A new method for controlling an induction motor using a hybrid discretization model predictive field orientated control

The dynamic performance of the Model Predictive Control (MPC) of an Induction Motor (IM) relies on the accuracy and computational efficiency of the Discretisation Technique (DT). If the discretisation process is inaccurate or slow approximation, the MPC will exhibit high torque ripple and lower load handling capabilities. Traditionally, Euler’s method is used to discretise the MPC, which merely relies on the predictor to yield a fast, but less accurate system approximation. In contrast, Heun’s method uses a combination of predictor and corrector at alternate sampling intervals to improve the discretisation accuracy; however, the controller response becomes slow due to increased computational intensity of the algorithm. In this study, a new Hybrid Discretisation Technique (HDT) for Model Predictive Field Oriented Control (MPFOC) for IM control systems is presented to achieve robust discretisation with improved accuracy. In the proposed approach, Euler’s method is used to discretise the system at the first nine samples, followed by the predictor-corrector at the tenth sampling interval, accomplishing the desired speed and accuracy of discretisation. This newly proposed HDT in MPFOC is verified with Processor-In-Loop (PIL) for a three-phase IM with bi-directional rotation under varying load conditions. The results indicate that the IM torque ripple is reduced by up to 20%, whereas, the load handling capability is increased by up to 10%. Moreover, the controller gives 20% and 23% improvement in rise time and settling time, respectively, under high loading conditions, as compared to traditional Euler and Heun methods.