Design and analysis of low voltage high current SRM for small automotive applications

The paper deals with the design and analysis of a low voltage high current switched reluctance machine used for small automotive applications. The design procedure is based on a numerical algorithm, validated later in simulations and measurements. The idea of the paper is based on designing a switched reluctance machine (SRM) used for driving a wheel chair for people with physical disabilities. The problem with such structures, involves a compromise between the maximum saturation of the core and its cooling, also taken into account the variation of the inductance with position when computing the firing angles. As the SRM has consistent torque ripples, different smoothing strategies need to be applied to the control of the machine´s inverter in order to obtain a developed torque that ensures comfort for the wheel chair´s driver.