Matrix converters for sensorless control of PMSMs and other auxiliaries on deep-sea ROVs

The paper reports the use of matrix converter technologies for the control of actuators and other auxiliaries on-board work-class, deep-sea, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). A key requirement for such systems is the ability to sustain operation at high ambient pressures, up to 300 bar, commensurate with operation of ROVs at depths of 3000 m. A principal feature of the paper is the development of model-based sensorless control methodologies for driving permanent magnet synchronous machines (PMSMs) using matrix converters. It is shown that observer-based state-estimation techniques normally employed for sensorless control of PMSMs using voltage source inverters (VSIs) can be readily exported to matrix converter counterparts with minimal additional computational overhead. Experimental results demonstrate circuit functionality consistent with typical operational duties and the ability of the sensorless techniques to provide reliable estimates of machine rotor position under transient load conditions.