Discrete-time current regulator design for AC machine drives

This paper analyzes the behavior of discrete-time current regulators for AC machines operating at high ratios of fundamental-to-sampling frequencies, a situation common for high speed automotive drives and large traction drives. At high ratios of fundamental-to-sampling frequencies, highly oscillatory, or unstable, response can occur if the current regulator design does not properly incorporate the effects of the discrete nature of the controller, including delays between the sampling of signals and the application of the voltage commands through pulse-width modulation (PWM). This paper investigates these issues for different design methods and current regulator topologies. As part of this investigation a simple discrete-time domain AC machine model is developed that includes the delays associated with PWM. This model is then used to design a discrete-time domain version of the complex vector PI current regulator that demonstrates improved response compared with the other regulators studied. Simulation and experimental results are provided to compare the performance, stability, and robustness of the current regulators analyzed.