Importance

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Abstract

Dynamic operation of a brushless N-phase DC motor results in a high torque constant (Kt) line-to-line phase configuration during spindle motor power-up, and in a lower effective Kt configuration once normal run speed operation is attained. When the spindle motor is rotating below a predetermined run speed, drive transistors coupled to the motor phases cause at least two phases to be series-coupled between the source of operating voltage and ground. This ensures a large initial torque because the Kt contribution of each series-coupled phase is combined vectorially. Once run speed is achieved, effective Kt is lowered by causing the drive transistors to energize but a single phase, reconfiguring the spindle motor for line-to-neutral operation. So doing reduces the effective back electromagnetic force, permitting sufficient run current from a given magnitude operating voltage source. The present invention permits designing the spindle motor Kt for line-to-neutral normal run speed conditions, while ensuring a large start-up Kt by starting the motor line-to-line.

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First Claim