Novel structure of single-phase generator from three-phase induction machine: Modeling and simulation

This paper presents a new configuration of an off-grid single-phase generator using a three-phase induction machine. The use of this kind of machine, cheap and robust, is in line with the “jugaad” philosophy, better known as frugal innovation. In such an application, three-phase induction machines are usually operated as stand-alone single-phase generator which are either self-excited using terminal capacitor or energized from a variable excitation source. In the proposed structure, the three windings of the induction machine are separated; two of the windings are excited by two independent excitation sources and the remaining winding is connected load. This configuration requires two inverters for excitation. This allows a reduced power rating for both inverters and better control flexibility. Mathematic model of the generator has been made to study its dynamic performance. The transient and the steady-state behavior are presented in simulations.