The synchronous reluctance solution: a new alternative in AC drives

The modern synchronous reluctance motor drive is illustrated as a new incoming technology solution. High anisotropy motor design is briefly summarized. The obtainable performance in terms of torque-per-volume is then compared to that of brushless and induction motors. With reference to traditional vector current control, the peculiarities of the synchronous reluctance motor drive are shown. Moreover, the effect of some second-order control aspects are evidenced, together with the possible advantages of adoption of flux-observer based schemes. Finally, both research and industrial trends in this field are summarized