Self-tuning control of a switched reluctance motor drive with shaft position sensor

The control of the switched reluctance motor (SRM) is usually based on the inductance profiles as a function of position. This paper addresses the problem of obtaining optimal performance from an SRM in the presence of parameter variation which can alter the phase inductance profiles. The operation of an SRM drive in the controlled current mode from zero to base speed is considered. New self-tuning algorithms are presented which optimize the steady-state performance of the drive as measured by torque per ampere (TPA). Computer simulations are employed to show the existence and uniqueness of a solution to the optimal TPA problem. The application of the new control strategy is explained in the context of a speed controlled drive system. Experimental results are provided to demonstrate the validity of the self-tuning controller.