Guidance in Selecting Advanced Control Techniques for Switched Reluctance Machine Drives in Emerging Applications

This paper presents advancements in the control techniques of switched reluctance machines (SRMs) for traction and automotive applications. The high performance of the SRM drive system is embodied in the smooth torque output and high-efficiency control methods in the motoring and generating modes of operation. Wide speed operating ranges for both motoring and generating operations are considered. An SRM designed and built for an off-road traction application is used as an application example. Simulation results for the proposed techniques using an SRM system designed for off-road traction application are presented.

I. Introduction

The switched reluctance machine (SRM) is one that has intrigued the electric machines community for over 30 years. While it has been demonstrated to be applicable in a number of applications, its commercial use is still somewhat limited. Despite this, there is reason for optimism among its advocates that there are applications where a compelling case can be made to adopt the SRM for reasons of simplicity, performance, and economics. Fundamental references on the SRM are [1], [2], and the references cited therein.