Efficient Power Conversion Corporation (EPC) has introduced the EPC91118, the first commercially available reference design using GaN (gallium nitride) IC technology specifically developed for motor joints in humanoid robots. Engineered for compact, weight-sensitive applications like robotic limbs and drone propulsion, the EPC91118 delivers up to 15 ARMS per phase from a 15 V to 55 V DC input—all within a highly compact 32 mm circular design.
At the heart of the system is the EPC23104 ePower Stage IC, a monolithic GaN device that enables high-frequency switching and reduces energy losses. The reference design integrates essential features on a single board, including current sensing, a magnetic rotor shaft encoder, RS-485 communication, and dual power supplies (5 V and 3.3 V).
Key Features of the EPC91118:
- Drives 3-phase BLDC motors with up to 15 ARMS per phase
- Integrated current/voltage sensing and high-resolution rotor encoder
- Supports RS-485 for real-time data communication
- Operates at 100 kHz PWM frequency with 50 ns dead time
- Fully integrated design for control, sensing, and power conversion
- Uses only MLCCs, eliminating bulky electrolytic capacitors
- Compact form factor: 32 mm inverter diameter, 55 mm external frame
Optimized for humanoid robot joints, the EPC91118 leverages GaN’s efficiency and small size to set a new standard for motion control in robotics. Its footprint is 66% smaller than traditional silicon-based motor drives, making it a strong candidate for next-generation robotics and drones.
For detailed specs, schematics, or sample requests, users can visit the EPC91118 product page.
