Analysis, programming software update: Motorsoft; Applied Motion Products

Two software tools recently announced for motor and drive application sectors are JMAG-Studio, distributed in the U.S. by Motorsoft, and Q Programming Software for servo drives from Applied Motion Products.

By Control Engineering Staff May 26, 2005

JMAG-Studio solves 2-D and 3-D static and transient problems to analyze magnetic-field distributions.

Two software tools recently announced for motor and drive application sectors are JMAG-Studio, distributed in the U.S. by Motorsoft , and Q Programming Software for servo drives from Applied Motion Products. Further details and links to more information are provided below.

JMAG-Studio is described as “the next-generation FEA [finite-element analysis] design simulation tool, incorporating electro-permanent magnet (PM) field analysis” for a large variety of electro-PM devices. Numerous program outputs include magnetic flux, flux density, electromagnetic force, torque, stored energy, current density, loss, current, impedance, inductance, and voltage. The software’s 3-D version uses SolidWorks files for input data.

JMAG-Studio is intended for the analysis of electric motors, generators, transformers, inductors, solenoids, sensors, and clutch brakes. It comes with an automatic mesh function that reportedly generates mesh optimal for the specific magnetic analysis—even in the hands of novice users. A circuit editor is directly tied to the magnetic field analysis; it contains many circuit elements, for example, resistors, coils, capacitors, diodes, and brushes.

JMAG-Studio, a product of Japan Research Institute, enjoys the reputation of the leading magnetic solver used by major companies and technical universities in Japan. Motorsoft—a division of Fisher Electric Technology Inc.—is exclusive U.S. distributor of the software.

Applied Motion Products (AMP) has introduced Q Programming Software for its BLu family of servo drives. The powerful, flexible programming environment reportedly allows users to create and download complex motion control and I/O handling programs directly into the drive. “Q software” can be used to store values and manipulate registers, and can operate simultaneously from stored programs as well as via serial communications. Also, “it can be used to obtain information even while a stored program runs,” says AMP.

The company specializes in cost-effective, precision motors and motion control solutions for industrial and OEM customers. Its product line consists of a full complement of stepper and brushless servo motors, positioning control electronics, and gearheads..

—Frank J. Bartos, executive editor, Control Engineering, fbartos@reedbusiness.com