Vectrix Corp. has selected the TMS320LF2401A™ digital signal controller from Texas Instruments Inc. (TI, Dallas, TX) for its electric motor scooters. By pairing TI's digital signal processing (DSP)-based motor control technology with a high-performance, custom-designed, brushless servo motor from Parker SBC, part of the Parker Automation division, the new Vectrix scooter delivers a level of performance and acceleration typically only found in a 250 cc gasoline-powered motorcycle.
The LF2401A controller enables Vectrix to implement advanced motor control functions such as tuning the motor's phase angle advance. The functions enhance Vectrix's scooter performance by providing up to 75 miles (120 km) of travel at 25 mph (40 kph) before the battery has to be recharged. The programmability of the LF2401A makes it possible for Vectrix to tune its system for a wide variety of motors and performance characteristics.
Prototypes of the Vectrix scooter are now being test-driven on the streets of major European cities. Production manufacturing is scheduled for spring 2005 for Europe, with Asia and other regions to follow.
