Chip Talk > Revolutionizing Robotics: QPT's MicroDyno and the Future of GaN-Based Motor Drives
Published August 27, 2025
In the ever-evolving world of robotics, precision and efficiency are paramount. QPT's recent unveiling of their MicroDyno platform highlights a significant advancement in the field with the introduction of GaN (Gallium Nitride)-based motor drives. This technology is pushing the boundaries by enhancing performance, reducing costs, and opening new avenues for robotics and automation.
QPT introduces a novel approach with its MicroDyno, a testing platform that employs ultra-high frequency GaN switches. Operating at an impressive 1 MHz, the platform offers a transformative potential over conventional designs, typically limited to 4–16 kHz frequencies.
The key differentiator of the MicroDyno platform lies in its ability to deliver true sine wave voltage to motors, which traditional PWM systems struggle to achieve effectively, especially at lower frequencies. This high-frequency operation not only enhances the quality of energy transfer but also mitigates electromagnetic interference (EMI), bearing currents, and reduces the dependency on complex sensor systems.
The potential of GaN technology in robotic drives heralds significant efficiency gains; it surpasses traditional systems by requiring smaller, cost-effective filtering solutions that do not compromise performance. These benefits are crucial for applications in robotics, where precision and reliability must meet the demands of increasingly sophisticated applications.
Rob Gwynne, CTO and founder of QPT, emphasizes the capability of the MicroDyno to correct torque ripple and cogging in real-time, far exceeding the precision of expensive encoder-based systems. By utilizing GaN transistors, MicroDyno delivers a significant leap in the smooth operation of robotic systems, presenting affordable yet powerful solutions.
The integration of AI into these drives can result in even greater advances, allowing systems to monitor and optimize performance across large networks of motors. This opens up possibilities for enhanced industrial automation and sophisticated control without increased complexity or costs.
While engineered initially for robotics, the scalability of MicroDyno's technology via QPT's qAttach packaging cannot be understated. According to QPT, the transition to 400V and 800V systems is seamless, unlocking potential applications in industrial automation, HVAC, and electric vehicles. The advantages of GaN in delivering energy efficiency and operational precision make it an attractive option for various sectors where energy consumption and environmental concerns are paramount.
As industries look to future-proof their operations, investments in GaN-based technologies like MicroDyno provide a competitive edge. Simon Hart, director and CTIO of InnCat, remarked on the persistent challenges of cogging torque that can now be addressed with this innovative platform. With ongoing advancements, the MicroDyno platform may very well become the new standard for motor drive technology.
QPT's MicroDyno is not just a technological innovation; it represents a paradigm shift that can redefine expectations in robotics and beyond. As the use of GaN technology expands, industries can expect enhanced performance, reduced costs, and increased integration capabilities. The journey towards smarter, more efficient machines has never looked more promising, with QPT paving the way for a more integrated and cost-effective future.
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