H∞ Control of an Induction Heating Inverter

The industry strongly relies on PI controllers for induction heating inverters due to their simple design. Because correct load parameter estimation is almost impossible and their effect over electrical variables is not negligible, as it is presented in the paper, it is necessary a variation tolerant control algorithm. The present work proposes such advanced algorithms, based on different augmented plant models and on H∞ design method. The paper also focuses on the practical approach of the controller implementation on an experimental pilot. The advantages of the robust controller are justified by simulation results and experimental data, as compared to the classical PI controller solution.