FPGA based processor in the loop analysis of variable reluctance machine with speed control

This paper details on an advanced analysis of a Variable Reluctance Machine, designed to be used for light electric vehicle propulsion. The goal is to setup a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) based Processor-in-the-Loop simulation test bench for the proposed machine, in such way, that emulates the real machine and control unit as close as possible. Hence, two FPGAs are used, one running the Field Oriented Control unit, the other one running the machine model. The communication between these devices is performed via the digital and analog I/Os. Hardware tools from National Instruments are used and the FPGAs are programmed using LabVIEW FPGA graphical programming environment. The chosen control strategy for the machine is the Maximum Torque per Ampere Control, in addition to the classical Field Oriented speed Control.