Behavioural Modelling of a Switched Reluctance Motor Drive for Aircraft Power Systems

A system-level behavioural modelling technique is described for a switched reluctance motor drive (SRMD). The model enables simple and efficient analysis or simulation of multiple drive systems such as pumps, actuators and engine starters within a more-electric network for example on-board an aircraft. The behavioural model is based on a power balance analysis. The transfer functions in the model are parameterised from experimental tests on the drive system, resulting in a simple model that only reproduces the average behaviour of the input-output variables necessary for system-level analysis. No data from the manufacturer is required to develop the model. The technique is discussed and validated using an engine starter in an aircraft test facility.