Master Thesis: Development of a Dual-Motor Control Strategy

Introduction


The integration of dual electrical motors with a reduction gearbox plays a pivotal role in various industrial applications, such as robotics, automotive, and manufacturing systems. The simultaneous operation of two motors is often essential to achieve high torque and maintain system efficiency. However, the challenge arises when one of the motors is overloaded, leading to decreased performance and potential damage to the system. This master's thesis proposal aims to explore innovative concepts for controlling two electrical motors connected to a reduction gearbox to prevent overloading and optimize overall system performance.


Suitable background


Mechanical/Design Engineering with interest in the field of multivariable feedback control and adaptive control.


Description of thesis work


Background


The concept of using two motors in tandem with a reduction gearbox is widely used in industrial settings. However, the coordination and synchronization of these motors to prevent overloading are areas that require further exploration. Overloading one motor while the other remains underutilized not only affects efficiency but also reduces the lifespan of the motors and the gearbox. The proposed research will address this issue by developing a control strategy to distribute the load evenly between the two motors and prevent overloading.


Research Objective


The primary objectives of this master thesis work are as follows:
Develop a Load Balancing Strategy: Investigate and develop a load balancing strategy to ensure that both motors share the load evenly, thus preventing overloading.
Real-time Monitoring System: Create a real-time monitoring system that can detect when one motor is nearing its overload limit and trigger corrective actions.
Simulation and Experimental Validation: Implement and validate the developed control strategy through simulations and practical experiments on a test rig.
Performance Optimization: Analyze the overall system performance, including efficiency and energy consumption, and seek opportunities for optimization.



Methodology


To achieve the objectives, the following research methods and steps are recommended:
Literature Review: Conduct a comprehensive review of existing literature on motor control, load balancing strategies, and reduction gearbox applications to gain insights into current research and best practices.
Load Balancing Algorithm: Develop an algorithm that considers various parameters, such as motor specifications, gearbox reduction ratio, and the load applied, to balance the load between the two motors.
Real-time Monitoring System: Design a real-time monitoring system that utilizes sensors and feedback mechanisms to detect potential overloads and automatically adjust motor power.
Simulation and Experimentation: Implement the proposed control strategy in simulation software and validate it on a physical test rig with dual motors connected to a reduction gearbox.



Timeline


This project is expected to be completed within 6 months.
We are looking for a team of two students with knowledge of electromobility.
You are curious, open-minded and are interested in collaborating with people with another background than yourself. During the master thesis you are mainly located at our plant in Eskilstuna. The recruitment process is ongoing, the positions can be filled before the application period has expired.


Thesis Level: Master


Language: English


Starting date: January 17


Number of students: 2


Tutor
André Sollander, Design Engineer, +46 735 585931