Switched Reluctance Motor Control – Basic Operation and Example Using the TMS320F240

Abstract

This report describes the basic operation of switched reluctance motors (SRMs) and demonstrates how a TMS320F240 DSP-based SRM drive from Texas Instruments (TI]) can be used to achieve a wide variety of control objectives. The first part of the report offers a detailed review of the operation and characteristics of SRMs. The advantages and disadvantages of this type of motor are cited. The second part of the report provides an example application of a four-quadrant, variable speed SRM drive system using a shaft position sensor. The example has complete hardware and software details for developing an SRM drive system using the TMS320F240. The SRM operation is described, along with the theoretical basis for designing the various control algorithms. The example can be used as a baseline design which can be easily modified to accommodate a specific application. This report contains material previously released in the Texas Instruments application report Developing an SRM Drive System Using the TMS320F240 (literature number SPRA420), and has been updated for inclusion in the Application Design Kit (ADK) for switched reluctance motors.