Induction-Machine-Based Starter/Generator Systems: Techniques, Developments, and Advances

The starter/generator (SG) system is widely used in various applications, including more-electric/hybrid electric aircraft (MEA/HEA) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). The electric machine operates as a motor to provide the required torque to start the engine. Once the engine starts, the same electric machine transforms to a generator to produce electrical power. With the advantages of a simple and robust structure, low cost and maintenance, and a good overload capability, the cage-type induction machine (IM) is a competitive candidate for SG systems. The research on system topologies mainly focuses on dc power systems, while ac and hybrid ac/dc power systems are investigated to satisfy the diversity requirement for the power supply. A number of control strategies are intensely studied for the effective integration of the double functions of starting and generating, mainly including flux -oriented control (FOC) and direct torque control (DTC). Although there have been several reports on IM -based SG systems, many important aspects still must be investigated and improved