A novel motor / converter topology for high-speed, high-power motor applications

A novel motor/converter topology is presented, which is ideal for high-power, high-speed motor applications; especially in the case of using permanent magnet AC motors. The proposed topology utilizes space-shifted, split-phase, stator configuration, with a modular converter topology. The unique stator configuration allows the harmonic current from different phases to cancel each other out. Therefore, the proposed topology does not require the high-frequency PWM normally needed to reduce the time domain harmonic currents. The switching frequency of the power converters can be as low as the fundamental frequency, which significantly reduces the switching losses, associated EMI mitigation, and cooling challenges. The modularity of the proposed topology also simplifies overall system design and manufacturing, provides redundancy and inherent fault-tolerance. In this paper, the system topology and control strategy are discussed. Simulation and mathematical analysis results are presented to illustrate the harmonic cancellation and other advantages of the proposed topology. Experimental results also confirm the validity of the proposed system topology.