Vertiq is introducing version 0.0.5 of VSpin, a new firmware style for its G2 motor modules that adds torque and motor-current commands, automatic field weakening, and revised control and safety functions.
VSpin enables motor control using torque or motor-current targets in addition to the previously available voltage and velocity commands. Its closed-loop velocity and position controllers output motor-current commands rather than voltage commands, changing the units used for controller gains and potentially requiring systems to be re-tuned.
The firmware also introduces optional automatic field weakening across all supported G2 modules. This can allow motors to operate at speeds above those normally achievable at a given supply voltage, although the increased performance comes with reduced efficiency and must be used carefully.
VSpin also changes how several module safety functions operate. Derating protections now limit the maximum permitted motor current instead of immediately reducing the incoming command, while a motor-current slew-rate limiter is available in place of the previous voltage-based limiter.
Version 0.0.5 is available for customer evaluation across the 40-06 in 370Kv and 770Kv variants, the 40-14 in 400Kv, the 60-08 in 150Kv, 300Kv and 660Kv, the 81-08 G2 in 85Kv, 140Kv and 240Kv, and the 81-17 G2 in 110Kv.
Vertiq is developing VSpin alongside its existing stock speed and servo firmware, which remain the company’s primary and more extensively tested firmware options. VSpin is not intended to replace or obsolete them and is not a direct drop-in upgrade for systems already using those firmware styles.
Customers with established speed or servo firmware configurations are therefore advised to continue using them unless their application would benefit specifically from capabilities such as field weakening or direct torque control. Those evaluating a firmware option earlier in development may consider VSpin where these features justify the additional configuration and tuning requirements.
