Sliding mode control of a permanent magnet synchronous generator for variable speed wind energy conversion systems

Difficulties in achieving the maximum level of efficiency in power extraction from available wind resources warrant the collective attention of modern control and power systems engineers. A strong movement towards sustainable energy resources, and advances in control system methodologies, make previously unattainable levels of efficiency possible. One such promising method is sliding mode control. This control method, touted for its robustness given un-modeled dynamics present in the system, provides ideal characteristics for application in the control of permanent magnet synchronous generators employed in variable speed wind energy conversion systems. Application of this method for control using dynamic models of the d-axis and q-axis currents, as well as those of the high speed shaft rotational speed show a high level of efficiency in power extraction from a varying wind resource.