Implementation and Comparison of Multi-motor Synchronization Control Strategies with a Distributed Topology

Year 2025, Volume: 17 Issue: 4, 197 - 212, 31.12.2025

Nilay Şavklıyıldız , Övünç Polat

https://doi.org/10.24107/ijeas.1774094

Abstract

Multi-motor drive systems are widely used in modern applications that require precise synchronization of speed or torque, particularly when motors are mechanically coupled to a common load. A lack of proper coordination leads to unbalanced torques, mechanical stress, and vibrations, which ultimately reduce system efficiency. Maintaining reliable synchronization remains challenging due to system asymmetries and the limitations of conventional centralized or master–follower approaches. This study introduces a control strategy for three Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (PMSMs) rigidly coupled to a single shaft. In the experimental setup, three synchronization methods were implemented: Parallel, Torque-Follower, and the proposed Multilateral control. Each motor is driven by an independent controller and driver unit. Depending on the selected topology; these units perform either torque control or integrated velocity and torque control. Comparative results show that the proposed Multilateral control improves torque and velocity synchronization. It reduces mean squared errors compared to Torque-Follower method and provides more balanced torque distribution than Parallel under both no-load and loaded conditions. These findings show its potential as a scalable solution for advanced multi-motor applications.

Keywords

Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor , Multi-Motor Synchronization , Multilateral Control , Torque Follower Control , Parallel control

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