Opportunities in estimation and control of electrical machines

This paper discusses the opportunities that electrical machines present for the development and application of estimation and control theory. The expected practical benefits to be derived from this research motivate the discussion. Alternating current electrical machines are emphasized throughout. Physical models of electrical machines are reviewed, and model simplifications are examined. All models exhibit significant nonlinearities and periodicities, and a wide spectrum of dynamics. This makes the estimation and control of electrical machines challenging. Estimation and control opportunities are then discussed in the context of practical goals. Illustrative results achieved to date are reviewed, and directions for continued research are suggested.