Analysis and design of a low cost converter for switched reluctance motor drives

The analysis and design of a low-cost, one-switch-per-phase converter topology suitable for low-performance applications in switched reluctance motor (SRM) drives is presented. The converter has the advantage of a minimum possible number of semiconductor devices in the power circuit without the attendant need for a bifilar winding. Consequently, its drive requirements are minimal and the windings are simple. This is achieved through the elimination of the additional semiconductor switch(es) normally required for regeneration. Energy stored in the phase windings during conduction time is partially dissipated in a resistor, while the rest is converted to mechanical power. A complete steady-state analysis of the drive is given, including the input filter parameters. Closed-form expressions for determining the current and voltage stresses on the semiconducting devices are derived and cast in normalized form for use in selecting the ratings of the power devices. Experimental verification of the key results is provided from a 6/4 pole SRM drive system.<>