Synchronous Motor Out-of-Step Detection via Phase Current Analysis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for detecting out-of-step conditions in synchronous motors are not precise, leading to uncontrollable motor speed and potential safety risks, especially under high system loads.

Innovation Solution

A method that detects three-phase currents using a Hall sensor and digital signal processor to determine if the amplitudes and phase differences between currents satisfy preset requirements, classifying the type of out-of-step condition to initiate protective measures.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If existing out-of-step detection methods are used, then the detection process is simple, but the detection precision is insufficient leading to uncontrollable motor speed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveout-of-step detection precisionVSAvoiddetection method complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The detection method is segmented into multiple independent analysis dimensions: amplitude comparison of three-phase currents, frequency spectrum analysis, and phase difference calculation. Each dimension independently checks for out-of-step conditions, improving detection precision without requiring a single complex detection mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces intermediate calculation steps including current amplitude extraction, frequency spectrum transformation, and phase difference computation as mediators between the raw current signals and the final out-of-step determination. These intermediaries enable precise detection while maintaining modular system architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If out-of-step detection is not implemented, then the system operates continuously without interruption, but safety risks and losses increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem safetyVSAvoidmotor continuous operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary out-of-step detection by continuously monitoring three-phase current characteristics before the motor reaches a dangerous out-of-step state. The detection method calculates amplitude relationships and phase differences in advance, enabling preventive action before safety risks materialize, thus maintaining both reliability and productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Measurement precision

If precise out-of-step detection is implemented, then safety is enhanced, but the detection and response time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveout-of-step detection accuracyVSAvoiddetection and response time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The detection system employs periodic sampling of three-phase currents at optimized intervals, performing amplitude comparison, frequency analysis, and phase difference calculation in cyclic batches. This periodic approach maintains high detection accuracy while minimizing continuous computational overhead and response time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables precise detection of out-of-step conditions, reducing losses and enhancing safety by accurately identifying the type of out-of-step and triggering protective processes such as turning off PWM waves.

Implementation Method 1

detecting three-phase currents of a synchronous motor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHall effect: Hall Effect

Data Source

PatentEP2901546B1Method for checking out-of-step of synchronous motor
Publication Date: 2021.03.03 BYD CO LTD
  • EP2901546B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2901546B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP2901546B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

A method for checking an out-of-step of a synchronous motor includes detecting three-phase currents of the synchronous motor; determining whether a relationship between the three-phase currents satisfies a preset requirement; and if no, determining that the synchronous motor is out of step. It is determined that the synchronous motor is out of step when amplitudes of each current of the three-phase currents are not equal or when the phase difference between the three-phase currents is not 120°.