Motor control: the variable-speed revolution

摘要

Cheap, powerful silicon is transforming 19th-century motor technology for the 21st century. The payoffs? Higher performance, increased efficiency, and quieter operation for home appliances. "A bunch of things are coming together." That's how V Sukumar, a senior applications manager for Fairchild Semiconductor, begins a discussion of trends in motor control for the white-goods market. Several factors-semiconductor and motor technologies, economics, consumer preferences, and politics-are driving intelligent motor control into more products, including washing machines, refrigerators, HVAC systems, and even vacuum cleaners.