Design and control characterization of switched reluctance generator for maximum output power

Maximization of power throughput of switched reluctance generator has been addressed in this paper. Phase self-inductance, phase voltage switching angles, DC bus voltage level and shaft speed of the generator have been identified as design parameters and control variables affecting output power. Depending on the application each one can be defined as either design parameter or control variable. Due to highly nonlinear characteristics of switched reluctance generator, there is no analytical equation for output power in terms of design parameters and control variables. So, iterative simulation of the generator model on the range of design parameters and control variables has been used for finding output power profile. Since it is a multidimensional search space, the number of iterations is very big. Therefore, we have used theoretical knowledge about the generator and practical limitations to narrow the search space and reduce simulation time. Output power profile of a 1hp generator has been presented from simulation results. These results have been verified by experimental measurements on a test-bed in the lab. The results give the performance of switched reluctance generator for the range of machine parameters and control variables. They show the existence of optimal output power and give guidance for design of the generator and its controller.