Model assessment for sensorless control of permanent magnet synchronous machines in automotive applications

Precise knowledge of the rotor position is essential for performing high performance field oriented control in synchronous machines. Due to cost saving and reliability reasons, the use of sensorless control strategies is highly desirable. Nevertheless, the choice of the machine model for performing model-based sensorless control is not trivial. In this work, a theoretical and experimental assessment and comparison of four available machine models - Stator, Combined, Extended EMF and Extended Flux models - is performed and conclusions regarding their unique advantages and drawbacks for different load profiles and implementation scenarios are drawn.