Real time implementation for a low-cost control for BLDC motor current ripple minimization

Abstract

Brushless DC motors are widely used due to many advantages such as high efficiency and low inertia. However, one of the main drawbacks of this motor type is related to the commutation current ripple. This paper deals with this issue encountered during brushless DC motor (BLDCM) control, by using a PI regulator implemented in upstream of the motor inverter. For this purpose, a BLDCM transfer function is established using identification toolbox system, based on a step voltage motor response, and further used to tune the regulator parameters. In this work, the duty ratio is varied twice, one time during commutation instant and the second time during the conduction period, in order to control the non-commutated phase current, presented as an image of the absorbed input current. This fact refers to commutated phases current slope control. Simulation results show a significant current ripple reduction for BLDCM which has also been confirmed using an experimental low-cost platform based on the Arduino Mega controller.