Flux Observer-Based Position Sensorless Control of PMaSyRM for Light Electric Vehicles with Regenerative Braking

This paper presents a flux observer-based control strategy for position estimation of a Permanent Magnet-Assisted Synchronous Reluctance Motor (PMaSyRM) and its application in Light Electric Vehicles (LEVs). The system operates based on reluctance torque and is driven by a three-phase Voltage Source Inverter (VSI). The motor's performance is enhanced using a Fluxbased Sliding Mode Observer (FSMO). To mitigate chattering, the conventional signum function in the Sliding Mode Observer (SMO) is replaced with a hyperbolic function. The drive assembly is powered by a battery source through a bidirectional DC-DC converter (BDDC). This converter not only facilitates battery charging via a PV panel but also enables regenerative braking, thereby extending the vehicle's range which is a critical factor for LEVs. The simulation and experimental results are presented in this study cover various operating modes, including acceleration, braking, and regeneration. The findings validate the system's effectiveness, demonstrating improved speed and position tracking dynamics across different operational conditions, such as acceleration, regeneration, and rated speed operation.