PULSE-WIDTH-MODULATION CURRENT CONTROL OF A SWITCHED RELUCTANCE MOTOR DRIVE: CONTROLLER DEVELOPMENT AND SUPPLY CURRENT RIPPLE REDUCTION

Abstract

This thesis details the development of a four-quadrant proportional-integral (PI) pulse width modulation (PWM) current controller for a switched reluctance motor (SRM) drive, with distinct control strategies for both motoring and generating modes. In the motoring mode, the controller was designed with gain-scheduling to provide responsive current tracking across the operating range. Conduction angle optimization using a genetic algorithm was performed to balance the objectives of minimizing torque ripple while maximizing average torque. The conduction angles were selected in generating mode to minimize torque ripple and improve ampere-per-torque. Additionally, a synchronized switching methodology was explored to reduce supply current ripple further enhancing drive efficiency and system reliability. The proposed current controller was validated through numerous simulations and experimental testing on a back-to-back dynamometer setup comprising an SRM and an induction motor. The results confirm the controller’s ability to deliver high performance and demonstrate its potential for SRM drive applications requiring four-quadrant operation.