Sensorless Fault-Tolerant Control of Dual Three-Phase Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor

Abstract

Dual three-phase permanent magnet synchronous motors (DTPMSM) are used in the steer-by-wire system of electric vehicles that require high reliability. Multiple faults should be considered for the steering system, such as open-circuit faults and speed sensor faults. However, the current speed sensorless control methods of the dual three-phase motor are mainly derived from the promotion of the three-phase motor. They fail when an open-circuit fault occurs, leading to the failure of fault-tolerant control. Researchers have noticed this problem and proposed many methods, but they are very complicated and computationally intensive. This paper proposes one type of improved model reference adaptive system (MRAS). By adding certain fault-related restraints to the output of the adjustable model, speed sensorless control can automatically fit the open-circuit fault and estimate accurately even if an open-circuit fault occurs, which makes sure the whole system continues to operate. Simulation results are presented that contain normal operation, open-circuit fault operation, fault-tolerant control operation, and the whole process from start to fault-tolerant operation. The results show that no matter what period the motor is in, the improved speed sensor can accurately estimate the motor speed and position. The improved model reference adaptive system is significant for improving the reliability of the motor steering system and ensuring the safety of people and property.