Abstract: The load side converter or inverter in a load commutated inverter motor drive, including a source side AC to DC converter coupled to a DC to AC converter via a DC link circuit, is adapted to have at least three and preferably four modes of operation for bringing an AC motor load, and more particularly a synchronous motor, up to speed. In the preferred embodiment, the first mode constitutes an idle mode wherein the converter thyristors are maintained in a non-conducting state until commanded for normal operation. The second mode constitutes an initial start-up mode which assumes no knowledge of initial rotor position of the motor and simply utilizes a fixed low frequency firing signal to sequentially gate the thyristors using forced commutation to commutate the off-going thyristor.

Abstract: Flux signals suitable for use in a control of an ac motor are generated as a function of the voltages and currents furnished to the motor. From sensed values of motor phase voltages and currents, signals representing the direct and quadrature values of motor voltage and current as well as total motor current are developed. Employing a closed loop path, these signals are utilized to develop signals representing the direct and quadrature components of the value of motor flux. The closed path develops a resistance signal representing the instantaneous motor resistance as a function of the total motor current and flux which resistance signal is employed in the development of the various flux signals.