An Algorithm for Offline Measurement of Motor Stator Resistance and Voltage Drop Across Inverter Switches for Washing Machine Drives

Abstract

The knowledge of the exact value of motor phase resistance is extremely important for modern electrical drives, which use it for tuning of current controllers, position estimators, temperature monitoring, and so on. At the same time, the value of voltage drop across inverter switches is necessary for providing proper and efficient control, especially in the low-speed region, where the impact of system nonlinearities is significant. This article proposes a novel algorithm for the offline measurement of motor resistance and voltage drop across inverter switches, which significantly improved the performance of washing machines in open-loop starting and low-speed operation. The proposed technique uses two step injection of dc current into stator windings, which provides data for the estimation of resistance and voltage drop. This article describes traps and pitfalls on the way of implementation and tuning and provides recommendations on avoiding them. After analysis of detailed experimental results, the author gives recommendation on a selection of algorithm parameters in order to provide low estimation errors. Following successful implementation and a series of tests, this technique has been accepted for mass production and has become an inevitable part of the control system of washing machines.