Predictive Speed Estimation for Encoderless Control of an Induction Motor Fed by Delta Sigma Modulated Matrix Converter

Predictive control has emerged as a popular tool in the modulation of power converters and control of sensorless motor drives. However, it is associated with inherent limitations, such as increased processor burden and heuristic weight tuning, when dealing with multiple objectives. Moreover, in applications, such as modulation of matrix converters, predictive control necessitates input filter modeling, besides requiring repeated reruns of load (and input filter) models for securing the most optimum state selection. This article deals with the restricted use of predictive control as an estimation technique only, for speed sensorless control of an induction motor through delta sigma modulated matrix converter. Delta-sigma technique permits conveniently implementable modulation for the power converter, whereas predictive estimation of flux, torque, and speed ensures high precision even at near zero motor speed. Both predictive control and delta-sigma modulation work in tandem, to provide a robust drive solution, as demonstrated through a wide range of simulation and experimental results.