CMAC and B-spline neural networks applied to switched reluctance motor torque estimation and control

This paper describes the application of cerebellar model articulation controller (CMAC) and B-spline neural networks to switched reluctance motor (SRM) torque estimation and control. Non-linear adaptive systems such as neural networks are well suited to learning the highly non-linear electromagnetic characteristics of the SRM for the purposes of linearisation and simplification of their control and a number of researchers have investigated their use in this context. CMAC and B-spline neural networks are particularly suited to this application area due to their potential for low-cost, high-speed implementation including the capability for real-time, on-line adaptation. CMAC and B-spline neural networks have successfully been applied both to torque ripple minimisation and to torque estimation in simulation and, implemented using FPGA technology, experimentally. This paper describes those applications with particular emphasis on the suitability of the CMAC and B-spline neural networks and gives details of their FPGA implementation.