Direct torque control based on second order sliding mode controller for three-level inverter-fed permanent magnet synchronous motor: comparative study

Introduction. The permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) has occupied a large area in the industry because of various benefits such as its simple structure, reduced moment of inertia, and quick dynamic response. Several control techniques have been introduced for the control of the PMSM. The direct torque control strategy associated to three-level clamped neutral point inverter has been proven its effectiveness to solve problems of ripples in both electromagnetic torque and stator flux with regard to its significant advantages in terms of fast torque response. Purpose. The use of a proportional integral speed controller in the direct torque control model results in a loss of decoupling with regard to parameter fluctuations (such as a change in stator resistance value induced by an increase in motor temperature), which is a significant drawback for this method at high running speeds. Methods. That is way a second order sliding mode controller based on the super twisting algorithm (STA) was implemented instead of PI controller to achieve a decoupled control with higher performance and to insure stability while dealing with parameter changes and external disturbances. Results. The simulation results carried out using MATLAB/Simulink software show that the model of direct torque control based on a three-level inverter-fed permanent magnet synchronous motor drive has better performance with second order sliding mode speed controller than the proportional integral controller. Through the response characteristics we see greater performance in terms of response time and reference tracking without overshoots. Decoupling, stability, and convergence toward equilibrium are all guaranteed. References 9, table 2, figures 9.