A Switched Reluctance Machine-Based Starter/Alternator for More Electric Cars

TLDR

Switched reluctance machines are promising starter/alternator candidates for more electric cars due to their robust high‑temperature performance, safety, high efficiency, long constant‑power region, and rugged structure. The study aims to develop sensorless, full‑speed closed‑loop torque and speed control technologies and analyze drive dynamics in motoring and generating modes to inform starter/alternator control strategies. The authors implemented sensorless, full‑speed operation with closed‑loop torque and speed regulation to improve SRM starter/alternator performance. Experiments and simulations confirm the practicality of the proposed sensorless, closed‑loop control technologies for SRM starter/alternator applications.

Abstract

Switched reluctance machines (SRMs) are considered as serious candidates for starter/alternator (S/A) systems in more electric cars. Robust performance in the presence of high temperature, safe operation, offering high efficiency, and a very long constant power region, along with a rugged structure contribute to their suitability for this high impact application. To enhance these qualities, we have developed key technologies including sensorless operation over the entire speed range and closed-loop torque and speed regulation. The present paper offers an in-depth analysis of the drive dynamics during motoring and generating modes of operation. These findings will be used to explain our control strategies in the context of the S/A application. Experimental and simulation results are also demonstrated to validate the practicality of our claims.