How to Use SimpleFOC mini: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The SimpleFOC Mini is a compact and efficient motor control board designed for driving brushless DC (BLDC) motors using advanced field-oriented control (FOC) techniques. This board is ideal for applications requiring precise motor control, such as robotics, automation, gimbals, and small electric vehicles. Its small form factor and robust design make it a versatile choice for both hobbyists and professionals.

Common applications include:

• Robotics (e.g., robotic arms, mobile robots)
• Gimbal stabilization systems
• Small electric vehicles
• Automation systems requiring precise motor control

The SimpleFOC Mini is designed to provide reliable and efficient motor control. Below are its key technical specifications:

The SimpleFOC Mini features a straightforward pin layout for easy integration into your projects. Below is the pin configuration:

1. Power Supply: Connect a power source (6V to 25V) to the VIN and GND pins. Ensure the power supply can handle the current requirements of your motor.
2. Motor Connection: Connect the three phases of your BLDC motor to the MOTOR_A, MOTOR_B, and MOTOR_C pins.
3. Control Signal: Use either PWM, UART, I2C, or SPI to send control signals to the board. For basic setups, PWM is the easiest to use.
4. Enable the Driver: Pull the EN pin high to enable the motor driver.
5. Programming: If using an Arduino UNO, connect the communication pins (e.g., UART or I2C) to the corresponding pins on the Arduino.

• Heat Dissipation: The board can handle up to 5A continuously, but ensure proper ventilation or a heatsink for high-current applications.
• Motor Compatibility: Ensure your BLDC motor is compatible with the voltage and current ratings of the SimpleFOC Mini.
• Signal Integrity: Use short and shielded wires for communication signals to minimize noise.
• Power Supply: Use a stable and noise-free power supply to avoid erratic motor behavior.

Below is an example of how to control a BLDC motor using the SimpleFOC Mini with an Arduino UNO:

#include <SimpleFOC.h> // Include the SimpleFOC library

// Define motor and driver objects
BLDCMotor motor = BLDCMotor(7); // Motor with 7 pole pairs
BLDCDriver3PWM driver = BLDCDriver3PWM(9, 10, 11); // PWM pins for motor phases

void setup() {
  // Initialize driver
  driver.voltage_power_supply = 12; // Set power supply voltage
  driver.init();
  motor.linkDriver(&driver);

  // Set motor parameters
  motor.voltage_limit = 6; // Limit motor voltage
  motor.controller = MotionControlType::velocity; // Velocity control mode

  // Initialize motor
  motor.init();
  Serial.begin(115200); // Start serial communication
  Serial.println("Motor ready!");
}

void loop() {
  // Set motor velocity (e.g., 2 rad/s)
  motor.move(2);
}

Note: Install the SimpleFOC library in your Arduino IDE before uploading the code.

1. Motor Not Spinning:

   • Ensure the EN pin is pulled high.
   • Verify the motor connections (MOTOR_A, MOTOR_B, MOTOR_C).
   • Check the power supply voltage and current ratings.

2. Overheating:

   • Reduce the motor load or current limit.
   • Improve ventilation or add a heatsink to the board.

3. Erratic Motor Behavior:

   • Check for noise in the power supply or signal lines.
   • Ensure proper grounding and short signal wires.

4. Communication Issues:

   • Verify the baud rate for UART communication.
   • Check the wiring for I2C or SPI connections.

• Can I use the SimpleFOC Mini with a stepper motor? No, the SimpleFOC Mini is designed specifically for BLDC motors.

• What is the maximum motor speed supported? The maximum speed depends on the motor's specifications and the control algorithm but is typically limited by the board's processing speed and power supply.

• Can I use a battery as the power source? Yes, as long as the battery voltage is within the 6V to 25V range and can supply sufficient current.

• Is the board compatible with other microcontrollers? Yes, the SimpleFOC Mini can be used with various microcontrollers, including STM32, ESP32, and Arduino boards.