Master Thesis- Development of a Dual-Motors Control Strategy

Introduction 

The integration of dual electrical motors with a reduction gearbox is crucial in various industrial applications, including robotics, automotive systems, and manufacturing processes. Operating two motors simultaneously is often necessary to achieve high torque and maintain system efficiency. 

However, a key challenge arises when one motor becomes overloaded, leading to reduced performance and potential damage to the system. 

This master's thesis aims to explore innovative control strategies for managing two electrical motors connected to a reduction gearbox, with the goal of preventing overloading and enhancing overall system performance. 

Background 

Using two motors in tandem with a reduction gearbox is a common approach in industrial settings. 

However, the coordination and synchronization of these motors to prevent overloading are areas that require further exploration. 

Overloading one motor while the other remains underutilized not only affects efficiency but also reduces the lifespan of the motors and the gearbox. 

The proposed research will focus on developing a control strategy that distributes the load either evenly or according to a set percentage, ensuring balanced load sharing and preventing overload conditions. 

 
Research Objective 

The main objectives of this master’s thesis are: 

Develop a Load Sharing Strategy: Investigate and design a control approach that allows the motors to share the load based on a predetermined percentage, ensuring flexible and balanced load distribution while avoiding overloads. 

Simulation and Experimental Validation: Implement and validate the proposed control strategy through simulations. 

Performance Optimization: Analyze the overall system performance, including efficiency and energy consumption, and identify opportunities for further optimization. 

Methodology 

To achieve these objectives, the following steps are recommended: 

Literature Review: Conduct an extensive review of existing research on motor control, load balancing techniques, and applications involving reduction gearbox to gather insight and identify best practices. 

Load Balancing Algorithm: Develop an algorithm that considers various parameters, such as motor specifications, gearbox reduction ratio, and applied load to effectively balance the load between the two motors. 

Real-time Monitoring System: Design a real-time monitoring system that utilizes sensors and feedback mechanisms to detect potential overloads and automatically adjust motor power. 

Simulation and Validation: Implement the proposed control strategy in simulation and validate its performance through detailed simulations. 

Timeline 

The project is planned to be completed within six months. 

You are curious, open-minded and interested in collaborating with people from different backgrounds. During the thesis, students will primarily work at our facility in Eskilstuna. The recruitment process is ongoing; and positions may be filled before the application deadline. 

Suitable Background: We are seeking a team of two masters students with background in Mechanical or Design Engineering with an interest in multivariable feedback control and adaptive control. 

Thesis Level: Master 
Language: English 
Starting Date: Early 2026 
Number of Students: 2 Master students
Location: Volvo Construction Equipment, Eskilstuna

For further information, please contact: 
David Berggren 
Motor Drive System & Electromobility 
T. +46 737 656409 
david.berggren@volvo.com