Switching Techniques and Intelligent Controllers for Induction Motor Drive: Issues and Recommendations

Induction motor drive is widely used in many load applications in approximately 60% of the total industrial load. However, the dynamic configuration of the induction motor, especially a three-phase induction motor (TIM) is a nonlinear system which is not easy to explain theoretically due to sudden changes in load or speed. Therefore, the development of variable speed drive with a robust switching technique and controller design is compulsory for improving the performance efficiency of the TIM. An advanced switching strategy is used for controlling voltage, frequency, and reducing harmonic output signals while an efficient controller is required to regulate currents, speed, torque, and rotor flux. Nevertheless, the development of such controllers and switching methods need the extensive mathematical model and complex online computation. This paper presents a critical review of the different switching techniques, switching pattern of voltage space vectors and switching time to solve the existing problems and enhance the performance of the TIM. Also, the paper describes the different intelligent controller techniques in terms of scalar control and vector control. Consequently, a comprehensive review on conventional controllers such as proportional integral derivative and artificial intelligence controllers such as an artificial neural network, adaptive neural fuzzy inference system, and fuzzy logic control are explained on their structure, algorithm, and mathematical model. Furthermore, the different integrated circuits of the TIM drive controller are reviewed along with benefits and limitations, current issues and challenges, and conclude with recommendations. All the highlighted insights of this review will hopefully lead to increased efforts toward the development of the advanced switching techniques and controllers for the future induction motor drive.