Multi-machine multi-converter system for drives: analysis of coupling by a global modeling

More and more electrical systems are composed of several electrical machines and several electrical and/or mechanical converters. Such systems are called multi-machine multi-converter systems (MMS) and are described by a specific formalism. Specific coupling structures are defined in order to distribute the energy. Three coupling structures are pointed out in drive applications: electrical, magnetic and mechanical coupling devices. Despite allowing a better energy distribution, these coupling structures also induce also some constraints on power components and some perturbations between the associated conversion chains. Decoupling control strategies may be developed in order to minimize these interactions. Three examples of the different couplings are presented according to this specific formalism.