Performance Improvement for Segmented-Stator Hybrid-Excitation SRM Drives Using an Improved Asymmetric Half-Bridge Converter

This paper presents an improved asymmetric half-bridge converter (AHBC) to enhance the output performance of a segmented-stator hybrid-excitation switched reluctance motor (SSHE-SRM) drive. Differences from conventional AHBC include an additional boost capacitor, a power switch, and two diodes added between the dc-bus and the AHBC. The static torque characteristic of a 12/8 SSHE-SRM is briefly analyzed and compared with a conventional SRM (CSRM). Based on the magnetic characteristic, the SSHE-SRM appears to have higher torque production capability. The improved AHBC is employed in order to increase the dc-bus voltage under dynamic operation. Higher voltage can be applied to phase windings and faster excitation and demagnetization currents can be obtained owing to the addition of capacitor voltage. Detailed simulations of the SSHE-SRM drive with the improved AHBC are carried out as well as compared with conventional AHBC. Finally, a 12/8 SSHE-SRM is prototyped. The SSHE-SRM drive based on the improved AHBC and conventional AHBC are experimentally tested. The measured results of static magnetic characteristic and dynamic performances are presented to validate the analysis and effectiveness of the novel converter.