News: Microelectronics
21 January 2025
EPC launches 3-phase BLDC motor drive inverter reference design
Efficient Power Conversion Corp (EPC) of El Segundo, CA, USA — which makes enhancement-mode gallium nitride on silicon (eGaN) power field-effect transistors (FETs) and integrated circuits for power management applications — has launched the EPC91104, a high-performance 3-phase brushless DC (BLDC) motor drive inverter reference design. The design is said to be suitable for powering compact, precision motors in humanoid robots, such as those used for wrist, finger and toe movements.
The EPC91104 evaluation board uses the EPC23104 ePower stage IC, offering a maximum RDS(on) of 11mΩ and supporting DC bus voltages up to 80V. The design supports up to 14Apk steady-state and 20Apk pulsed current, ensuring reliable performance for humanoid robot applications that require fine motor control and precision.
Key features of the EPC91104 include:
- Wide voltage range: Operates between 14V and 80V, accommodating a variety of battery systems.
- Compact design: Suitable for space-constrained robotics.
- Advanced protection: Includes over-current and input under-voltage protection, ensuring reliability in demanding applications.
- Optimized efficiency: Low-distortion switching reduces torque ripple and motor noise.
“Humanoid robots demand motors with precision and compactness, and the EPC91104 is specifically designed to meet those needs for applications like small joint actuation,” says CEO Alex Lidow.
EPC9176 for higher-power applications
For higher-current requirements, such as elbow and knee motors in humanoid robots, EPC offers the EPC9176 board in the same family. With enhanced current capacity, the EPC9176 complements the EPC91104 to cover a full range of motor drive applications in humanoid robotics.
Ready for development
The EPC91104 is compatible with controller boards from leading manufacturers including Microchip, Texas Instruments, STMicroelectronics and Renesas, offering engineers flexibility in development. It is equipped with comprehensive sensing and protection features, ensuring rapid prototyping and testing.
The EPC91104 reference design boards are priced at $780. The EPC23104 is priced at $2.50 each in 3Ku reels. Reference design boards and devices are available for immediate delivery from distributor Digi-Key Corp.
EPC introduces fully configured motor drive inverter reference design
