​Problem we are trying to solve

Our customers – OEMs and systems users in particular – often struggle to understand how their machines interact with our products, variable speed drives (VSDs). This lack of clarity leads to delays in commissioning and an increased reliance on ABB’s technical support.

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What solution do we seek?

We are looking for an AI-powered solution that can: 

• Simulate real-world performance

• Self-commission without manual parameterization

• Autonomously troubleshoot issues

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This will create a smarter, more intuitive ecosystem that enhances the customer experience.

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Why does this matter? 

Motor-driven systems account for 45% of global electricity consumption, powering industries such as:

• HVACR (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration)

• Water and Waste Water plants

• Factory production lines

 

Variable speed drives (VSDs) improve energy efficiency by adjusting motor speed to match workload requirements.

However, selecting the right drive and motor for an application requires expertise in system dynamics, overload capabilities, and duty cycles. System users and OEMs must currently enter multiple parameters manually during commissioning, leading to:

• Delays in setup

• Frequent manual interventions

• Increased reliance on ABB’s technical support

 
Now, imagine a smarter approach—where a VSD module links directly to a machine’s dynamics in a simulation, enabling real-time performance analysis and AI-powered drive selection.

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More details on the challenge

We seek an AI-powered solution that leverages a vast database of drive performance parameters and application-specific requirements to suggest the optimal motor and drive combination.

 

Simulation
For example:

• Replicate real-world machine operating conditions

• Provide data-driven insights for selecting the best drive-motor combination

• Offer predictive analytics for performance optimization

 

Commissioning
For example:

• Automate commissioning by preloading optimal drive parameters based on machine dynamics and application needs and automatically update them

 

Troubleshooting

For example:

• Using a comprehensive database of drive, motor, and application parameters

• Providing step-by-step corrective actions

• Helping customers plan servicing proactively

• Integrating drive details and user manuals

 

Impact of the solution on our business and customers

An AI-driven solution will help customers integrate our drives seamlessly by providing accurate simulations.