How to Use SimpleFOCShield2.0.4: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The SimpleFOCShield2.0.4 is a versatile motor control shield designed by SimpleFOC for driving brushless DC (BLDC) motors using advanced Field Oriented Control (FOC) techniques. This shield is compatible with a wide range of microcontrollers, including Arduino boards, and provides an efficient and user-friendly solution for precise motor control. It features integrated power management, robust protection mechanisms, and flexible configuration options, making it ideal for robotics, automation, and other motion control applications.

• Robotics and autonomous vehicles
• CNC machines and 3D printers
• Gimbals and camera stabilization systems
• Industrial automation and conveyor systems
• Educational and research projects involving motor control

The SimpleFOCShield2.0.4 has a straightforward pin layout for easy integration with microcontrollers. Below is the pin configuration:

1. Power Supply: Connect a DC power source (12V to 24V) to the VIN and GND pins. Ensure the power supply can handle the current requirements of your motor.
2. Motor Connection: Connect the three motor phases (A, B, C) to the corresponding M1_A, M1_B, M1_C (or M2_A, M2_B, M2_C) pins.
3. Microcontroller Connection:
   • Connect the PWM, DIR, and EN pins to the appropriate GPIO pins on your microcontroller.
   • For advanced control, connect the I2C, UART, or SPI pins as needed.
4. Programming: Use the SimpleFOC library to configure and control the motor. Install the library in your Arduino IDE or other supported development environments.

• Heat Management: The shield can handle up to 10A per phase, but prolonged high-current operation may require additional cooling (e.g., a heatsink or fan).
• Motor Compatibility: Ensure the motor's voltage and current ratings are within the shield's specifications.
• Power Supply: Use a stable and adequately rated power supply to avoid voltage drops or damage to the shield.
• Wiring: Keep motor and power wires as short as possible to minimize noise and interference.
• Library Configuration: Use the SimpleFOC library to set up parameters such as motor type, pole pairs, and control mode.

Below is an example of how to control a BLDC motor using the SimpleFOCShield2.0.4 and the SimpleFOC library:

#include <SimpleFOC.h>

// 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);

  // Configure motor
  motor.controller = ControlType::velocity; // Velocity control mode
  motor.voltage_limit = 6; // Limit motor voltage
  motor.velocity_limit = 20; // Limit motor speed (rad/s)
  motor.init();

  // Start monitoring
  Serial.begin(115200);
  Serial.println("Motor ready!");
}

void loop() {
  // Set motor velocity (e.g., 10 rad/s)
  motor.move(10);
}

• Replace the pin numbers in the code with the actual pins connected to your shield.
• Adjust the motor parameters (e.g., pole pairs, voltage limit) based on your specific motor.

1. Motor Not Spinning:

   • Check the power supply voltage and current ratings.
   • Verify motor connections (A, B, C phases) and ensure they are secure.
   • Ensure the enable pin (EN1 or EN2) is set HIGH.

2. Overheating:

   • Reduce the motor's voltage or current limit in the software.
   • Add a heatsink or fan to the shield for better cooling.

3. Erratic Motor Behavior:

   • Verify the motor parameters (e.g., pole pairs) in the code.
   • Check for loose or noisy connections in the wiring.

4. Communication Issues:

   • Ensure the correct communication protocol (I2C, UART, SPI) is selected and configured.
   • Double-check the wiring and pin assignments for the communication interface.

Q: Can I use this shield with a stepper motor?
A: No, the SimpleFOCShield2.0.4 is specifically designed for BLDC motors. For stepper motors, consider using a dedicated stepper motor driver.

Q: What is the maximum motor speed supported?
A: The maximum speed depends on the motor's specifications and the control parameters. Ensure the motor's velocity limit is set appropriately in the software.

Q: Can I use a 5V power supply?
A: No, the shield requires a power supply in the range of 12V to 24V.

Q: Is the shield compatible with Raspberry Pi?
A: Yes, the shield can be used with Raspberry Pi via PWM or communication interfaces like I2C, SPI, or UART. However, additional configuration may be required.