Improved performance and robustness of synchronous reluctance machine control using an advanced sliding mode and direct vector control

This article focuses on improving the control approach for a synchronous reluctance motor (SynRM) drive powered by a two-level pulse width modulation (PWM) inverter. While classical sliding mode control (SMC) has been extensively used in control system design, it comes with various drawbacks such as pronounced chattering effects, considerable transient state errors, and reduced robustness. These limitations hinder its practical applicability. To enhance the performance of the SynRM, this paper introduces a novel strategy that combines direct vector control (DVC) with advanced sliding mode control (ASMC), here referring to third-order sliding mode command (TOSMC), for regulating speed and dq-axis stator currents. The primary objective of this approach is to achieve precise and efficient control while minimizing total harmonic distortion (THD) in current and reducing output torque fluctuations. Notably, this strategy capitalizes on the strengths of TOSMC and DVC. The efficacy of the proposed control scheme is verified through two sets of thorough simulations realized in MATLAB/Simulink environment. The first set of simulations encompasses the load–torque test, where the motor is subjected to two different levels of load torque. The results from these tests showcase the control scheme's performance under varying load conditions. The second set of simulations involves the speed variation test, where intentional changes are applied to the motor's speed. This test assesses the control approach's ability to handle dynamic speed changes effectively. The proposed control strategy is further compared with conventional control methods, including proportional–integral and second-order sliding mode command (SOSMC) controls. The results consistently demonstrate the superior performance of the novel approach in terms of accurate control, robustness, and overall stability. The combination of DVC and TOSMC offers a promising avenue for achieving enhanced motor control in the presence of load disturbances and speed variations.