Laboratory Centrifuge Control System
An STM32-based embedded control platform for laboratory centrifuges featuring PID motor control, encoder feedback, touch controls, and precise speed regulation up to 2500 RPM.
Project Overview
The High-Speed Laboratory Centrifuge Control System was developed as a complete embedded control solution for laboratory centrifuge equipment used in medical and research environments.
The system provides precise speed regulation, closed-loop PID control, real-time motor feedback, and a modern user interface while maintaining safe and reliable operation. Designed around a custom STM32-based control board, the platform combines embedded firmware, custom electronics, motor control, and a production-ready enclosure into a compact and cost-effective solution.
Client Requirements
The client required a control platform capable of:
- Controlling a 220 VDC centrifuge motor.
- Operating from 1000 RPM up to 2500 RPM.
- Maintaining stable speed under varying loads.
- Providing accurate closed-loop control.
- Displaying operating information on an LCD.
- Supporting touch-button operation.
- Detecting abnormal operating conditions.
- Reducing manufacturing cost.
- Providing reliable long-term operation.
- Supporting local manufacturing.
Our Solution
Metanoia designed and developed a complete embedded control platform including:
- Custom STM32 Control Board.
- Closed-Loop PID Algorithm.
- High-Speed Encoder Feedback.
- 220 VDC Motor Driver Interface.
- LCD User Interface.
- Capacitive Touch Buttons.
- Embedded Firmware.
- Custom 3D Printed Enclosure.
- Production-Ready PCB Design.
- Functional Testing.
The system delivers smooth motor acceleration, accurate speed regulation, and reliable performance while significantly reducing production cost compared to imported solutions.
Main Features
Precision PID Speed Control
The embedded controller continuously regulates motor speed using a closed-loop PID algorithm for stable operation across the full speed range.
Encoder Feedback
A dedicated encoder continuously measures motor speed, allowing accurate real-time feedback and precise RPM regulation.
High-Speed Motor Control
Supports a 220 VDC motor operating from 1000 RPM to 2500 RPM with smooth acceleration and deceleration.
LCD User Interface
A clear LCD display provides operators with:
- Current RPM
- Operating Status
- Target Speed
- System Messages
- Fault Information
Touch Control Panel
Capacitive touch buttons eliminate mechanical wear while providing a modern and reliable user experience.
Custom Embedded Electronics
The complete controller is based on a custom STM32 PCB designed for industrial reliability and efficient manufacturing.
Compact Mechanical Design
A custom 3D-printed enclosure was developed to protect the electronics while simplifying installation and maintenance.
Engineering Challenges
Accurate Speed Regulation
Maintaining constant motor speed under changing load conditions required careful tuning of the PID control algorithm.
Encoder Integration
Real-time encoder feedback was optimized to achieve stable closed-loop control with minimal latency.
High-Voltage Motor Control
Special attention was given to safely controlling the 220 VDC motor while maintaining electrical isolation and system reliability.
Cost Optimization
The hardware architecture was designed to significantly reduce manufacturing cost without compromising performance.
Product Reliability
The controller was validated for continuous operation in laboratory environments where precision and reliability are critical.
Development Process
1. Requirements Analysis
The centrifuge’s mechanical characteristics, motor specifications, and performance requirements were analyzed.
2. Electronic Hardware Design
A custom STM32-based controller was developed with motor control, encoder input, LCD interface, and touch controls.
3. PCB Design
A production-ready PCB was optimized for reliability, manufacturability, and compact integration.
4. Embedded Firmware Development
Firmware was developed to manage:
- PID Speed Control
- Encoder Processing
- Motor Control
- LCD Interface
- Touch Input
- Fault Detection
- Safety Monitoring
5. Mechanical Design
A custom 3D-printed enclosure was designed to integrate the electronics into the centrifuge system.
6. Testing & Validation
The complete platform underwent speed accuracy, stability, endurance, and functional testing to ensure reliable laboratory operation.