Power supply loss ride-through and device voltage drop compensation in a matrix converter permanent magnet motor drive for an aircraft actuator

In any aerospace application it is important that the size and weight of power converters are minimized. This requirement, in conjunction with the absence of the requirement for electrolytic capacitors, suggests that matrix converters could be a very useful topology for aerospace applications. In order to investigate the possible advantages and problems associated with the use of matrix converters in this type of application a permanent magnet motor drive for a demonstration A320 electro-hydrostatic (EHA) Aileron actuation system has been built and tested. The Aileron is a primary flight surface due to it being critical to flight stability. Actuation of this type must exhibit the highest integrity to ensure safe operation of the aircraft. The matrix converter has been designed to function correctly under a range of operating scenarios found in many aerospace applications, including ride-through during temporary loss of supply. This paper presents the design, construction and testing of this matrix converter permanent magnet motor drive, including practical results for a range of operating conditions.