Sensing load and/or speed changes in a switched reluctance motor through current chopping

摘要

A method for detecting a change in motor load and/or motor speed is provided. The method includes the step of measuring the number of transitions (i.e., state changes) of a phase control signal in a motor phase of the motor. The method also includes the step of comparing the number of transitions to a predetermined number that is indicative of a predetermined motor load and/or motor speed. The predetermined number may comprise the number of transitions in a prior phase control signal of the motor. A method for controlling a motor responsive to a change in motor load and/or motor speed is also provided. The method includes the above- described steps for detecting a change in motor load and/or motor speed and further includes the step of selecting one of a plurality of operating modes for the motor responsive to a comparison value obtained by comparing the measured transition number with the predetermined transition number.