Structural-based modelling of a switched reluctance machine in faulty operation

A structural approach (bond graph) for modelling switched reluctance machines (SRM) is proposed. This approach makes apparent the topology of the machine and the energy exchange. This feature enables a model for the easy representation of faults, easy analysis of their consequences and the possibility to deduce methods for fault detection and damage mitigation. A reference 6/4 SRM is first modelled without faults. Thereafter, it is shown how to introduce a short circuit between windings of one phase and how to introduce an air-gap eccentricity. In order to illustrate the proposal, simulation results of the faulty conditions are shown and compared with the healthy condition.