive behaves in real-world applications without any hardware.

With a library for the Matlab Simulink simulation software, the drive specialist offers the option of simulating the dynamic behavior of its drive systems at an early stage of development. It only takes a few clicks to "try out" different drives. Simulink offers a block diagram environment with a graphical interface in which simulations can be created with virtual models without any programming effort. The component library contains all of the brushless DC motors in the portfolio with the appropriate encoders and motion controllers. Relationships can be described using mathematical equations. These equations for the subsystems are then connected to one another in the model, just like the individual parts when assembling a physical motor.

Integrating sensor systems and control

Thanks to the modeling of typical influences of various sensor systems, it is possible to simulate a realistic speed curve. The user can also use the drive models to develop their own controllers to control the brushless DC motors. Although this does not replace testing on physical motors, the time required and the risks involved in development can be significantly reduced. There are modules for torque, speed and position control for simulating a controlled drive system.

The basis is provided by Generation 3.0 motion controllers, which include the MC 3001, MC 3603 and MC 5005 models. In conjunction with a motor from the library and a configurable load inertia, the same control parameters can be determined that are used in a physical motion controller. For example, it is possible to determine realistic positioning times, adjust the control parameters or compare the behavior of the drive when using different concepts.

The Simulink library is available to users online. It is intended as a supplement to existing tools such as the Drive Calculator. It can be used both when selecting a drive system and for model-based integration into the actual application. The simulation can also be used to create a digital twin of the drive and use it for extended functions in the context of IoT and Industry 4.0.