FPGA implementation of a predictive control for a PMSM with variable switching frequency

In this paper a FPGA control platform suitable for the implementation of a model based predictive control of the PMSM (Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine) with variable switching frequency is presented. The control strategy takes advantage of the parallel processing capabilities and of the possibility to customize peripherals otherwise impossible by using conventional microcontrollers. A special feature of the presented proposal, is the online adaptable PWM that can be used for the reconfiguration of the control at the beginning of each period and for changing the switching frequency of the inverter. The proposed predictive control scheme is based on a field oriented control scheme, predicting and optimizing the switching frequency on each sample time and aiming to a reduction of the switching losses. Experimental results confirm the suitability of the control platform for these purposes.