Comparative Study of Sequential Model Predictive Torque Control Techniques Applied to a Six-Phase Induction Machine

Multiphase electric drive systems, which consist of power electronic converters and multiphase machines (with n greater than 3), have become a reliable solution for various high-power industrial needs, including propulsion systems for electric ships, vehicles and renewable energy applications, due to their phase redundancy. However, fully exploiting their inherent benefits requires more sophisticated control techniques. The finite control set model predictive control has emerged as a suitable strategy due to its ease of implementation and applicability across different systems. Nevertheless, tuning the weighting factor in the cost function significantly impacts control outcomes, making it an important aspect to consider. In this context, novel control techniques named Sequential Model Predictive Control (SMPTC) and Sequential Model Predictive Control based on Virtual Vectors (SMPTC-VV) have emerged as viable alternatives. Both methods eliminate weighting factors by using simple cost functions applied sequentially. SMPTC-VV integrates virtual vectors to reduce the secondary-plane currents, decreasing vibrations in induction machines. Despite the recent introduction of SMPTC and SMPTC-VV strategies, studies comparing the performance of these controllers have not yet been conducted. Therefore, this article presents a comparative study of these control techniques.