Sensorless Start-Up Synchronization of Multi-3-Phase Segmented PMSM for Electrical Aircraft Propulsion Systems

Multi-3-phase PMSM with isolated inverters and controls per 3-phase machine segment are beneficial for electric aviation, providing redundancy and segregation. Partial operation of machine segments can further be utilized for efficiency optimization. Thus, synchronization techniques are required for the re-startup of machine segments, and re-synchronization to the rotation machine. This work proposes a technique for sensorless non-intrusive segment synchronization of segmented multi-3-phase PMSM. A sensorless, non-intrusive and signal-less synchronization using BEMF measurement and an SMO input signal switchover is implemented and validated using a pHiL test setup for up to six 3-phase machine segments.