Speed Control of a Multiphase Active Way Linear Motor Based on Back EMF Estimation

This paper presents the implementation and the experimental validation of the speed controller, without position measurement, of an active way linear synchronous motor with multiphase independent supply. The proposed method is based on the back electromotive force estimation. The main drawback of this strategy is that it does not work at standstill. This paper also presents a second contactless method that, by making use of Hall sensors, allows starting the glider from standstill. These two methods have been implemented on a prototype, to demonstrate the feasibility of the speed control of the active way linear motor without position measurement cables.