Constant switching frequency predictive control scheme for three-level inverter-fed sensorless induction motor drive

The paper presents a novel model predictive flux control (MPFC) scheme for three-level inverter-fed sensorless induction motor drive operated in a wide speed region, including field weakening. The novelty of the proposed drive lies in combining in one system a number of new solutions providing important features, among which are: very high dynamics, constant switching frequency, no need to adjust weighting factors in the predictive cost function, adaptive speed and parameter (stator resistance, main inductance) estimation. The theoretical principles of the optimal switching sequence predictive stator flux control (OSS-MPFC) method used are also discussed. The method guarantees constant switching frequency operation of a three-level inverter. For speed estimation, a compensated model reference adaptive system (C-MRAS) was adopted while for IM parameters estimation a Q-MRAS was developed. Simulation and experimental results measured on a 50 kW drive that illustrates operation and performances of the system are presented. The proposed novel solution of a predictive controlled IM drive presents an attractive and complete algorithm/system which only requires the knowledge of nominal IM parameters for proper operation.