Validation of FEM-Based Parameter Estimation for Variable Phase-Pole Induction Machines

In multiphase electric machines, high-performance control strategies require suitable electrical parameter estimation. This aspect is particularly true for the class of multiphase machines known as variable phase-pole induction machines. This work analyzes, calculates, and experimentally validates different parameter estimation methods for a wound independently-controlled stator coil induction machine, which can dynamically change the phase-pole configuration during real-time operation. The parameter estimation methods are a conventional finite-element analysis-based stator impedance calculation and an implementation of the harmonic plane decomposition theory. Experimental verification illustrates the proposed estimation technique in different machine configurations. Comparing the two analyzed methods, the estimation of all machine parameters based on the harmonic plane decomposition theory well agrees with the practical results. The results indicate that using the proposed method as the initial parameter estimate in a commissioning process for a variable phase-pole drive is possible and beneficial for the reduced computing time.