Model predictive control of a dual induction motor drive fed by a single voltage source inverter

In dual induction motor control applications, averaging of controlled variables, mean circuit models, or master/slave strategies are used, which lead to unbalanced and unstable operation of the overall drive system. An improved finite control set predictive torque control (FCS-PTC) method is proposed for the parallel operation of two induction motors. The optimization cost function of the controller is shown to meet multiple objectives simultaneously, eliminating the use of averaging techniques and without leading to unbalanced conditions. The simulation results are compared with direct torque control (DTC) for dual induction motors. As compared to DTC, model predictive control shows low torque and flux ripple, 5% lower current THD, improved current balancing between the motors, and negligible effect of parameter mismatch.