Space Vector Modulation (SVM) is a modulation technique used in pulse-width modulation (PWM) inverters to control the output voltage of an inverter and drive devices such as induction motors. It is often used in variable frequency drives (VFDs) to control the speed and torque of induction motors. SVM ensures optimal utilization of the DC bus voltage by generating voltage vectors in a way that maximizes the utilization of the available voltage space.
Here's how SVM achieves this:
Voltage Utilization: In a PWM inverter, the DC bus voltage is converted into an alternating voltage that can be applied to the motor. SVM attempts to use as much of the available DC bus voltage as possible while generating the desired output voltage. This is important because higher utilization of the DC bus voltage results in more efficient utilization of the available power supply.
Voltage Vector Selection: SVM works by selecting specific voltage vectors that correspond to the desired output voltage and applying them to the motor. These voltage vectors are represented as phasors in a complex plane, often referred to as the "space vector plane." By carefully choosing these voltage vectors, SVM aims to generate an equivalent output voltage that matches the desired amplitude and frequency while utilizing the available DC bus voltage optimally.
Sector-based Modulation: The space vector plane is divided into six sectors, each corresponding to a different combination of active switching states in the inverter's three-phase legs. Each sector contains a set of voltage vectors that can be combined to achieve the desired output voltage. SVM selects the appropriate voltage vectors based on the position of the desired voltage vector within the sector. This ensures that the output voltage is accurate while maximizing the voltage utilization.
Vector Angle Calculation: SVM calculates the angle of the desired voltage vector in the space vector plane. This angle determines the combination of active switching states that need to be applied to the inverter's switches to generate the desired output voltage. The angle calculation is done based on the reference voltage and the available voltage vectors within the corresponding sector.
Voltage Vector Combination: Once the desired angle is calculated, SVM selects the nearest voltage vectors from the active sector. These voltage vectors are combined in specific proportions to create the final output voltage that matches the desired voltage vector angle. This combination of voltage vectors ensures that the available DC bus voltage is used efficiently.
By selecting appropriate voltage vectors and combining them intelligently, SVM ensures that the modulation process efficiently utilizes the DC bus voltage while generating the desired output voltage waveform for driving induction motors. This optimization contributes to improved energy efficiency and better motor control performance in variable frequency drive applications.