Predictive Control Strategy for Two Five-Phase Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors Connected in Series Powered by A Single Inverter

This paper presents the development and application of a Model Predictive Control (MPC) strategy for two five-phase permanent magnet synchronous machines (PMSMs) connected in series and supplied by a single five-leg inverter. The objective is to minimize circulating currents while ensuring accurate and independent control of each machine. A mathematical model of the system, consisting of two identical PMSMs with series-connected stator windings, is first established to demonstrate the feasibility of decoupled control despite the use of a common inverter. The MPC strategy is then applied, relying on the prediction of future inverter switching states using the discrete-time system model, with the optimal state selected according to a predefined cost function. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is validated through simulations conducted in MATLAB/Simulink, which confirm significant improvements in the system’s dynamic performance, enhanced operational efficiency, and the successful realization of independent control of the two series-connected five-phase machines.