[Objective] The extended kalman filter (EKF) is widely used in sensorless brushless DC motor drive systems and can recursively estimate rotor position and speed based on the nonlinear motor model. However
the inherent linearization characteristic of the EKF results in limited approximation accuracy
making the estimator extremely sensitive to parameter uncertainties
model mismatches
and deviations in noise statistics. These limitations can cause the estimated electrical angle and speed to drift over time
leading to commutation errors and significantly reducing motor operating performance. [Methods] To address this issue
this paper proposed a commutation error correction method based on the phase synchronization between the fundamental components of phase back electromotive force and phase current. Firstly
a variable center frequency fundamental extraction filter was employed to extract the fundamental components of both phase current and phase back electromotive force. Secondly
using the vector relationships in the two-phase coordinate system
a commutation error indicator was constructed. When this commutation error indicator was greater than zero
it indicated lagging commutation
when less than zero
it indicated leading commutation. Finally
the commutation error indicator was closed-loop regulated through a proportional integral controller
driving it toward zero and thereby achieving adaptive correction of the commutation timing. [Results] The simulation and experimental results showed good consistency. The proposed method exhibited strong robustness against phase errors induced by various non-ideal factors within the control loop
effectively correcting commutation errors
significantly improving the symmetry of the current waveforms
rendering the commutation process smoother and more stable. Under both lagging and leading commutation conditions
the peak-to-peak values of phase current were reduced by 75% and 67% respectively
and the rotor position error remained within 0.2 rad. [Conclusion] The proposed commutation error correction method based on EKF and phase synchronization of fundamental components between phase current and phase back electromotive force effectively corrects commutation errors
significantly reduces power loss
and enhances both system efficiency and operational stability.