Improved vector control strategy of linear induction motors for electromagnetic launch

Due to the change of parameters caused by the dynamic longitudinal end effect, the operation characteristics of linear induction motors (LIMs) applied in an electromagnetic launch field are different from that of ordinary LIM. Due to the continuous increase of the LIM port voltage under high acceleration, the phase voltage is close to the inverter output limit. The conventional indirect field-oriented control (IFOC) strategies of LIM based on the flux attenuation compensation or maximum thrust control cannot solve the problem well. Based on the LIM mathematical model, this study analyses the output thrust characteristics of the LIM and discusses different control methods. This study presents an improved vector control strategy. By dynamically adjusting the value of 'k' based on the moving speed of the LIM, the maximum thrust output is maintained at medium and low speeds, and the voltage rise of a motor port is restrained at high speed. The effectiveness of the proposed control method is verified by simulation and experiment. The method proposed in this study is helpful to broaden the application of the LIM in the higher speed field.