Vector Projection-based Sensorless Control of a SynRM Drive Including Self and Cross-Saturation

This paper presents a sensorless technique for Synchronous Reluctance Motor (SynRM) drives that is based on a vector projection method. The proposed technique model-based and takes into consideration the magnetic saturation of the motor, both self and cross-saturation, as well as iron losses. It is based on the dynamic equation of the SynRM, rewritten in integral form, and does not involve any high-frequency carrier injection. The technique has been tested through numerical simulations and experimentally, using a suitably developed test set-up. Experimental results show that the sensorless SynRM drive delivers good dynamic performance effectively handling speed transients across a wide range. It achieves speed reversals at low speeds down to 3% of the motor's rated speed, while maintaining good accuracy in speed and position estimation. Additionally, it exhibits a strong load rejection capability.