Simulation and Optimization of Multi-domain Systems using VHDL-AMS Application to the DTC Control

In recent years, many studies was developed to find out different solutions for the induction motor control having the features of precise and quick torque response and reduction of the complexity of field oriented algorithms. The Direct Torque Control (DTC) method is the most recent control technique used to achieve these requirements. Designing power electronic systems is based on accurate knowledge of the designers. The procedure allowing adjustment performances in order to respect requirements follows a “try and test” scheme. The design is done step by step, sizing each part but without computer assistance. In this paper, we show how a high level language can be used to model a system including many domains like digital and analogue electronics, power electronics, electrical motor, control, etc. Each domain must be described at the good level of abstraction taking into account the wanted level of results. When the system and its simulation are available, it is possible to drive many studies in a virtual way: comparison of control algorithms, technological choices, etc. At this level, it is possible to talk about Virtual Prototyping of a complex system. We show in this paper how this approach can be applied to the DTC Control of an asynchronous motor in order to optimize the control algorithm and the embedded hardware.