An expeditious method for implementing a full redundant drive in HiLS with the use of PLC and user interface panel

A Full Redundant Drive consists of two independent drive units each supplying the stator windings of a dual winding synchronous motor. The implementation of a Full Redundant Drive on the Hardware in Loop Simulation platform provides faster and an economical solution for testing the drive control software without any compromise in controller transient and steady state response. This paper describes a method to realize and implement drive redundancy on a real time simulator. Different operating modes of the drive like full redundancy and half redundancy with automatic changeover between the modes using manual triggers have been tested and validated in real time simulation environment. For interacting with the simulator and the drive inputs and outputs, an external Programmable Logic Controller has been used which, also ensures a faster configuration implementation and test setup automation. Besides, a User Interface Panel ensures real time user interaction for configuring different modes of operation of the drive with real time display of the drive status and system parameters. The simulation results from both manual and automated testing are presented in detail.