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To solve the problems of difficulty in speed measurement and low accuracy of speed measurement of induction motor (IM) during fast starting, the electromagnetic field coupling circuit (EFCC) and open‐loop control of IM considering rapid speed change are proposed. First, the EFCC of IM is established through the stator circuit, air gap magnetic field circuit and rotor circuit, and the stator voltage and electromagnetic torque of the fast starting process are deduced from the air gap magnetic density on the basis of constant slip angular velocity, and then the open‐loop control method based on the EFCC is given. Finally, compared with the open‐loop control based on the TEC, the results of simulation and experiment show that the open‐loop control based on the EFCC can follow the acceleration starting more quickly and the starting current is smaller, which is conducive to reducing the cost of the drive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bearings are the most vulnerable component in low-voltage induction motors from a maintenance standpoint. Vibration monitoring is the benchmark technique for identifying mechanical faults in rotating machinery, including the diagnosis of bearing defects. The study of different bearing fault phenomena under induction motor transient conditions offers interesting capabilities to enhance classic fault detection techniques. This study analyzes the low-frequency localized bearing fault signatures in both the inner and outer races during the start-up and steady-state operation of inverter-fed and line-started induction motors. For this aim, the classic vibration envelope spectrum technique is explored in the time–frequency domain by using a simple, resampling-free, Short Time Fourier Transform (STFT) and a band-pass filtering stage. The vibration data are acquired in the motor housing in the radial direction for different load points. In addition, two different localized defect sizes are considered to explore the influence of the defect width. The analysis of extracted low-frequency characteristic frequencies conducted in this study demonstrates the feasibility of detecting early-stage localized bearing defects in induction motors across various operating conditions and actuation modes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract To solve the problems of difficulty in speed measurement and low accuracy of speed measurement of induction motor (IM) during fast starting, the electromagnetic field coupling circuit (EFCC) and open‐loop control of IM considering rapid speed change are proposed. First, the EFCC of IM is established through the stator circuit, air gap magnetic field circuit and rotor circuit, and the stator voltage and electromagnetic torque of the fast starting process are deduced from the air gap magnetic density on the basis of constant slip angular velocity, and then the open‐loop control method based on the EFCC is given. Finally, compared with the open‐loop control based on the TEC, the results of simulation and experiment show that the open‐loop control based on the EFCC can follow the acceleration starting more quickly and the starting current is smaller, which is conducive to reducing the cost of the drive.

Abstract Aiming at the torque ripple caused by significant current ripple and non‐ideal back‐electromotive force (back‐EMF) of coreless brushless DC motor (BLDCM), an incremental predictive control strategy based on unipolar pulse width modulation (PWM) is proposed in the non‐commutation interval. Firstly, the unipolar PWM scheme is used to double the current ripple frequency, which can reduce the current ripple. On this basis, the current prediction equations of adjacent control periods are subtracted to obtain the incremental current prediction equation, and the influence of non‐ideal back‐EMF on torque ripple suppression is eliminated. Finally, combined with the author's previous research on the commutation torque ripple suppression strategy, an integrated suppression strategy for non‐commutation and commutation interval is proposed. The experimental results show that, compared with the PI control strategy, the total torque ripple of the proposed strategy is reduced to less than 35%, and the current ripple is reduced. Meanwhile, the commutation time is shortened, and the advantages of coreless motor rapid response are retained. The strategy is universal, not limited by motor parameters and operating conditions, and has theoretical and engineering value.

Abstract An analytical and optimisation method is presented to improve the air‐gap magnetic field of the surface‐mounted permanent magnet machine with multi‐level array magnets, which can reduce air‐gap magnetic field harmonics and torque ripple. Different from the conventional analytical method (AM) around the entire single‐magnet pole, the modelling method of multi‐level equal‐thickness ferrite magnets with different remanences for improving the air‐gap flux density is investigated. Considering the influence of air‐gap relative permeability by stator slots and multi‐level magnet remanences on the air‐gap flux density, the proposed AM for improving air‐gap flux density is derived by analysing the slotless air‐gap flux density and slotted air‐gap relative permeability. The cogging torque is predicted with energy method by analysing the tangential magnetic field distribution at stator slots. Then, the back electromotive force is predicted by analysing the winding distribution and radial air‐gap flux density. Based on the proposed AM, the simulated annealing particle swarm optimisation algorithm is used by optimising the widths and thicknesses of the multi‐level array magnets to further reduce torque ripple and increase output torque. Finally, the accuracy of the proposed AM is verified by comparing with the finite element method.

Abstract Large‐scale design optimisation techniques enable the design of high‐performance electric machines. Electromagnetic 3D finite element analysis (FEA) is typically employed in optimisation studies for accurate analysis of axial flux permanent magnet (AFPM) machines, which require extensive computational resources. To reduce the computational burden, a FEA‐based mathematical method relying on the geometric and magnetic symmetry of coreless AFPM machines is proposed to estimate the machine performance indicators using the least number of FEA solutions, thereby significantly lowering the running time. This method is generally applicable to AFPM machines with low saturation effects and cogging torque as exemplified for a printed circuit board (PCB) stator coreless AFPM machine. To further reduce the computation time, a systematically simplified equivalent 3D FEA model for planar PCB coils integrated with this machine is also proposed. The practical implementation of the introduced method is elaborated based on an example optimisation study, and an analytical method for fast design scaling is also discussed. The results of the proposed approach are compared with detailed transient FEA results, and a prototype 26‐pole PCB stator coreless AFPM machine was also used to validate the results experimentally.

Aiming at the torque ripple caused by significant current ripple and non‐ideal back‐electromotive force (back‐EMF) of coreless brushless DC motor (BLDCM), an incremental predictive control strategy based on unipolar pulse width modulation (PWM) is proposed in the non‐commutation interval. Firstly, the unipolar PWM scheme is used to double the current ripple frequency, which can reduce the current ripple. On this basis, the current prediction equations of adjacent control periods are subtracted to obtain the incremental current prediction equation, and the influence of non‐ideal back‐EMF on torque ripple suppression is eliminated. Finally, combined with the author's previous research on the commutation torque ripple suppression strategy, an integrated suppression strategy for non‐commutation and commutation interval is proposed. The experimental results show that, compared with the PI control strategy, the total torque ripple of the proposed strategy is reduced to less than 35%, and the current ripple is reduced. Meanwhile, the commutation time is shortened, and the advantages of coreless motor rapid response are retained. The strategy is universal, not limited by motor parameters and operating conditions, and has theoretical and engineering value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An analytical and optimisation method is presented to improve the air‐gap magnetic field of the surface‐mounted permanent magnet machine with multi‐level array magnets, which can reduce air‐gap magnetic field harmonics and torque ripple. Different from the conventional analytical method (AM) around the entire single‐magnet pole, the modelling method of multi‐level equal‐thickness ferrite magnets with different remanences for improving the air‐gap flux density is investigated. Considering the influence of air‐gap relative permeability by stator slots and multi‐level magnet remanences on the air‐gap flux density, the proposed AM for improving air‐gap flux density is derived by analysing the slotless air‐gap flux density and slotted air‐gap relative permeability. The cogging torque is predicted with energy method by analysing the tangential magnetic field distribution at stator slots. Then, the back electromotive force is predicted by analysing the winding distribution and radial air‐gap flux density. Based on the proposed AM, the simulated annealing particle swarm optimisation algorithm is used by optimising the widths and thicknesses of the multi‐level array magnets to further reduce torque ripple and increase output torque. Finally, the accuracy of the proposed AM is verified by comparing with the finite element method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the growing demand and projected shortage of rare earth elements in the near future, the urgent task of developing energy-efficient electrical equipment with less dependence on rare earth magnets has become paramount. The use of permanent magnet-assisted synchronous reluctance motors (PMaSynRMs), which reduce the consumption of rare earth magnets, can help solve this problem. This article presents a theoretical analysis of the characteristics of PMaSynRM in a subway train drive. Options with rare earth and ferrite magnets are considered. Optimization of the motor designs considering the train movement cycle is carried out using the Nelder-Mead method. Characteristics of the motors, such as losses, torque ripple, and inverter power rating, as well as the mass and cost of active materials, are compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are numerous methods for detecting interturn faults (ITFs) in the field winding of synchronous machines (SMs). One effective approach is based on comparing theoretical and measured excitation currents. This method is unaffected by rotor temperature in static excitation SMs. However, this paper investigates the influence of rotor temperature in brushless synchronous machines (BSMs), where rotor temperature significantly impacts the exciter excitation current. Extensive experimental tests were conducted on a special BSM with measurable rotor temperature. Given the challenges of measuring rotor temperature in industrial machines, this paper explores the feasibility of using stator temperature in the exciter field current estimation model. The theoretical exciter field current is calculated using a deep neural network (DNN), which incorporates electrical brushless synchronous generator output values and stator temperature, and it is subsequently compared with the measured exciter field current. This method achieves an error rate below 0.5% under healthy conditions, demonstrating its potential for simple implementation in industrial BSMs for ITF detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large‐scale design optimisation techniques enable the design of high‐performance electric machines. Electromagnetic 3D finite element analysis (FEA) is typically employed in optimisation studies for accurate analysis of axial flux permanent magnet (AFPM) machines, which require extensive computational resources. To reduce the computational burden, a FEA‐based mathematical method relying on the geometric and magnetic symmetry of coreless AFPM machines is proposed to estimate the machine performance indicators using the least number of FEA solutions, thereby significantly lowering the running time. This method is generally applicable to AFPM machines with low saturation effects and cogging torque as exemplified for a printed circuit board (PCB) stator coreless AFPM machine. To further reduce the computation time, a systematically simplified equivalent 3D FEA model for planar PCB coils integrated with this machine is also proposed. The practical implementation of the introduced method is elaborated based on an example optimisation study, and an analytical method for fast design scaling is also discussed. The results of the proposed approach are compared with detailed transient FEA results, and a prototype 26‐pole PCB stator coreless AFPM machine was also used to validate the results experimentally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper introduces a novel application of the inverse modelling method, which is designed to estimate core losses in both the stator and rotor regions of an electrical machine. The technique focuses on the use of short‐term transient temperature measurements obtained from the stator core of a slotless induction machine, with a focus on validating the measured temperature rise through a forward model. The measurement setup involves two primary approaches: (i) the use of thermal sensors embedded in a printed circuit board inside the stator core and (ii) surface sensors embedded on the stator yoke. Through the use of this innovative approach, the results indicate that the inverse modelling technique is highly effective in predicting core losses based on short‐time transient temperature rise measurements.

Abstract This paper investigates the optimal stator voltage angle in a rotor flux‐oriented system of an induction machine drive, aiming to maximise machine torque while operating in a deep field weakening region. Here, torque maximisation leads to maximum torque per voltage control, as only voltage constraints are relevant in this region due to high back‐electromotive force. Previous studies have predominantly focused on field‐weakening operation and torque maximisation, assuming a constant synchronous speed. However, for a given rotor speed, the variation in the dq voltage components impacts the slip speed, thereby influencing the synchronous speed. Therefore, this paper proposes enhanced analytical expressions to address this limitation. It is shown that after a linearisation around a suitable operating point, a closed‐form algebraic equation for calculating the speed and parameter‐dependent optimal voltage angle for torque maximisation can be obtained. The theoretical analysis is supported by numerical and experimental results. The presented linearised expression is proven to be an effective tool for the analytical calculation of the optimal voltage angle, making it suitable for real‐time control applications. It is shown that the proposed approach achieves higher drive torque and efficiency than the conventional voltage component distribution.

This paper introduces a novel application of the inverse modelling method, which is designed to estimate core losses in both the stator and rotor regions of an electrical machine. The technique focuses on the use of short‐term transient temperature measurements obtained from the stator core of a slotless induction machine, with a focus on validating the measured temperature rise through a forward model. The measurement setup involves two primary approaches: (i) the use of thermal sensors embedded in a printed circuit board inside the stator core and (ii) surface sensors embedded on the stator yoke. Through the use of this innovative approach, the results indicate that the inverse modelling technique is highly effective in predicting core losses based on short‐time transient temperature rise measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the optimal stator voltage angle in a rotor flux‐oriented system of an induction machine drive, aiming to maximise machine torque while operating in a deep field weakening region. Here, torque maximisation leads to maximum torque per voltage control, as only voltage constraints are relevant in this region due to high back‐electromotive force. Previous studies have predominantly focused on field‐weakening operation and torque maximisation, assuming a constant synchronous speed. However, for a given rotor speed, the variation in the dq voltage components impacts the slip speed, thereby influencing the synchronous speed. Therefore, this paper proposes enhanced analytical expressions to address this limitation. It is shown that after a linearisation around a suitable operating point, a closed‐form algebraic equation for calculating the speed and parameter‐dependent optimal voltage angle for torque maximisation can be obtained. The theoretical analysis is supported by numerical and experimental results. The presented linearised expression is proven to be an effective tool for the analytical calculation of the optimal voltage angle, making it suitable for real‐time control applications. It is shown that the proposed approach achieves higher drive torque and efficiency than the conventional voltage component distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this paper, counter rotating dual rotor wound field flux switching wind power generator is revisited to study the generating characteristics of the AC output power curves based on finite element analysis (FEA) and experimental study. Analysis are performed under dynamic conditions, such as variable resistance, field excitation and speed. Also, electromagnetic performance is studied under variation of the field and armature currents. Analysis reveals that outer port machines with higher power capability and better electromagnetic performance compared to the inner port counterparts, although with higher fluctuations exhibited on the torque profiles of the former due to higher slotting effects. From the power generation characteristics curves, it is clear that the developed wind generator is able to produce reliable performance over a wide operating range. The accuracy of the FEA predicted results are validated, experimentally. The cover image is based on the Research Article Generating characteristics and experimentation of counter rotating dual rotor wound field flux switching wind generator by Wasiq Ullah et al., https://doi.org/10.1049/elp2.12374.

Abstract A modified non‐linear magnetic equivalent circuit (MEC) model is presented for double‐stator single‐rotor axial flux permanent magnet (AFPM) (DSSR‐AFPM) machine considering stator radial‐end flux‐leakage, which is severer under a heavier load. Compared to the conventional MEC model for DSSR‐AFPM machine, the proposed model can predict the electromagnetic performance more accurately when the machine operates under a heavy load. The proposed MEC model is verified by the finite element analysis (FEA) on a 24‐slot/20‐pole DSSR‐AFPM machine. The comparison results show that the relative error between the proposed MEC model and FEA is

A modified non‐linear magnetic equivalent circuit (MEC) model is presented for double‐stator single‐rotor axial flux permanent magnet (AFPM) (DSSR‐AFPM) machine considering stator radial‐end flux‐leakage, which is severer under a heavier load. Compared to the conventional MEC model for DSSR‐AFPM machine, the proposed model can predict the electromagnetic performance more accurately when the machine operates under a heavy load. The proposed MEC model is verified by the finite element analysis (FEA) on a 24‐slot/20‐pole DSSR‐AFPM machine. The comparison results show that the relative error between the proposed MEC model and FEA is <4% for back electromotive force and <5% for average electromagnetic torque, respectively. Specifically, the relative error of the average torque for the modified MEC model is 4.92% at 28.30 Arms/mm2 slot current density, which is lower than the conventional MEC model, that is, 7.75%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, counter rotating dual rotor wound field flux switching wind power generator is revisited to study the generating characteristics of the AC output power curves based on finite element analysis (FEA) and experimental study. Analysis are performed under dynamic conditions, such as variable resistance, field excitation and speed. Also, electromagnetic performance is studied under variation of the field and armature currents. Analysis reveals that outer port machines with higher power capability and better electromagnetic performance compared to the inner port counterparts, although with higher fluctuations exhibited on the torque profiles of the former due to higher slotting effects. From the power generation characteristics curves, it is clear that the developed wind generator is able to produce reliable performance over a wide operating range. The accuracy of the FEA predicted results are validated, experimentally. The cover image is based on the Research Article Generating characteristics and experimentation of counter rotating dual rotor wound field flux switching wind generator by Wasiq Ullah et al., https://doi.org/10.1049/elp2.12374. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Fractional slot concentrated winding (FSCW) permanent magnet (PM) machines are gaining more attention for low‐speed applications because of their great advantages. This paper proposes a new structure for an FSCW double rotor axial flux PM synchronous machine (DRAFPMSM) with counter‐rotating rotors. In addition, an analytical formula for the Back EMF waveform of the proposed structure is presented. The accuracy of the formula is investigated by designing a 40 W sample machine. The rotors of this machine rotate with speeds of 600 and 428 rpm in opposite directions. The Back EMF of the sample machine is calculated using the suggested formula. In addition, the finite element method (FEM) is used to determine the Back EMF waveform. Comparison of the obtained results confirms that the new formula yields the Back EMF precisely such that the results well match to those of FEM. The effect of the relative position of two rotors on the Back EMF waveform is investigated using the proposed formula. In addition, the optimum relative position of two rotors for minimizing the Back EMF THD of the case study machine is determined.

Abstract To suppress parameter mismatch and improve the output performance of model predictive control (MPC), a new robust virtual‐vector MPC strategy is proposed for a five‐phase permanent‐magnet motor in this study. Firstly, the incremental predictive model is applied to remove the impact of flux mismatch. Then the d‐q axis inductance parameter sensitivity of MPC is analysed, which produces the predictive current error between the normal parameter and mismatched parameter. Based on the current error, a new cost function is designed to select the voltage vector more accurately when the d‐q axis inductance parameter mismatch occurs. Thus, good robustness to the parameter's variation can be guaranteed. Afterwards, the duty cycle modulation technology is applied to allocate the duration time of two adjacent vector‐vectors and zero vector. So the motor current harmonics and torque ripple can be considerably suppressed. Finally, the experimental results are provided to show the effectiveness of this proposed method.

In order to effectively suppress rotor periodic synchronous vibration caused by the rotor mass eccentricity and sensor detection error of bearingless induction motor (BIM), a rotor vibration suppression control strategy with improved repetitive control is proposed based on the analysis of the problems existing in the traditional repetitive control. On the basis of the vector control model of the BIM system, a simplified suspension control model is derived. The fractional delay filter is used to optimize the repetitive control internal model. Furthermore, for enhancing the stability of the BIM control system, the design method of the repetitive control compensators in high-, middle- and low-frequency region is given in detail. The simulation and experimental results show that the vibration suppression control strategy with the improved repetitive control can effectively suppress the vibration of the rotor in steady state and improve the suspension accuracy of the BIM.

The reduction of the human environmental footprint can be achieved through the use of more efficient motors, such as synchronous reluctance motors (SynRMs). Known for their affordability, SynRMs are increasingly employed in sensorless AC drives. This paper presents a critical comparison of sensorless algorithms based on two nonlinear Kalman Filters (Unscented and Extended). The objective is to highlight the theoretical and practical advantages and drawbacks of each method when applied to the speed control of a SynRM, culminating in a definitive decision on the best choice. The magnetic model of the SynRM is much more nonlinear than that of induction motors, which are predominantly addressed in existing literature. This study aims to fill the gap by answering the question: “Is the extended Kalman filter still the best choice even in the case of nonlinear electric motors?” The answer comes through a large batch of experiments, including speed and load torque tests, zero-speed standstill starts, parameter sensitivity, and evaluation of computational burdens for both Kalman filter algorithms.

Bearings are the most vulnerable component in low-voltage induction motors from a maintenance standpoint. Vibration monitoring is the benchmark technique for identifying mechanical faults in rotating machinery, including the diagnosis of bearing defects. The study of different bearing fault phenomena under induction motor transient conditions offers interesting capabilities to enhance classic fault detection techniques. This study analyzes the low-frequency localized bearing fault signatures in both the inner and outer races during the start-up and steady-state operation of inverter-fed and line-started induction motors. For this aim, the classic vibration envelope spectrum technique is explored in the time–frequency domain by using a simple, resampling-free, Short Time Fourier Transform (STFT) and a band-pass filtering stage. The vibration data are acquired in the motor housing in the radial direction for different load points. In addition, two different localized defect sizes are considered to explore the influence of the defect width. The analysis of extracted low-frequency characteristic frequencies conducted in this study demonstrates the feasibility of detecting early-stage localized bearing defects in induction motors across various operating conditions and actuation modes.

There are numerous methods for detecting interturn faults (ITFs) in the field winding of synchronous machines (SMs). One effective approach is based on comparing theoretical and measured excitation currents. This method is unaffected by rotor temperature in static excitation SMs. However, this paper investigates the influence of rotor temperature in brushless synchronous machines (BSMs), where rotor temperature significantly impacts the exciter excitation current. Extensive experimental tests were conducted on a special BSM with measurable rotor temperature. Given the challenges of measuring rotor temperature in industrial machines, this paper explores the feasibility of using stator temperature in the exciter field current estimation model. The theoretical exciter field current is calculated using a deep neural network (DNN), which incorporates electrical brushless synchronous generator output values and stator temperature, and it is subsequently compared with the measured exciter field current. This method achieves an error rate below 0.5% under healthy conditions, demonstrating its potential for simple implementation in industrial BSMs for ITF detection.

With the growing demand and projected shortage of rare earth elements in the near future, the urgent task of developing energy-efficient electrical equipment with less dependence on rare earth magnets has become paramount. The use of permanent magnet-assisted synchronous reluctance motors (PMaSynRMs), which reduce the consumption of rare earth magnets, can help solve this problem. This article presents a theoretical analysis of the characteristics of PMaSynRM in a subway train drive. Options with rare earth and ferrite magnets are considered. Optimization of the motor designs considering the train movement cycle is carried out using the Nelder-Mead method. Characteristics of the motors, such as losses, torque ripple, and inverter power rating, as well as the mass and cost of active materials, are compared.

Abstract Due to the application of only one voltage vector in a control period, conventional model predictive torque control (MPTC) suffers from relatively large steady‐state ripples. The‐state‐of‐the‐art double‐vector‐based MPTC (DVMPTC) was proposed to improve steady‐state performance. However, its duty cycle optimization method significantly affects the control performances. Thus, MPTC with hybrid mode duty cycle optimization is proposed, which realizes better performance than the universal DVMPTC, and obtains the appropriate average switching frequency, especially at high‐speed domain. The proposed method utilises the universal DVMPTC method, while it equips duty cycle optimization with discrete space vector modulation (DSVM) scheme as the additional constraint for further reducing the reference voltage tracking error that exists in DVMPTC. What's more, rotation module and pre‐selection strategies are involved in simplifying the design of vector selection methods. Comparative simulations and experiments verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.

Abstract In this article, a hybrid analytical model for a quasi‐regular polygon rotor (QPR) is proposed. It mainly uses the subdomain method and conformal mapping to solve a non‐circular boundary in the QPR. Firstly, the subdomain method combined with an equivalent surface current method is used to calculate the air‐gap magnetic field considering a slotted stator with a circular rotor. Secondly, by segmenting the non‐circular boundary in the QPR, the complex relative air‐gap permeance of the QPR can be calculated using the conformal mapping. Thirdly, this complex relative air‐gap permeance modifies the air‐gap magnetic field calculated in the first step to obtain the actual magnetic field distributions. Consequently, no‐load and loaded air‐gap flux densities, back‐electromotive force and torque can be obtained. A 12‐pole/3‐phase permanent magnet motor is modelled using the proposed hybrid analytical model, which is validated by finite‐element analysis and experiment. This proposed hybrid analytical model presents a new way of processing the QPR. Its calculation speed is nearly 50 times faster than the finite‐element analysis, which is of great help to the initial design and optimisation of machines with QPRs.

The analysis of electrical machine faults during start-up, and variable speed and load conditions offers numerous advantages for fault detection and diagnosis. In this context, diagnosing localized bearing faults through vibration signals remains challenging, particularly in developing physically meaningful, simple, and resampling-free techniques to monitor fault characteristic components throughout machine start-up. This study introduces a straightforward method for qualitatively identifying the time-frequency evolutions of localized bearing faults during the start-up of an inverter-fed machine. The proposed technique utilizes the time-frequency representation of the envelope spectrum, effectively highlighting characteristic fault frequencies during transient operation. The method is tested in an open-source dataset including transient vibration signals. In addition, the work studies the method limitations induced by the mechanical transfer path, when the bearing surroundings are not directly accessible for vibration acquisition. The proposed methodology efficiently identifies incipient localized bearing faults during inverter-fed machine start-up when the fault signature is not highly attenuated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To suppress parameter mismatch and improve the output performance of model predictive control (MPC), a new robust virtual‐vector MPC strategy is proposed for a five‐phase permanent‐magnet motor in this study. Firstly, the incremental predictive model is applied to remove the impact of flux mismatch. Then the d‐q axis inductance parameter sensitivity of MPC is analysed, which produces the predictive current error between the normal parameter and mismatched parameter. Based on the current error, a new cost function is designed to select the voltage vector more accurately when the d‐q axis inductance parameter mismatch occurs. Thus, good robustness to the parameter's variation can be guaranteed. Afterwards, the duty cycle modulation technology is applied to allocate the duration time of two adjacent vector‐vectors and zero vector. So the motor current harmonics and torque ripple can be considerably suppressed. Finally, the experimental results are provided to show the effectiveness of this proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fractional slot concentrated winding (FSCW) permanent magnet (PM) machines are gaining more attention for low‐speed applications because of their great advantages. This paper proposes a new structure for an FSCW double rotor axial flux PM synchronous machine (DRAFPMSM) with counter‐rotating rotors. In addition, an analytical formula for the Back EMF waveform of the proposed structure is presented. The accuracy of the formula is investigated by designing a 40 W sample machine. The rotors of this machine rotate with speeds of 600 and 428 rpm in opposite directions. The Back EMF of the sample machine is calculated using the suggested formula. In addition, the finite element method (FEM) is used to determine the Back EMF waveform. Comparison of the obtained results confirms that the new formula yields the Back EMF precisely such that the results well match to those of FEM. The effect of the relative position of two rotors on the Back EMF waveform is investigated using the proposed formula. In addition, the optimum relative position of two rotors for minimizing the Back EMF THD of the case study machine is determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of winding chording on five-phase synchronous reluctance motor (SRM) modelled in phase variables is presented. The stator winding configuration is shifted a pole pitch from a fullpitch configuration to a 54 degrees over-full-pitched configuration incorporating the effect of 3rd harmonic of the air-gap magneto-motive force in the inductance equations. The models are monitored on starting, synchronism, loading, faults and loss of synchronism. These are considered simultaneously with vector potential, rotor speed, air-gap flux linkage and winding current. The phase variable (analytical) models have been simulated by using MATLAB/Simulink software while ANSYS Maxwell software has been used to simulate the finite element model (FEM) of the motor for corresponding chording ranges for comparison on direct online starting (DOL). Under all conditions considered in the work, the detailed results are presented and very close similarity is observed between the analytical and the nearly ideal FEM model for all chording ranges and the similarity is enhanced with increase in chording angle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A computationally efficient time‐harmonic finite element model for the steady‐state analysis of a brushless doubly fed induction machine (BDFIM) is proposed. In the model, the electromagnetic couplings of the BDFIM are described by means of the sum of two complex magnetic vector potentials that represent the two fundamental harmonic time components of the magnetic flux density distribution in the rotor frame of reference. As in an ordinary induction motor, the non‐linearity of the magnetisation characteristic is accounted for using an effective magnetic permeability. For the BDFIM, this is derived by considering the features of modulated magnetic flux density waveform. The accuracy of the approach has been validated by comparing the characteristics of a D270 machine operating in the double‐feed mode with ones obtained from the experimentally verified time‐stepping model at various operating conditions. High accuracy of the results coming from the proposed model is demonstrated even under deep saturation conditions within the magnetic circuit.

Abstract Here, a modified magnetic equivalent circuit model which can accurately consider the air‐gap region is presented. The main defect of magnetic equivalent circuit model is in the modelling of air‐gap region. To solve this problem, a new approach based on conformal mappings is presented to accurately calculate the air‐gap permeances between the elements of stator and rotor while considering the real paths of flux tubes in air gap. The distributions of equivalent virtual currents on the both sides of air gap are obtained through modified magnetic equivalent circuit model, which represent the effects of slots, magneto motive force drops in iron parts, and magneto motive force sources. The conformal mapping method is then used to calculate the components of air‐gap magnetic field for every operating point under starting conditions and different loads. One typical cage‐rotor induction motor, which is used in electric submersible pumps, is considered to investigate the accuracy of modified magnetic equivalent circuit model. Some of the analytical results obtained through modified magnetic equivalent circuit model are verified by comparing with the corresponding results obtained from finite element method and experiment set up.

Abstract An analytical method is proposed to model the magnetic field distribution across a slotless tubular interior permanent magnet machine. In order to consider the permeability of both permanent magnets and iron poles of the slider, in the proposed approach, instead of choosing each one as an individual sub‐domain, they are taken as an integrated sub‐domain. Therefore, the governing partial differential equation alters from Poisson equation to the governing magnetostatics equation for inhomogeneous (space‐dependent permeability) materials. The solution is derived through separation of variables method in which a Sturm‐Liouville problem is encountered. The solution and its important mathematical properties, such as the orthogonality and generalised Fourier series, are fully addressed. These properties are very helpful for creating linear interface equations in terms of the integral coefficients. In addition, since the number of sub‐domains is decreased, the total number of the unknowns of the final matrix of equations is reduced effectively. To validate the proposed method, a case study is simulated by the aid of computer software and its results are compared with those of finite element method. It has been observed that the results are in good agreement.

Abstract A permanent magnet synchronous machine (PMSM) temperature estimation method fusing the classic lumped‐parameter thermal network (LPTN) and the stator sensor temperature information is investigated. With respect to the industrial servo applications, it is important to monitor the rotor magnet temperature to extend the machine thermal utilisation. A simple LPTN is developed and the quadratic programming is applied to identify the model parameters. The research work shows that the rotor temperature is sensitive to the rotor speed even at low speeds, and this simple estimation network can provide an accurate estimation. The winding sensor information can further improve the performance. A compound mechanism is built, by which the winding temperature estimation error is used as feedback to suppress the model‐based temperature estimation error accumulation. The estimation performance is compared with a regular constant LPTN‐based method. Experimental results based on a PMSM are presented to validate the proposed method.

Due to the application of only one voltage vector in a control period, conventional model predictive torque control (MPTC) suffers from relatively large steady‐state ripples. The‐state‐of‐the‐art double‐vector‐based MPTC (DVMPTC) was proposed to improve steady‐state performance. However, its duty cycle optimization method significantly affects the control performances. Thus, MPTC with hybrid mode duty cycle optimization is proposed, which realizes better performance than the universal DVMPTC, and obtains the appropriate average switching frequency, especially at high‐speed domain. The proposed method utilises the universal DVMPTC method, while it equips duty cycle optimization with discrete space vector modulation (DSVM) scheme as the additional constraint for further reducing the reference voltage tracking error that exists in DVMPTC. What's more, rotation module and pre‐selection strategies are involved in simplifying the design of vector selection methods. Comparative simulations and experiments verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, a hybrid analytical model for a quasi‐regular polygon rotor (QPR) is proposed. It mainly uses the subdomain method and conformal mapping to solve a non‐circular boundary in the QPR. Firstly, the subdomain method combined with an equivalent surface current method is used to calculate the air‐gap magnetic field considering a slotted stator with a circular rotor. Secondly, by segmenting the non‐circular boundary in the QPR, the complex relative air‐gap permeance of the QPR can be calculated using the conformal mapping. Thirdly, this complex relative air‐gap permeance modifies the air‐gap magnetic field calculated in the first step to obtain the actual magnetic field distributions. Consequently, no‐load and loaded air‐gap flux densities, back‐electromotive force and torque can be obtained. A 12‐pole/3‐phase permanent magnet motor is modelled using the proposed hybrid analytical model, which is validated by finite‐element analysis and experiment. This proposed hybrid analytical model presents a new way of processing the QPR. Its calculation speed is nearly 50 times faster than the finite‐element analysis, which is of great help to the initial design and optimisation of machines with QPRs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Wind energy as the cleanest source of renewable energy requires a highly efficient lightweight generator that provides maximum power density while having the least vibration noise and maintenance. In this study, an axial air gap transverse flux machine is presented, and all excitation sources are located in the stator. This structure provides lower core loss, weight and cost due to the full utilisation of the permanent magnets, SMC‐free structure and short magnetic flux path. In fact, by combining the features of a flux‐switching machine into a transverse flux generator with an axial air gap, it is possible to improve the performance of a direct‐drive wind turbine generator by overcoming traditional structures' challenges. To analyse the axial transverse flux switching permanent magnet generator performance characteristics, 3D finite element simulations have been performed, which have been validated by comparing them to the practical results of a single‐phase prototype. The results are in agreement with an acceptable error that is caused by manufacturing uncertainties.

Motors with rare earth permanent magnets are the most compact and energy efficient in most applications. However, their use as traction motors for off-highway vehicles, such as mining dump trucks, is challenging not only because of the high cost of the magnets, but also because of the difficulty of providing a wide range of constant power speed control due to the unregulated permanent magnet flux. For this reason, induction motors remain the most popular type of motor for hybrid and all-electric mining dump trucks. However, the use of an induction motor results in increased power loss, increased current, and high temperature ripple of the power switches of the solid-state inverter when stopping on a slope with an electric brake. In this article, a theoretical comparison between an induction motor (IM) and a magnet-free wound rotor synchronous motor (WRSM) with a rotor DC-excitation in a mining dump truck drive is presented. Both motors have an identical stator outer diameter, and their geometry is optimized using the Nelder-Mead method. 2D finite element analysis in the time domain is used to calculate the IM characteristics. Steady-state characteristics of the motors such as efficiency, losses, torque ripple, required inverter power, dimensions, weight and cost of active materials are compared. In addition, losses and temperature ripples in the power modules of the semiconductor inverter, which affect the reliability of the drive, are compared when using the considered motors. The study demonstrates that the WRSM offers significant benefits such as reduced power loss, inverter power requirement, cost and mass of active materials, making it promising for use in mining trucks.

A computationally efficient time‐harmonic finite element model for the steady‐state analysis of a brushless doubly fed induction machine (BDFIM) is proposed. In the model, the electromagnetic couplings of the BDFIM are described by means of the sum of two complex magnetic vector potentials that represent the two fundamental harmonic time components of the magnetic flux density distribution in the rotor frame of reference. As in an ordinary induction motor, the non‐linearity of the magnetisation characteristic is accounted for using an effective magnetic permeability. For the BDFIM, this is derived by considering the features of modulated magnetic flux density waveform. The accuracy of the approach has been validated by comparing the characteristics of a D270 machine operating in the double‐feed mode with ones obtained from the experimentally verified time‐stepping model at various operating conditions. High accuracy of the results coming from the proposed model is demonstrated even under deep saturation conditions within the magnetic circuit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, a modified magnetic equivalent circuit model which can accurately consider the air‐gap region is presented. The main defect of magnetic equivalent circuit model is in the modelling of air‐gap region. To solve this problem, a new approach based on conformal mappings is presented to accurately calculate the air‐gap permeances between the elements of stator and rotor while considering the real paths of flux tubes in air gap. The distributions of equivalent virtual currents on the both sides of air gap are obtained through modified magnetic equivalent circuit model, which represent the effects of slots, magneto motive force drops in iron parts, and magneto motive force sources. The conformal mapping method is then used to calculate the components of air‐gap magnetic field for every operating point under starting conditions and different loads. One typical cage‐rotor induction motor, which is used in electric submersible pumps, is considered to investigate the accuracy of modified magnetic equivalent circuit model. Some of the analytical results obtained through modified magnetic equivalent circuit model are verified by comparing with the corresponding results obtained from finite element method and experiment set up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A permanent magnet synchronous machine (PMSM) temperature estimation method fusing the classic lumped‐parameter thermal network (LPTN) and the stator sensor temperature information is investigated. With respect to the industrial servo applications, it is important to monitor the rotor magnet temperature to extend the machine thermal utilisation. A simple LPTN is developed and the quadratic programming is applied to identify the model parameters. The research work shows that the rotor temperature is sensitive to the rotor speed even at low speeds, and this simple estimation network can provide an accurate estimation. The winding sensor information can further improve the performance. A compound mechanism is built, by which the winding temperature estimation error is used as feedback to suppress the model‐based temperature estimation error accumulation. The estimation performance is compared with a regular constant LPTN‐based method. Experimental results based on a PMSM are presented to validate the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An analytical method is proposed to model the magnetic field distribution across a slotless tubular interior permanent magnet machine. In order to consider the permeability of both permanent magnets and iron poles of the slider, in the proposed approach, instead of choosing each one as an individual sub‐domain, they are taken as an integrated sub‐domain. Therefore, the governing partial differential equation alters from Poisson equation to the governing magnetostatics equation for inhomogeneous (space‐dependent permeability) materials. The solution is derived through separation of variables method in which a Sturm‐Liouville problem is encountered. The solution and its important mathematical properties, such as the orthogonality and generalised Fourier series, are fully addressed. These properties are very helpful for creating linear interface equations in terms of the integral coefficients. In addition, since the number of sub‐domains is decreased, the total number of the unknowns of the final matrix of equations is reduced effectively. To validate the proposed method, a case study is simulated by the aid of computer software and its results are compared with those of finite element method. It has been observed that the results are in good agreement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phenomenon of imbalance is a variation of voltage and current waveforms from a perfect sinusoidal waveform, which is considered a crucial challenge in power systems. Uneven loads and disturbances result in three‐phase voltage/current unbalance that leads to a temperature rise and low output curves at synchronous machines. Thus, the unbalance/fault must be recognized and avoided. This article suggests a methodology to detect and evaluate three‐phase voltage and current unbalance/fault using a coherence algorithm. The suggested scheme develops integrated protection functions that can be divided into three modules: voltage unbalance, current unbalance, and power factor unbalance. Therefore, it can be useful in mitigation techniques applied to compensate the voltage unbalance effects. The present protection introduces a new proposal of closed‐tripping curves based on the values range of nine coherence factors. To investigate the protection performance, a segment of power grid with real parameters' information is simulated utilizing ATP platform. Several fault types, such as shunt and series faults, are conducted on the simulated system to analyze the results and monitor the system status using the coherence statistic processed in MATLAB software. The results show that the approach is smart, swift, precise, reliable and stable. Moreover, the algorithm can be practically implemented, and represents a base for digital unbalance/fault detectors and relays because its performance is superior in detecting Power Quality Disturbances (PQDs). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract To pursue high‐performance motor drive, the current regulators are designed directly in the discrete domain. However, few kinds of research are developed to achieve arbitrary poles placement simply. To fill this gap, the authors propose a discrete‐time current regulator consisting of two parts: the main regulator used to obtain decoupling control of dq axes currents, and the bi‐proper compensator applied to realise arbitrary poles placement. To strengthen the anti‐disturbance ability of the current regulator, the active resistance is added to the inner feedback path. Combining the active resistance, a new zero‐order‐hold equivalent motor model is developed, based on which the main regulator is designed using the zero‐pole cancellation method. Furthermore, in this way, decoupling control for the two control objectives of reference tracking and anti‐disturbance is realised. To achieve fast tracking response and negligible overshoot, an easy‐to‐implement scheme that simplifies the tuning of the current regulator is proposed based on the arbitrary poles placement. Moreover, the current regulator can be treated as a two‐degree‐of‐freedom controller with this scheme. Finally, the effectiveness and reliability of the proposed current regulator are validated by the simulation results and experimental results in an alternating current machine drive platform.

Principle of sequential excitation for stator windings of switched reluctance motor (SRM) causes many problems including torque ripples and substantial requirement for rotor position sensing. This paper presents an online torque sharing function (TSF) to minimize the undesirable torque ripples in SRM which operates under sensorless drive system. In classical TSF, variance between incoming and outgoing motor torque responses makes tracking of motor torque to reference torque cannot be achieved. Moreover, the TSFs are mainly designed for operating at rated speed. As motor speed changes, the torque ripples increase because the commutation period (CP) becomes inappropriate for commutation process. The proposed TSF is designed to guarantee the good matching between the motor torque response and TSF reference. So, a linear function is chosen as a torque reference for the incoming phase while an exponential function is selected for the outgoing phase. Additionally, the online tuning of commutation period is employed in the proposed hybrid TSF. The sliding mode observer (SMO) based model is formulated for rotor position and speed estimations purpose. The performance of the modified TSF is validated throughout computer simulations and experimental results. Furthermore, the comparisons between the proposed TSF and conventional TSF are carried out.

Abstract The phenomenon of imbalance is a variation of voltage and current waveforms from a perfect sinusoidal waveform, which is considered a crucial challenge in power systems. Uneven loads and disturbances result in three‐phase voltage/current unbalance that leads to a temperature rise and low output curves at synchronous machines. Thus, the unbalance/fault must be recognized and avoided. This article suggests a methodology to detect and evaluate three‐phase voltage and current unbalance/fault using a coherence algorithm. The suggested scheme develops integrated protection functions that can be divided into three modules: voltage unbalance, current unbalance, and power factor unbalance. Therefore, it can be useful in mitigation techniques applied to compensate the voltage unbalance effects. The present protection introduces a new proposal of closed‐tripping curves based on the values range of nine coherence factors. To investigate the protection performance, a segment of power grid with real parameters’ information is simulated utilizing ATP platform. Several fault types, such as shunt and series faults, are conducted on the simulated system to analyze the results and monitor the system status using the coherence statistic processed in MATLAB software. The results show that the approach is smart, swift, precise, reliable and stable. Moreover, the algorithm can be practically implemented, and represents a base for digital unbalance/fault detectors and relays because its performance is superior in detecting Power Quality Disturbances (PQDs).

Wind energy as the cleanest source of renewable energy requires a highly efficient lightweight generator that provides maximum power density while having the least vibration noise and maintenance. In this study, an axial air gap transverse flux machine is presented, and all excitation sources are located in the stator. This structure provides lower core loss, weight and cost due to the full utilisation of the permanent magnets, SMC‐free structure and short magnetic flux path. In fact, by combining the features of a flux‐switching machine into a transverse flux generator with an axial air gap, it is possible to improve the performance of a direct‐drive wind turbine generator by overcoming traditional structures' challenges. To analyse the axial transverse flux switching permanent magnet generator performance characteristics, 3D finite element simulations have been performed, which have been validated by comparing them to the practical results of a single‐phase prototype. The results are in agreement with an acceptable error that is caused by manufacturing uncertainties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The twisted structure of strand is ignored and the resistance of all parallel copper strands is assumed to be at the same temperature in existing temperature estimation method of water cooling stator windings. However, the twisted structure leads to the changing of thermal source and cooling structure, the uneven thermal distribution of parallel copper strands leads to uneven resistance distribution, both of which will influence thermal distribution of stator windings and should be considered in the temperature estimation method. In this study, the temperature estimation method considering twisted structure and uneven resistance distribution is first proposed, called three‐dimensional (3‐D) network method, in which the nodes of circuit network and thermal network are completely consistent. Then, the water cooling stator winding of a 1240‐MW turbo generator is taken as an example, the thermal distribution of which are calculated by the proposed method and validated by both short‐circuit type test data and 3‐D finite element method (FEM). Finally, the influence of twisted structure and resistance distribution on the thermal distribution is analysed in detail. The results show that the twisted structure has a great effect on thermal distribution, which cannot be ignored, while the resistance distribution has little effect on thermal distribution.