Direct model reference control of an induction motor

High performance induction motor drive systems typically rely on field oriented control methods. However, achieving field oriented control requires machine specific knowledge, and tracking of drifting motor parameters in order to maintain control. This paper presents an alternative method of control based on a direct model reference adaptive control algorithm which does not require exact knowledge of motor parameters. The algorithm does not rely on maintaining a field oriented state, and is demonstrated to be robust with respect to parameter variations. The paper presents the control theory with experimental results. It is shown through experiment that the control approach is insensitive to motor saturation and parameter variations encountered in motors of similar rating and different manufacturer