sustainability
Article
Enhanced Direct Reactive Power Control-Based Multi-Level
Inverter for DFIG Wind System under Variable Speeds
Salah Tamalouzt 1 , Youcef Belkhier 1 , Younes Sahri 1 , Mohit Bajaj 2 , Nasim Ullah 3 ,
Md. Shahariar Chowdhury 4 , Teerawet Titseesang 5 and Kuaanan Techato 4,5,6, *






Citation: Tamalouzt, S.; Belkhier, Y.;
Sahri, Y.; Bajaj, M.; Ullah, N.;
Chowdhury, M.S.; Titseesang, T.;
Techato, K. Enhanced Direct Reactive
Power Control-Based Multi-Level
Inverter for DFIG Wind System under
Variable Speeds. Sustainability 2021,
13, 9060. https://doi.org/10.3390/
su13169060
Academic Editor: Pablo
García Triviño
Received: 4 July 2021
Accepted: 7 August 2021
Published: 13 August 2021
Publisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral
with regard to jurisdictional claims in
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iations.
Copyright: © 2021 by the authors.
Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.
This article is an open access article
distributed under the terms and
conditions of the Creative Commons
Attribution (CC BY) license (https://
creativecommons.org/licenses/by/
4.0/).
Sustainability 2021, 13, 9060. https://doi.org/10.3390/su13169060
1 Laboratoire de Technologie Industrielle et de l’Information (LTII), Faculté de Technologie, Université de
Bejaia, Bejaia 06000, Algeria; salah.tamalouzt@univ-bejaia.dz (S.T.); youcef.belkhier@univ-bejaia.dz (Y.B.);
younes.sahri@univ-bejaia.dz (Y.S.)
2 National Institute of Technology, Delhi 110040, India; mohitbajaj@nitdelhi.ac.in
3 Department of Electrical Engineering, College of Engineering, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944,
Saudi Arabia; nasimullah@tu.edu.sa
4 Faculty of Environmental Management, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai 90112, Thailand;
mdshahariar.c@psu.ac.th
5 Faculty of Business Administration, King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, Bangkok 10520,
Thailand; teerawet.ti@kmitl.ac.th
6 Environmental Assessment and Technology for Hazardous Waste Management Research Center, Faculty of
Environmental Management, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai 90112, Thailand
* Correspondence: kuaanan.t@psu.ac.th
Abstract: A novel direct reactive power control strategy based on the three-level inverter topology
(DRPC-3N) is proposed for a doubly fed induction generator (DFIG)-based wind power plant
system. The robustness against parametric variations and control performances of the presented
methodology are analyzed under random wind speeds, taking into account the effect of the heating
of the windings as well as the saturation of the magnetic circuit. The performance indices include
obtaining a sinusoidal AC-generated current with low THD and less ripples in the output. Moreover,
the generator can be considered as a reactive power compensator, which allows for the controlling
of the active and reactive power of the stator side connected directly to the grid side using only the
rotor converter. In this study, unpredictable conduct of the wind velocity that forces the DFIG to
operate through all modes of operation in a continual and successive way is considered. The received
wind power is utilized to extract the optimum power by using an appropriate MPPT algorithm,
and the pitch angle control is activated during the overspeed to restrict the produced active power.
The simulation tests are performed under Matlab/Simulink and the presented results show the
robustness and effectiveness of the new DRPC strategy with the proposed topology, which means
that the performances are more sophisticated.
Keywords: grid-connected wind turbine conversion; random behavior wind speed; direct reactive
power control; three-level inverter; doubly fed induction generator
1. Introduction
Among the most efficient power generation systems, mention may be made of wind
power generation systems. However, in the case of grid-connected structures, different
electrical generators can be used. The DFIG remains widely used, because of the possibility
of achieving high efficiencies in energy production and the ability to have an independent
control of both active and reactive powers without using capacitors for reactive power
compensation [1]. In addition, this generator’s major benefit is the power converters, which
are smaller than traditional full-size stator converters. Several techniques are proposed in
the literature to develop adequate, economical, and effective micro-grid-connected wind
energy conversion systems [2–22]. The direct torque control method is a competitive control
approach because of the advantages of simplicity, lower machine parameters dependency,
https://www.mdpi.com/journal/sustainability
Sustainability 2021, 13, 9060 2 of 26

and high dynamic and steady state performances. Several research works have addressed
this method [14–19]. However, in [16–19], authors have studied the wind turbine (WT)-
DFIG system in a continual and successive way, but in refs. [16–18], the investigation was
carried out at a fixed wind speed in each mode. Except in [19], which studies have been
developed in a general and superficial way? Meanwhile the real interests, and the benefits
of the operation and use of the DFIG in addition to the operation of the direct reactive
power control method, using the multi-level inverter, are not addressed. In the field of
control systems, it is well known that emerging control techniques such as a fuzzy logic
controller (FLC) are a good solution for complex systems where the models are unknown
or in cases where there is a lack of data in their parameters. In addition, they are easy
to implement. The applications of FLCs in renewable energy systems are reported in
the literature [19–22]. They show a remarkable flexibility. This latter feature prompted
us to combine this technique and DTC, getting the direct reactive power control (DRPC)
technique, thereby enjoying the benefits of both at the same time.
Multi-level structures based on inverters enhance the efficiency of the load power.
Multi-level inverters have benefits over the typical two-level inverters that need high
switching frequency. Multi-level inverters are attracting more researchers’ attention because
of the high efficiency, important voltage operating capacity, fewer switching losses, and
low output of electromagnetic interference. Multi-level converters are able to provide
extremely low distortion of voltages; they are also able to minimize the stress of dv/dt,
thereby reducing difficulties of electromagnetic compatibility. They can be used for both
basic frequencies and high PWM switching frequencies [23–25].
The DRPC application for a multi-level inverter was never mentioned in the literature,
which especially failed to take into account the random nature of wind and its sudden
changes. The two main disadvantages of control methods can be summarized in their
sensitivity to external disturbances and their tracking of references to sudden variations.
The exploitation of different advantages of the WT-DFIG system, fuzzy controllers, multi-
level inverters, and DRPC during all modes of operation in a continual and successive
way is addressed in this paper. In addition, the DFIG synchronous operation can take
a considerable amount of time in reality, so it requires a specific study, especially if the
random behavior of the wind is taken into account.
The main novelties and contributions reported in this paper are summarized as below:
• A new non-linear control strategy based on fuzzy DRPC applied to a three-level
inverter (DRPC-3N) that supplied the rotor of the DFIG-WT system while considering
random wind variations and all DFIG’s operation modes, even the overspeed case.
The new DRPC-3N has been introduced to solve the problem of ripples and power
quality during all operation modes, even the overspeed case.
• The FC’s member functions and the fuzzy rules are modified using numerical tests in
a way to solve WT-DFIG system constraints and drawbacks faced by the conventional
controls.
• The performance and quality of the proposed method and topology are tested under
certain restrictions that reflect the actual wind behavior for a power plant, like the
stochastic nature of wind velocity with the treatment of all operation modes (sub-
synchronous, super-synchronous, and synchronous modes, as well as the overspeed)
in a continual and successive manner.
• The MPPT algorithm has been invested to optimize the generated power under the
three operation modes: sub-, super-, and synchronous modes, while the pitch angle
control has been used under the overspeed to limit the generated power.
• The performances of the proposed DRPC-3N are compared to DRPC-2N, where the
robustness tests and the ripples of reactive power, rotor flux, and electromagnetic
as well as the generated current’s THD have been analyzed to show the significant
improvement of the proposed strategy.
In this paper, the studied system and the proposed method are presented. Then, the
models of both WT and the DFIG are described. The MPPT algorithm that is invested
Sustainability 2021, 13, 9060 3 of 26

to maximize the generated power below a nominal turbine speed is introduced. Beyond
the nominal turbine speed, maintaining the reference speed constant is necessary. When
the nominal power is reached, the maximization of the power extraction is to regulate
the generated power to the desired value, acting on the blades’ pitch angle, i.e., pitch
angle control. The control of the reactive power is obtained by acting on the rotor flux,
whereas the electromagnetic torque ensures the command of the generated active power.
The suggested methodology is based on two different methods: direct torque control and
the fuzzy controller technique, getting the direct reactive power control. The effectiveness
and performances of this control method applied to the three-level WT-DFIG system are
tested and validated using MATLAB/Simulink.
The rest of the present work is organized as follows: in Section 2, the description of the
proposed wind energy system is detailed. Proposed controller design is given in Section 3.
Section 4 presents several simulation tests, carried out under different conditions to show
the effectiveness of the proposed systems. Finally, the main conclusions are presented in
Section 5.

2. Description of the Proposed Energy System

The global system is illustrated in Figure 1. It is based on a WT-DFIG system, directly
interconnected to the AC grid by the DFIG stator. On the other side, its rotor is attached
via an indirect converter from the grid. It consists of two power converters, which are
connected to DC bus. The first converter (I) is an inverter of three levels attached to the
DFIG rotor, and the second converter (II) is attached to the grid and controlled by another
method. The second converter controls its output to obtain a unit power factor operation,
sinusoidal voltages, and currents with a constant frequency.

2.1. Wind Turbine Working Zones Description

The wind turbine with variable speeds works in different operating zones as presented
in [18]. Zone I is a region where the wind speed is low, to begin the energy production
for economic reasons. Zone II is where the WT receives wind with a speed bigger than
cut-in speed, the system works with MPPT algorithm to extract maximum power with null
angle pitch. Zone III is described as when the wind speed exceeds the nominal operation
mode; the system works under pitch angle control to limit the produced output power to
its nominal value by varying angle pitch β. In zone IV, once the maximum wind speed is
reached, the DFIG rotor is disconnected from the turbine, therefore interrupting the power
generation [18].

2.2. Maximum Power Point Tracking Description

In zone II, the power characteristic curve of a wind turbine’s wind turbine is non-
linear, its parabolic shape allows the power coefficient to be at its maximum (Cp-max ) for an
optimal speed ratio (λopt ) and a null blade angle (β = 0◦ ) [18,19]. The speed of the DFIG is
enslaved to a reference from an MPPT algorithm for maximum tracking of wind power.

2.3. Pitch Angle Control Description

In zone III, the control of WT angle blades limits the delivered power to its nominal
value when the system works overspeed, while the extraction power maximization means
that the power produced is regulated according to its speed, in order to protect the power
converters and the electrical generator, so the PI regulator insures the generation of Tem-ref
to increase the blade angle (β), keeps the power at the nominal value, and decreases the
speed ratio (λ) and the power coefficient (Cp ) [18].
Sustainability 2021, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW 4 of 28
Sustainability 2021, 13, 9060 4 of 26

Figure 1. Global control scheme.

3. Description
2.1. Wind Turbineof Working
the Proposed
Zones Direct Reactive Power Control
Description
3.1. Direct Torque Control of the Three-Level
The wind turbine with variable speeds Inverter
worksDescription
in different operating zones as pre-
sentedReference [1] describes
in [18]. Zone the characteristic
I is a region of thespeed
where the wind wind is
turbine
low, toand the operating
begin the energyzones
pro-
from which the principles of MPPT and pitch control are taken.
duction for economic reasons. Zone II is where the WT receives wind with a speed bigger
than The DTC
cut-in of the
speed, theDFIG
systemis based
workson the MPPT
with controlalgorithm
of the rotor flux andmaximum
to extract the valuepower
of the
electromagnetic
with torque.
null angle pitch. TheIII
Zone rotor flux and the
is described electromagnetic
as when torque
the wind speed are estimated
exceeds from
the nominal
the rotor flux
operation components
mode; the system along
works theunder
α andpitch
β axes [1,18],
angle as given
control in Equations
to limit (1) and
the produced (2).
output
power to its nominal value by varying angle pitch β. In zone IV, once the maximum wind
speed is reached, the DFIG rotor is disconnected from the turbine, therefore interrupting
the power generation [18].
 Sustainability 2021, 13, 9060 5 of 26

 
Rt
 Φrα (t) = (vrα − Rr irα )dt

 


 
0



t
 Φ (t) = R v − R i
dt
 (1)
 rβ
 
 rβ r rβ

 q 0

 Φr =

Φrα 2 + Φrβ 2

Tem = p Φrα irβ − Φrβ irα

(2)
To analyze the voltage generated by the three-level inverter, each arm is mapped
by three switches that allow the inputs of the stator to connect to the source voltage
(represented by Vdc /2, 0 and −Vdc /2).
The transformation of voltages from the natural three phases into bi-phases (α-β) gives
voltage vectors associated to the stator flux position. The vector’s various state number is
Sustainability 2021, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW 6 of 28
19 since some of the 27 possibilities yield the same voltage vector. The presentation of all
voltage vectors of the three-level inverter in the bi-phasic frame is shown in Figure 2.

β
020 V16
V17 V22 220
120
221
121 010 110
V3 V9
V10 V2
V23 210 V21

021

V18 011 V4 V8 211 V15 α

022 122 V11 V1 100 200

201

V24 012 V26

V5 V13
001 V12 V6
212
V0 000
112 101
102 V7 111
V19 V20
V25 V14 222
002 202

Figure 2. Scheme
Figure of three-level
2. Scheme inverter
of three-level voltage
inverter vectors.
voltage vectors.

The space
The space of theofthree-level
the three-level inverter
inverter voltage
voltage vectorsvectors
mustmust be divided
be divided into into 12 sectors
12 sectors
instead
instead of 6 using
of 6 using the diagonal
the diagonal between between the long
the long vector vector
and and the adjacent
the adjacent medium.
medium. The The
appropriate
appropriate vectorvector is chosen
is chosen basedbased on theontorque
the torque
and theandflux
the errors
flux errors
fromfromall 19alldifferent
19 different
available
available vectors,
vectors, FigureFigure
2. 2.
The implementation
The implementation of DTC of DTC
to thetostudied
the studied
systemsystem is accomplished
is accomplished by selecting
by selecting the the
optimal vector and applying it to the three-level inverter. In order
optimal vector and applying it to the three-level inverter. In order to establish the control to establish the control
with the proposed topology, first, the estimated values of
with the proposed topology, first, the estimated values of torque and flux are compared torque and flux are compared
withwith the references,
the references, and then
and then the errors
the errors are digitized
are digitized out ofout
theofhysteresis
the hysteresis regulators,
regulators, five- five-
levellevel and three-level
and three-level comparators,
comparators, respectively,
respectively, whichwhich gives
gives the the variable
variable flux (Cflxflux
) and (Cthe
flx ) and
variable torque (Ctrq). The number of sector N is determined using the α-β rotor flux com- flux
the variable torque (C trq ). The number of sector N is determined using the α-β rotor
component.
ponent. If the
If the torque torque comparator
comparator output is output
high orisequal
high toortwo,
equal toinverter
the two, thestateinverter
is con- state is
sidered high, otherwise the state is considered low. For the torque regulation, the use of use
considered high, otherwise the state is considered low. For the torque regulation, the a of
five-level hysteresis comparator permits the ability to have both rotation directions of the of
a five-level hysteresis comparator permits the ability to have both rotation directions
rotorthe rotor
flux flux compared
compared to the statorto theflux.stator
The flux. The output
output of this of this regulator
regulator is represented
is represented by a by
a Boolean variable, C
Boolean variable, Ctrq, indicatingtrq , indicating if the torque needs be raised
if the torque needs be raised (Ctrq = 2 or trq (C = 2 or = 1),
= 1), reduced (C reduced
trq
(Ctrq
= −2 or = −or
= −1), 2 or = −constant
kept 1), or kept (Cconstant (Ctrq = 0). For rotor flux control, a three-level hysteresis
trq = 0). For rotor flux control, a three-level hysteresis com-
comparator could be used. Therefore, the rotor flux magnitude Φ is able to be controlled.
parator could be used. Therefore, the rotor flux magnitude Φr is able tor be controlled. The
The output of the flux regulator is also represented by a Boolean variable, Cflx , indicating if
output of the flux regulator is also represented by a Boolean variable, Cflx, indicating if the
flux needs be raised (Cflx = 1), reduced (Cflx = −1), or kept constant (Cflx = 0) to preserve it:
|Φr_ref − Φr| ≤ ∆Φr.
The switching table of the three-level inverter DTC is presented in Table 1. This table
is considered to select the appropriate vector using the information described above (nu-
Sustainability 2021, 13, 9060 6 of 26

the flux needs be raised (Cflx = 1), reduced (Cflx = −1), or kept constant (Cflx = 0) to preserve
it: |Φr_ref − Φr | ≤ ∆Φr .
The switching table of the three-level inverter DTC is presented in Table 1. This
table is considered to select the appropriate vector using the information described above
(numerical errors of flux Cflx and torque Ctrq , and the number of sector N). When the impact
of each voltage vector is analyzed, it may be observed that the vector impacts the torque
and flux with the modulus and vector direction changes. The null voltage vectors (V 0 ,
V 7 , and V 14 ) are selected alternately, in order to minimize the number of switches in the
inverter arms [23].

Table 1. The switching table of DTC three-level inverter DFIG.

N
Cflx Ctrq
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
+2 V21 V 16 V 22 V 17 V 23 V 18 V 24 V 19 V 25 V 20 V 26 V 15
+1 V 21 V2 V 22 V3 V 23 V4 V 24 V5 V 25 V6 V 26 V1
+1 0 Zero vector
−1 V 26 V1 V 21 V2 V 22 V3 V 23 V4 V 24 V5 V 25 V6
−2 V 26 V 15 V 21 V 16 V 22 V 17 V 23 V 18 V 24 V 19 V 25 V 20
+2 V 17 V 23 V 18 V 24 V 19 V 25 V 20 V 26 V 15 V 21 V 16 V 22
+1 V3 V 23 V4 V 24 V5 V 25 V6 V 26 V1 V 21 V2 V 22
−1 0 Zero vector
−1 V5 V 25 V6 V 26 V1 V 21 V2 V 22 V3 V 23 V4 V 24
−2 V 19 V 25 V 20 V 26 V 15 V 21 V 16 V 22 V 17 V 23 V 18 V 24
+2 V 22 V 17 V 23 V 18 V 24 V 19 V 25 V 20 V 26 V 15 V 21 V 16
+1 V 22 V3 V 23 V4 V 24 V5 V 25 V6 V 26 V1 V 21 V2
0 0 Zero vector
−1 V 25 V6 V 26 V1 V 21 V2 V 22 V3 V 23 V4 V 24 V5
−2 V 25 V 20 V 26 V 15 V 21 V 16 V 22 V 17 V 23 V 18 V 24 V 19

3.2. The Proposed Fuzzy PID Design and Local Reactive Power Compensation Description
The PID controller is designed using the fuzzy logic controller (FLC) based on Mam-
dani inference. There are two FLCs; the first is utilized for the generation of electromagnetic
torque reference in the speed loop. The second is for the reactive power loop to create the
rotor flux reference. Figure 3 shows the proposed fuzzy PID (F-PID) diagram.
In the first loop (the speed loop): X represents the DFIG mechanical speed (Ω) and Xref
represents its reference (Ωref ), while the output of this loop (Y) will be the electromagnetic
torque reference (Tem-ref ). In the second loop (the reactive power loop): X represents the
estimated reactive power (QAC ) and Xref represents its reference (QAC-ref ) (it is the demand
in reactive power of the AC grid), the output of this loop (Y) is the reference of the rotor
flux (Φr-ref ).
K1e , K1∆e , and KPI are scaling factors of the fuzzy PI, and K2e , K2∆e , and KPD are scaling
factors of the fuzzy PD. e and ∆e are the error and its derivative, respectively.
 create the rotor flux reference. Figure 3 shows the proposed fuzzy PID (F-PID) diagram.
In the first loop (the speed loop): X represents the DFIG mechanical speed (Ω) and
Xref represents its reference (Ωref), while the output of this loop (Y) will be the
electromagnetic torque reference (Tem-ref). In the second loop (the reactive power loop): X
represents the estimated reactive power (QAC) and Xref represents its reference (QAC-ref) (it
Sustainability 2021, 13, 9060 7 of 26
is the demand in reactive power of the AC grid), the output of this loop (Y) is the reference
of the rotor flux (Φr-ref).

Xref

+ e
K1e Y
+
Δe KPI 
d/dt K 1 Δe
X

Fuzzy PI

K2e

Δe KPD
d/dt K 2 Δe

Fuzzy PD

Figure 3. Scheme
Figure of theofproposed
3. Scheme fuzzyfuzzy
the proposed PID for
PIDthe
fortwo
the loops: speedspeed
two loops: and reactive power
and reactive loops.loops.
power

K1e, KIt1Δeis, and

Sustainability 2021, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW wellKknown that fixed
PI are scaling gains
factors are fuzzy
of the very sensitive
PI, and Kwhen
2e, K2Δethe system
, and is scaling
KPD are exposed to
8 of 28
parameter
factors uncertainties
of the fuzzy PD. e andand Δe external disturbances.
are the error Thus, to overcome
and its derivative, this problem and to
respectively.
compute an optimal controller, a fuzzy controller is introduced
It is well known that fixed gains are very sensitive when the system is exposed as a supervisor to compute
to
the damping gains of the PI and PD controllers that are
parameter uncertainties and external disturbances. Thus, to overcome this problem and considered the outputs of the
makes
fuzzy the proposed
supervisor to strategythe
overcome intelligent.
problem The selected
caused by fuzzyuncertainties
parameter control design
which process
makes
to compute an optimal controller, a fuzzy controller is introduced as a supervisor to
consists of: fuzzification
the proposed strategy of the inputs, formulation of thecontrol
rules, and finally defuzzification
compute the damping gainsintelligent.
of the PI and The PDselected fuzzy
controllers design
that are considered process consists of:
the outputs
of the output. Triangular and trapezoidal types symmetrically and uniformly ofdistributed
of thefuzzification
fuzzy supervisorof the inputs,
to overcomeformulation of the caused
the problem rules, and finally defuzzification
by parameter uncertainties the output.
which
are used to and
Triangular select the membership
trapezoidal functions. The
types symmetrically andproposed
uniformly F-PID is built are
distributed usingusedtwoto
different FLCs, the first is fuzzy PI (F-PI) and the other is fuzzy
select the membership functions. The proposed F-PID is built using two different FLCs, the PD (F-PD). Figure 4
presents the fuzzification membership functions (MFs) of inputs and
first is fuzzy PI (F-PI) and the other is fuzzy PD (F-PD). Figure 4 presents the fuzzification outputs of both
FLCs. Moreover,
membership the fuzzy
functions rules
(MFs) of are presented
inputs in Table
and outputs of 2both
for the firstMoreover,
FLCs. regulator the
F-PIfuzzy
and
Table 3 for
rules are the second
presented regulator
in Table F-PD.
2 for the firstFinally, theF-PI
regulator method of center
and Table of gravity
3 for the second (CoG) is
regulator
invested for the defuzzification of both FLCs as its the most
F-PD. Finally, the method of center of gravity (CoG) is invested for the defuzzification of commonly used
defuzzification
both FLCs as itsmethod,the mostalso commonly
commonly used referred to as themethod,
defuzzification centroidalsomethod. This method
commonly referred
determines the center
to as the centroid method.of area of method
This a fuzzy determines
set and returns the corresponding
the center crispset
of area of a fuzzy value
and
[2,19].
returns the corresponding crisp value [2,19].

NL NM NS ZR PS PM PL

0.5

0
-1 -0.8 -0.6 -0.4 -0.2 0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1

MFsofofF-PID’s
Figure4.4.MFs
Figure F-PID’sinputs
inputsand
andoutputs.
outputs.

The control of the DC/AC converter (II) imposes at the output a unit power factor
The control of the DC/AC converter (II) imposes at the output a unit power factor
with a constant frequency at 50 Hz, while the reactive power is provided by the DFIG.
with a constant frequency at 50 Hz, while the reactive power is provided by the DFIG.
Q AC = Q s + Q rAC

  Q AC = Q g + Q L − AC (3)
 Q
  L − AC = PL − AC .tg (ϕ L − AC )
where Qs depicts the DFIG’s stator reactive power, QL-AC depicts the reactive powers
exchanged with the AC load, QAC depicts AC grid reactive power, Qrg depicts the reactive
Sustainability 2021, 13, 9060 8 of 26


Q AC = Qs + QrAC
 
Q AC = Q g + Q L− AC (3)
Q L− AC = PL− AC ·tg(φL− AC )


where Qs depicts the DFIG’s stator reactive power, QL-AC depicts the reactive powers
exchanged with the AC load, QAC depicts AC grid reactive power, Qrg depicts the reactive
power transferred via the second converter (II) (DC/AC), and φL-AC depicts the local load
phase.

Table 2. Fuzzy rules of F-PI.

de/e NL NM NS ZR PS PM PL
NL NL NL NL NL NM NS ZR
NM NL NL NL NM NS ZR PS
NS NL NL NM NS ZR PS PM
ZR NL NM NS ZR PS PM PL
PS NM NS ZR PS PM PL PL
PM NS ZR PS PM PL PL PL
PL ZR PS PM PL PL PL PL

Table 3. Fuzzy rules of F-PD.

de/e NL NM NS ZR PS PM PL
NL NL NL NL NL PS PS PS
NM NL NL NL NM PS PS PS
NS NL NL NM NS PS PS PM
ZR NL NM NS ZR PS PM PL
PS NM NS NS PS PM PL PL
PM NS NS NS PS PM PL PL
PL NS NS NS PS PL PL PL

4. Simulation Results
The proposed topology (DPRC-3N) is tested and compared to another topology using
a two-level inverter (DPRC-2N) using Matlab/Simulink software. The Matlab/Simulink
model scheme of the studied system is presented in Appendix A. The system parameters
can be found in [1]. This study is subdivided into four parts, which are:
(1) Robustness and tracking tests of references for random profiles of the setpoints:
In this case, the objective is to analyze the performances of the proposed topology from
the point of view of robustness and tracking to the sudden and random variations in
references. This will be done while going through all the operating modes of the DFIG
in a random and continuous way; as a generator of active power, according to the
profile of the wind speed, passing from the sub-synchronous mode to the synchronous
and super-synchronous modes until the overspeed. Then as a local compensator of
the reactive power. This reflects a behavior close to the real operation of a power
plant. In this part two topologies are treated, while comparing the one proposed in
this work to another one based on a two-level inverter. The total hourly averages of
the wind speed data, up to 360 s (6 min), and the DFIG mechanical speed profiles
are presented in Figure 5. Figure 6 illustrates the β, λ, and Cp . When the power
reached its maximum value, the pitch angle control was activated. Therefore, the
DFIG speed is maintained at its maximum amount. Then, the electromagnetic torque
is maintained constant, but the reactive power followed the AC grid demand for both
Sustainability 2021, 13, 9060 9 of 26

topologies, as presented in Figure 7. However, in regions I and II, the generated active
power is maximized by the MPPT algorithm, as presented in Figure 8. This figure
shows that all the powers transferred between the WT-DFIG system and the AC grid
for both topologies, respectively. The rotor power (Pr ) switches its direction, marked
by its sign, according to the generator slip; this reflects two operating modes, sub-
and super-synchronous, through the synchronous mode, as presented in Figure 9a–c.
The control performance can be analyzed in the reference’s pursuit of the DFIG
mechanical speed, the electromagnetic torque, the reactive power, and the rotor flux
as illustrated respectively in Figures 7 and 10. The Ωmec and Tem vary according to
the wind speed profile to maximize the generated active power in zones I and II of
the WT characteristic. Meanwhile, in zone III, both Ωmec and Tem are kept constant to
limit the produced power. Therefore, the rotor flux magnitude is maintained at its
reference and changes depending on the involved reactive power compensation, as
shown in Figure 10.
The WT-DFIG operates in the optimal way where the possibility of using the DFIG
to control and manage the active–reactive powers is confirmed. Hence, these results
affirm the good performances and the robustness of the proposed DRPC control. In
addition, it can be clearly noticed that the torque ripples are decreased by about 65%
compared to the results given in references [1,18,19].
The two axes rotor flux waveforms (Φrα and Φrβ ) are presented Figure 11a–c, with
a sinusoidal behavior during sub- and super-synchronous modes. Nevertheless,
both rotor flux components (Φrα and Φrβ ) have a continuous behavior during the
synchronous mode. Additionally, the rotor phase currents have a direct waveform
during this particular mode, as shown in Figure 12c. The sinusoidal behavior of
the rotor phase currents can be noticed during the other modes: sub- and super-
synchronous as shown in Figure 12a,b. The random evolution of the rotor current
magnitude is related to the electromagnetic torque variations and its pulsation is
dependent on the slip variations.
The generated AC grid current keeps a sinusoidal of a constant frequency (50Hz)
form throughout all operating modes, along with a variable amplitude, as shown in
Figures 13–15.
The proposed control-enhanced DRPC applied to a DFIG three-level inverter, the
waveforms of the generated currents supplying the AC grid, are significantly im-
proved compared to that of the two-level inverter, as studied in [1,19], with a low
THD, as illustrated in Figure 16a–c. Furthermore, there was an almost constant fre-
Sustainability 2021, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW
quency of 50 Hz. This indicates the improved energy quality produced to supply 10 ofthe
28
AC grid.

Figure 5. Ω,
Figure 5. Ω, Ω
Ωref
ref, and υ
υ responses for both treated topologies (DRPC-3N and DRPC-2N).
Sustainability 2021, 13, 9060 10 of 26
Figure 5. Ω, Ωref, and υ responses for both treated topologies (DRPC-3N and DRPC-2N).
Figure 5. Ω, Ωref, and υ responses for both treated topologies (DRPC-3N and DRPC-2N).

Figure 6. β, λ, and Cp responses for both treated topologies (DRPC-3N and DRPC-2N).
Figure 6. β,
Figure β,λ, andCCppresponses
λ,and responsesfor
forboth
bothtreated
treatedtopologies
topologies(DRPC-3N
(DRPC-3Nand
andDRPC-2N).
DRPC-2N).

Sustainability 2021, 13,(a) In the

x FOR case
PEER of DRPC-3N
REVIEW (b) In the case of DRPC-2N 11 of 28
(a) In the case of DRPC-3N (b) In the case of DRPC-2N
Figure
Figure 7. 7.
QACQAC
,Q,Q AC-ref,, T
AC-ref Tem
em, and Tem-ref
em-refresponses.
responses.
Figure 7. QAC, QAC-ref, Tem, and Tem-ref responses.

(a) In the case of DRPC-3N (b) In the case of DRPC-2N

Figure8.8.PPr rand
Figure andPPss responses.
responses.
 (a) In
Sustainability 2021, 13, 9060 the case of DRPC-3N (b) In the case of DRPC-2N 11 of 26

Figure 8. Pr and Ps responses.

(b) Zoom during sub-synchronous and

(a) During all time (c) Zoom during synchronous mode
Sustainability 2021, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW super-synchronous modes 12 of 28
Sustainability 2021, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW 12 of 28
Figure9.9.The
Figure Thessresponse
responsefor
forboth
bothtreated
treatedtopologies
topologies (DRPC-3N
(DRPC-3N and DRPC-2N).

The WT-DFIG operates in the optimal way where the possibility of using the DFIG
to control and manage the active–reactive powers is confirmed. Hence, these results
affirm the good performances and the robustness of the proposed DRPC control. In
addition, it can be clearly noticed that the torque ripples are decreased by about 65%
compared to the results given in references [1,18,19].
The two axes rotor flux waveforms (Φrα and Φrβ) are presented Figure 11a–c, with a
sinusoidal behavior during sub- and super-synchronous modes. Nevertheless, both
rotor flux components (Φrα and Φrβ) have a continuous behavior during the
synchronous mode. Additionally, the rotor phase currents have a direct waveform
during this particular mode, as shown in Figure 12c. The sinusoidal behavior of the
rotor phase currents can be noticed during the other modes: sub- and super-
synchronous as shown in Figure 12a,b. The random evolution of the rotor current
magnitude is related to the electromagnetic torque variations and its pulsation is
dependent on the slip variations.
(a) In the
(a) In the case
case of
of DRPC-3N
DRPC-3N (b) In the case of DRPC-2N
The generated AC grid current keeps(b)a In the case
sinusoidal of
of DRPC-2N
a constant frequency (50Hz)
form throughout
Figure10.
Figure
Figure 10. Φ
all
10.ΦΦr,rr,ΦΦ
operating
Φ r-ref,,and
, and
r-ref
r-ref and ssmodes, along with a variable amplitude, as shown in
responses.
responses.
s responses.
Figures 13–15.

(b)
(b)Zoom
Zoomduring
duringsub-synchronous
sub-synchronousand
and
(a) During
(a) During all
all time
time (c)(c)
Zoom during
Zoom synchronous
during mode
synchronous mode
super-synchronous
super-synchronousmodes
modes
Figure
Figure 11.ΦΦ
Figure11.
11. Φrαrα andΦΦ
and
rα and
rβ responses
Φ rβresponses
rβ
for
responses DRPC-3N
for
for topology.
DRPC-3N
DRPC-3N topology.
topology.

The
The proposed
proposedcontrol-enhanced
control-enhancedDRPC
DRPCapplied
appliedtoto
a DFIG three-level
a DFIG inverter,
three-level thethe
inverter,
waveforms of the generated currents supplying the AC grid, are significantly
waveforms of the generated currents supplying the AC grid, are significantly
improved compared to that of the two-level inverter, as studied in [1,19], with a low
improved compared to that of the two-level inverter, as studied in [1,19], with a low
THD, as illustrated in Figure 16a–c. Furthermore, there was an almost constant
THD, as illustrated in Figure 16a–c. Furthermore, there was an almost constant
frequency of 50 Hz. This indicates the improved energy quality produced to supply
frequency of 50 Hz. This indicates the improved energy quality produced to supply
the AC grid.
the AC grid.
45 45 45
45 45 45
30 30 30
30 30 30
15 15 15
15
Ira (A)

15
ra (A)

15
ra (A)

0 0
(A)

0
I(A)

I(A)

0 0 0
a
 The proposed control-enhanced DRPC applied to a DFIG three-level inverter, the
waveforms of the generated currents supplying the AC grid, are significantly
improved compared to that of the two-level inverter, as studied in [1,19], with a low
Sustainability 2021, 13, 9060 THD, as illustrated in Figure 16a–c. Furthermore, there was an almost constant 12 of 26
frequency of 50 Hz. This indicates the improved energy quality produced to supply
the AC grid.

45 45 45
30 30 30
15 15 15

Ira (A)
Ira (A)

Ira (A)
0 0 0
-15 -15 -15

-30 -30 -30

-45 -45 -45

0 60 120 180 240 300 360 179.4 179.8 180.2 180.6 180.9 181.2 225 227 229 231
Time (s)
Time (s) Time (s)

(b) Zoom during sub-synchronous and

(a) During all time (c) Zoom during synchronous mode
Sustainability 2021, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW
super-synchronous modes 13 of 28
Sustainability 2021, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW 13 of 28
Figure12.
Figure 12.IIrara response for DRPC-3N topology.

750
750
IIsasa
(A)
Isa(A)

587
587
400
and 55**Isa

400
200
200
00
(V) and

-200
-200
VVsasa(V)

-400
-400
-587
-587
-750
Vsasa
V
-750
00 60
60 120
120 180 240
180 240 300
300 360
360
Time (s)
Time (s)
Figure13.
Figure
Figure 13.VV
13. Vsasasaand
andIIIsasasa responses
and responses for
responses for DRPC-3N
for DRPC-3N topology.
DRPC-3N topology.
topology.

750
750
(A)

587
Isa(A)

587
400
400
and 55**Isa

200
200 IIsasa
00
(V) and

-200
-200
VVsasa(V)

-400
-400
-587
-587 Vsasa
V
-750
-750228
228 228.02
228.02 228.04
228.04 228.06
228.06
Time (s)
Time (s)
Figure 14.
Figure 14. Zoom
Zoom of
of Vsa andand IIsasa during
during the
the synchronous
synchronous mode
mode for
for DRPC-3N
DRPC-3N topology.
topology.
Figure 14. Zoom of VVsasa and Isa topology.
50.75
50.75
ffAC-mes ffAC-ref
(Hz)

AC-mes AC-ref
f AC-ref (Hz)

50.5
50.5
50.25
and f AC-ref

50.25
50
50
f AC-meses and

49.75
49.75
49.5
f AC-m

49.5
49.25
49.25
00 30
30 60
60 90
90 120
120 150
150 180
180
Time (s)
Time (s)
 Vsa (V
-400
-587
Vsa
-750
228 228.02 228.04 228.06
Sustainability 2021, 13, 9060 13 of 26
Time (s)
Figure 14. Zoom of Vsa and Isa during the synchronous mode for DRPC-3N topology.

50.75
fAC-mes fAC-ref

f AC-m es and f AC-ref (Hz)

50.5

50.25

50

49.75

49.5

49.25
0 30 60 90 120 150 180
Sustainability 2021, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW Time (s) 14 of 28

Figure15.
Figure 15.Zoom
Zoomof
ofthe
thefrequency
frequencycurrent
currentsupplied
suppliedtotothe
theAC
ACgrid
gridand
andits
itsreference.
reference.

DRPC-3N topology DRPC-2N topology

(a) During sub-synchronous mode

(b) During synchronous mode

Figure 16. Cont.

Sustainability 2021, 13, 9060 14 of 26

(b) During synchronous mode

(c) During super-synchronous mode

Figure16.
Figure 16.Waveforms
Waveforms
of of
thethe generated
generated phase
phase current
current (stator(stator current)
current) and its harmonic
and its harmonic spectrum spectrum for both
for both treated treated
topologies,
topologies, DRPC-3N
DRPC-3N and DRPC-2N.and DRPC-2N.

(2) Tests
(2) Testsof
ofreference
referencetracking
trackingforforprofiles
profiles in
in steps
steps of
of the
the setpoints:
setpoints:
The objective in this part is to analyze the performances of reference tracking of the
proposed topology (DPRC-3N), compared to DRPC-2N. The choice of the two profiles,
wind speed and reactive power to be compensated locally, is based on:
• Going through all DFIG operating modes in a consecutive and continuous man-
ner, starting from the sub-synchronous mode to the synchronous and then the
super-synchronous mode, as illustrated in Figures 17–19.
• Ensuring full operation of a local reactive power compensator. By switching
from operating in unit power factor mode (QAC = 0 Var), then in excess reactive
power consumption mode (QAC > 0 Var), to deficit reactive power generation
mode in the grid connection bar set, as illustrated in Figure 20.
The references tracking is very remarkable on the obtained results, as illustrated
in Figures 19–22, respectively, the DFIG mechanical speed, the reactive power, the
electromagnetic torque and the rotor flux, for both topologies (DPRC-3N and DPRC-
2N). The DFIG speed and Tem vary with the wind speed profile to maximize the
active power generated using the MPPT algorithm, as shown in Figures 23 and 24.
Therefore, the rotor flux amplitude is kept at its reference and varies according to the
local compensation of the reactive power involved.
The waveforms of the rotor flux components in the α-β frame (Φrα and Φrβ ) with that
of currents ira and ira , zoomed during all DFIG operation modes, confirm the results
shown in Figures 11–16, as presented in Figures 25–27.
The proposed control-enhanced DRPC applied to a DFIG three-level inverter (DRPC-
3N), the waveforms of the generated currents supplying the AC grid, are significantly
improved compared to that of the two-level inverter (DRPC-2N), with a low THD,
as illustrated in Figures 15 and 16a–c. Additionally, there was an almost constant
frequency of 50 Hz. This indicates the improved power quality produced to supply
the AC grid.
 manner, starting from the sub-synchronous mode to the synchronous and then
the super-synchronous mode, as illustrated in Figures 17–19.
• Ensuring full operation of a local reactive power compensator. By switching
from operating in unit power factor mode (QAC AC = 0 Var), then in excess reactive
Sustainability 2021, 13, 9060 15 of 26
power consumption mode (QAC AC > 0 Var), to deficit reactive power generation

mode in the grid connection bar set, as illustrated in Figure 20.

Figure17.
Figure 17. Wind
Windspeed
speedprofile
profilefor
forboth
bothtreated
treatedtopologies
topologies(DRPC-3N
(DRPC-3Nand
andDRPC-2N).
DRPC-2N).

Sustainability 2021, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW 16 of 28

18. The
Figure18.
Figure The ss responses
responsesfor
forboth
bothtreated
treatedtopologies
topologies(DRPC-3N
(DRPC-3Nand
andDRPC-2N).
DRPC-2N).

Figure19.
Figure 19.ΩΩand
andΩΩrefrefresponses
responsesfor
forboth
bothtreated
treatedtopologies
topologies(DRPC-3N
(DRPC-3Nand
andDRPC-2N).
DRPC-2N).
Sustainability 2021, 13, 9060 16 of 26

Figure 19. Ω and Ωref responses for both treated topologies (DRPC-3N and DRPC-2N).

Sustainability 2021, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW 17 of 28

Sustainability 2021, 13, (a) In PEER
x FOR the case of DRPC-3N
REVIEW (b) In the case of DRPC-2N 17 of 28

Figure
Figure 20.20.
QACQACand
andQQ AC-ref responses.
AC-ref

The references tracking is very remarkable on the obtained results, as illustrated in

Figures 19–22, respectively, the DFIG mechanical speed, the reactive power, the
electromagnetic torque and the rotor flux, for both topologies (DPRC-3N and DPRC-
2N). The DFIG speed and Tem vary with the wind speed profile to maximize the active
power generated using the MPPT algorithm, as shown in Figures 23 and 24.
Therefore, the rotor flux amplitude is kept at its reference and varies according to the
local compensation of the reactive power involved.
The waveforms of the rotor flux components in the α-β frame (Φrα and Φrβ) with that
of currents ira and ira, zoomed during all DFIG operation modes, confirm the results
shown in Figures 11–16, as presented in Figures 25–27.
The proposed control-enhanced DRPC applied to a DFIG three-level inverter (DRPC-
3N), the waveforms of the generated currents supplying the AC grid, are significantly
(a) In the case of improved
DRPC-3N compared to that of the two-level (b) Ininverter
the case(DRPC-2N),
of DRPC-2Nwith a low THD, as
(a) In the case of DRPC-3N (b) In the case there
illustrated in Figures 15 and 16a–c. Additionally, of DRPC-2N
was an almost constant
Figure 21. Tem and Tem-ref responses.
frequency of 50
Figure
Figure
Hz.
21.
21. TemThis
Tem andTindicates
and Tem-ref the improved power quality produced to supply
em-ref responses.
responses.
the AC grid.

(a) In the case of DRPC-3N (b) In the case of DRPC-2N

(a) In the case of DRPC-3N (b) In the case of DRPC-2N
Figure22.
Figure 22.Φr
Φrand
andΦr-ref
Φr-refresponses.
responses.
Figure 22. Φr and Φr-ref responses.
Sustainability 2021, 13, 9060
(a) In the case of DRPC-3N (b) In the case of DRPC-2N 17 of 26

Figure 22. Φr and Φr-ref responses.

Sustainability 2021, 13,(a) In the

x FOR case
PEER of DRPC-3N
REVIEW (b) In the case of DRPC-2N 18 of 28

Sustainability 2021, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW

Figure23.
Figure 23.Generated
Generated active
active power
power responses. 18 of 28

(a) In the case of DRPC-3N (b) In the case of DRPC-2N

(a) In the case of DRPC-3N (b) In the case of DRPC-2N
Figure
Figure
Figure 24.
24.24. Rotor
Rotor
Rotor active
active
active power
power
power responses.
responses.
responses.

Figure 25.ΦΦrα
Figure25. and
rα and Φrβ
Φrβ responses,
responses, withwith zooms
zooms during
during different
different operating
operating modes,
modes, for for DRPC-3N.
DRPC-3N.

Figure 25. Φrα and Φrβ responses, with zooms during different operating modes, for DRPC-3N.
Sustainability 2021, 13, 9060 18 of 26
Sustainability
Sustainability 2021,
2021, 13,
13, xx FOR
FOR PEER
PEER REVIEW
REVIEW 19
19 of
of 28
28

Figure
Figure 26.
26. IIIra
Figure26. ra response, with zooms during different
ra response, with zooms during different
operating
different operating modes,
operating modes, for
modes, for DRPC-3N.
for DRPC-3N.
DRPC-3N.

Figure 27.
27. IIIsa
Figure27. sa response, with zooms during different operating modes, for DRPC-3N.
response, with
sa response, with zooms
zooms during
during different
different operating
operating modes,
modes, for
for DRPC-3N.
DRPC-3N.
Figure

(3)
(3) Robustness
(3) Robustness tests tests against
against parametric variations:
variations:
parametric variations:
In this
In this part,
thispart,
part,thethe effect
theeffect
effect of
of of temperature
temperature
temperature increase
increase
increase during
during the
the operation
the operation
during of theof
operation the
DFIG
of the isDFIG
taken
DFIG is
is
taken
into into
takenaccount. account. This
This causes
into account. causes an
an increase
This causes increase
an increase in thein in the generator
generator winding
the generator winding resistances
resistances
winding (Rs and
resistances (R
(Rss
and
R Rrr).
R ). Then,
r ). Then,
and the
the effect
the effect
Then, of
of saturation
of saturation
effect saturation of the of the
the DFIG
ofDFIG magnetic
magnetic
DFIG magnetic circuit
circuit on the
circuit on the
the behavior
onbehavior of the
behavior of
of
the
proposed proposed
the proposed DRPC-3N DRPC-3N
DRPC-3N is
is analyzed.analyzed. This
This saturation
is analyzed. saturation decreases
decreasesdecreases
This saturation the mutualthe the mutual
self-inductance
mutual self- self-
inductance
(M) between(M)
inductance (M)thebetween
DFIG stator
between the DFIG
the and
DFIG stator
rotor,
stator whichand rotor,
andcauses which
rotor, the
whichcycliccauses the
the cyclic
cyclic self-
self-inductances
causes of
self-
inductances
each winding of toeach winding
decrease (L
inductances of each windings to decrease to
and decrease
L r ). (L s and Lr).
(Ls and Lr).
This
Thisis
This ismade
is madein
made intwo
in twoseparate
two separatetests:
separate tests:
tests:
••• The
The first one
one is
first one is to
is to assume
to assume
assume that that after
that after
after thethe operation
the operation
operation of of the
of the wind
the wind generator,
wind generator,
generator, the the
the
heating
heating of of the
of the stator
the stator and
stator and rotor
and rotor windings
rotor windings
windingsincreasesincreases
increasesthe the resistances
theresistances
resistances(R (R and
andRR
(Rs ssand Rrr)r))by
by
by
100%
100% of
100% of their
of their nominal
their nominal values,
nominal values,
values, as as presented
as presented
presented in in Figure
inFigure
Figure28a. 28a.
28a.
•• The
The second
second is
second is to
is to consider
to consider
consider thatthat the
that the saturation
the saturation
saturation of of the
of the magnetic
the magnetic circuit
magneticcircuit
circuitof of
ofthethe DFIG
theDFIG
DFIG
causes
causes a decrease
causes a decrease
decrease in in the
in the value
the value
value of of the
of the natural
the natural mutual
natural mutual between
mutual between
betweenthe the stator
thestator
statorand and rotor
androtor
rotor
windings
windings
windings (M) (M)
(M)ofofof 20%.
20%.
20%. This
This
This action
action
action directly
directly decreases
decreases
directly the
the cyclic
decreases cyclic
the inductancesinductances
cyclic inductancesvalues
values
of eachof
values each
each winding
winding
of (Ls and(L
winding Lrss),and
(L LLrr),
), as
as presented
and as presented
in Figure
presented in
in Figure
28b. 28b.
Figure 28b.
Setpoint profiles have been selected in a way to test the different DFIG operat-
ing modes, while accommodating all speed modes (super-synchronous and sub-
synchronous modes passing through the synchronous mode) as well as the three
compensation regimes (QAC > 0, QAC < 0, and QAC = 0), as shown in Figures 29–33.
From the results obtained for both topologies (DPRC-3N and DRPC-2N), it can
be clearly seen that both techniques show a very good robustness with respect to
Sustainability 2021, 13, 9060 19 of 26

the parametric variations, but the ripples band is always small in the case of the
proposed DRPC-3N compared to DRPC-2N. Knowing that, the major handicap of
DTC is the sensitivity to the resistance which intervenes in the estimation of the
flux. In this case, the combination of DTC and fuzzy logic reinforces this robustness
as shown in the different obtained results, as shown in Figures 30–33, particularly
Figure 32a. In this figure which represents the rotor flux, whatever the evolution
of the rotor resistance (Rr ), which intervenes in the estimation of this flux, the latter
always remains insensitive to these variations. This confirms that the proposed DRPC,
Sustainability 2021, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW
whether DRPC-2N or DRPC-3N, is very robust technique to machine parametric 20 of 28
variations.

(a) Variation evolutions in Rs and Rr of 100%. (b) Variation evolutions in M, Ls, and Lr of 20%.
Figure 28. Parametric variations for the proposed method.

Setpoint profiles have been selected in a way to test the different DFIG operating
modes, while accommodating all speed modes (super-synchronous and sub-
synchronous modes passing through the synchronous mode) as well as the three
compensation regimes (QAC > 0, QAC < 0, and QAC = 0), as shown in Figures 29–33.
From the results obtained for both topologies (DPRC-3N and DRPC-2N), it can be
clearly seen that both techniques show a very good robustness with respect to the
parametric variations, but the ripples band is always small in the case of the proposed
DRPC-3N compared to DRPC-2N. Knowing that, the major handicap of DTC is the
sensitivity to the resistance which intervenes in the estimation of the flux. In this case,
the combination of DTC and fuzzy logic reinforces this robustness as shown in the
different obtained results, as shown in Figures 30–33, particularly Figure 32a. In this
figure which represents the rotor flux, whatever the evolution of the rotor resistance
(Rr), which intervenes in the estimation of this flux, the latter always remains
(a) Variation evolutions ininsensitive
Rs and Rr ofto 100%. (b) Variation
these variations. evolutions
This confirms in M,
that the Ls, and Lr
proposed of 20%.
DRPC, whether
DRPC-2N
Figure
Figure 28. or DRPC-3N,
28.Parametric
Parametric is very
variations
variations robust
forthe
for technique
theproposed
proposed to machine parametric variations.
method.
method.

Setpoint profiles have been selected in a way to test the different DFIG operating
modes, while accommodating all speed modes (super-synchronous and sub-
synchronous modes passing through the synchronous mode) as well as the three
compensation regimes (QAC > 0, QAC < 0, and QAC = 0), as shown in Figures 29–33.
From the results obtained for both topologies (DPRC-3N and DRPC-2N), it can be
clearly seen that both techniques show a very good robustness with respect to the
parametric variations, but the ripples band is always small in the case of the proposed
DRPC-3N compared to DRPC-2N. Knowing that, the major handicap of DTC is the
sensitivity to the resistance which intervenes in the estimation of the flux. In this case,
the combination of DTC and fuzzy logic reinforces this robustness as shown in the
different obtained results, as shown in Figures 30–33, particularly Figure 32a. In this
figure which represents the rotor flux, whatever the evolution of the rotor resistance
(Rr), which intervenes in the estimation of this flux, the latter always remains
(a) Wind speedinsensitive
profil (b) Ω andthat
to these variations. This confirms Ωrefthe
responses
proposed DRPC, whether
Figure 29.
Figure 29. Profils
Profils for
for both
both testsDRPC-2N
tests performed or DRPC-3N,
performed (warm-up
(warm-up and is very robust
and saturation)
saturation) for technique
for both to
both methods (DRPC-3Nparametric
machine
methods (DRPC-3N variations.
andDRPC-2N).
and DRPC-2N).
Sustainability 2021,13,
Sustainability2021, 13,9060
x FOR PEER REVIEW 20 of
21 of 26
28

Variation (in Rs and Rr) of 100%.

Variation (in M, Ls, and Lr) of 20%.

(a) In the case of DRPC-3N (b) In the case of DRPC-2N
Figure
Figure 30.30.QQ andQQAC-ref
ACACand AC-ref responses
responses for
for parametric
parametric variations.

(4)
(4) Summary
Summary of of the
the obtained
obtained results
results with
with comparison:
comparison:
A
A comparative analysis between DRPC-2N and
comparative analysis between DRPC-2N and the
the improved
improvedDRPC DRPC(DRPC-3N)
(DRPC-3N)of of
ripples of: electromagnetic torque, rotor flux, and the generated and local reactive
ripples of: electromagnetic torque, rotor flux, and the generated and local reactive
power compensation with the generated current THD and its frequency during
power compensation with the generated current THD and its frequency during
different DFIG operation modes is summarized in Tables 4 and 5. All ripples caused
different DFIG operation modes is summarized in Tables 4 and 5. All ripples caused
by both strategies are illustrated in Figures 34–38.
by both strategies are illustrated in Figures 34–38.
As expected, their ripples are low in the case of DRPC-3N while they are important in
As expected, their ripples are low in the case of DRPC-3N while they are important
the DRPC-2N topology. Indeed, the proposed DRPC-3N allows for the reduction of
in the DRPC-2N topology. Indeed, the proposed DRPC-3N allows for the reduction
the ripples of the electromagnetic torque, generated active power, and the rotor flux
of the ripples of the electromagnetic torque, generated active power, and the rotor
magnitude by about 60.7%, 15.25%, and 30.3%, respectively. Furthermore, those of
flux magnitude by about 60.7%, 15.25%, and 30.3%, respectively. Furthermore, those
the compensation reactive power are minimized by about 20.1%.
of the compensation reactive power are minimized by about 20.1%.
In addition, the ripple of the grid-supplied phase current frequency in both control
In addition, the ripple of the grid-supplied phase current frequency in both control
strategies is illustrated in Figure 35, and the ripples of this frequency is summarized
strategies
in Table 4. is
It illustrated in Figure
can be noticed 35, and
that, when the the
using ripples of this topology,
DRPC-3N frequencytheis frequency
summarized is
almost constant with a mean value of 50.00 Hz with an error of 1.50%, whichfrequency
in Table 4. It can be noticed that, when using the DRPC-3N topology, the is better
is almost
than constant in
that obtained with
the acase
mean value of 50.00
of DRPC-2N. Hz with
Therefore, thean
ACerror
grid of 1.50%, which
generated currentis
better than that obtained in the case of DRPC-2N. Therefore,
frequency ripples reduction in DRPC-3N compared to DRPC-2N is about 50.80%. the AC grid generated
current frequency
Furthermore, ripples
with the reduction
proposed controlintopology
DRPC-3N comparedthe
(DRPC-3N), to waveforms
DRPC-2N is about
supply-
50.80%.
ing the AC grid are significantly improved compared to that of DRPC-2N with a total
harmonic distortion (THD) largely below 1%, (above this value should be reported as
mentioned by IEC standards) as presented in Figure 16a–c and Table 5. This confirms
a better quality of generated power that supplied the AC grid. Moreover, the total
losses decrease, leading to this approach having the best efficiency.
Sustainability 2021, 13, 9060 21 of 26

Moreover, to better power quality performance, the proposed DRPC-3N technique is

very
Sustainability 2021, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW robust to parametric variations in the machine as well as to sudden and random
22 of 28
variations in reference quantity profiles.

Variation (in Rs and Rr) of 100%.

Variation (in M, Ls, and Lr) of 20%.

(a) In the case of DRPC-3N (b) In the case of DRPC-2N
Figure31.
Figure 31.TT responsesfor
ememresponses forparametric
parametricvariations.
variations.

Table 4. Comparative analysis of ripples

Table of electromagnetic
4. Comparative analysistorque, generated
of ripples active power,torque,
of electromagnetic rotor flux, and ACactive
generated grid reactive
power, rotor
flux, andcurrent
power compensation with generated AC grid reactiveerror,
frequency power compensation
of the with generated
proposed DRPC-3N and thecurrent
DRPC-2N.frequency error, of the
proposed DRPC-3N and the DRPC-2N.
Ripples Mitigation: DRPC-3N Compared to DRPC-2N
Ripples Mitigation: DRPC-3N Compared to DRPC-2N
Tem Φr QAC Ps Generated Current Frequency
Tem Φr QAC Ps Generated Current Frequency
∆f 
For DRPC − 2N : f s = (49.70 ± 1.50)Hz ; f s s = Δ3.02% fs  
: f s = (49.70 ± 1.50)Hz ; f = 3.02%

For
with a static DRPC-2N
error ζ = −0.30Hz ⇒
60.7%. 30.3%. 20.1%. 15.25% s
∆ fs  


For DRPC − 3Nwith static error ζ = - 0.30Hzf s
: fs a= ( 50.00 ± 0.75 ) Hz; = 1.50%
60.7%. 30.3%. 20.1%. 15.25% 50.80% 
Δf s
For DRPC-3N : f s = (50.00 ± 0.75)Hz; = 1.50% 
fs 
50.80%
Table 5. Comparative analysis of generated current THD, between the proposed DRPC-3N and the DRPC-2N.

DFIG Operations Modes Sub-Synchronous Synchronous Super-Synchronous

DRPC-2N 11.73% 05.80% 05.61%
Percentage of generated current THD
DRPC-3N 00.15% 00.09% 0.24%
 Sustainability 2021, 13, 9060 22 of 26
Sustainability 2021, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW 23 of 28

Variation (in Rs and Rr) of 100%.

Variation (in M, Ls, and Lr) of 20%.

Sustainability 2021, 13,(a) In the
x FOR PEERcase of DRPC-3N
REVIEW (b) In the case of DRPC-2N 24 of 28

Figure
Figure32.
32.ΦΦr rresponses
responsesfor
forparametric
parametricvariations.
variations.

Furthermore, with the proposed control topology (DRPC-3N), the waveforms

supplying the AC grid are significantly improved compared to that of DRPC-2N with
a total harmonic distortion (THD) largely below 1%, (above this value should be
reported as mentioned by IEC standards) as presented in Figure 16a–c and Table 5.
This confirms a better quality of generated power that supplied the AC grid.
Moreover, the total losses decrease, leading to this approach having the best
efficiency.
Moreover, to better power quality performance, the proposed DRPC-3N technique is
very robust to parametric variations in the machine as well as to sudden and random
variations in reference quantity profiles.

Table 5. Comparative analysis of generated current THD, between the proposed DRPC-3N and the
DRPC-2N.
(a) Variation evolutions in Rs and Rr of 100%. (b) Variation evolutions in M, Ls, and Lr of 20%.
Super-
DFIG Operations Modes Sub-Synchronous Synchronous
Figure33.
Figure 33.PPr rand
andPPss responses
responses under
under parametric
parametricvariation
variationfor
forthe
theproposed
proposedmethod (DRPC-3N).Synchronous
method(DRPC-3N).
Percentage of DRPC-2N 11.73% 05.80% 05.61%
generated current
DRPC-3N 00.15% 00.09% 0.24%
THD
 (a) Variation
(a) 2021,
Sustainability 13, 9060evolutions
Variation evolutions in
in Rs
Rs and
and Rr
Rr of
of 100%.
100%. (b)
(b) Variation
Variation evolutions
evolutions in
in M,
M, Ls,
Ls, and
and Lr
Lr of
of 20%.
20%. 23 of 26
Figure
Figure 33.
33. PPrr and
and PPss responses
responses under
under parametric
parametric variation
variation for
for the
the proposed
proposed method
method (DRPC-3N).
(DRPC-3N).

Figure 34.
34. Comparison
Figure34.
Figure of
Comparison of the
ofthe electromagnetic
theelectromagnetic torque
electromagnetictorque ripples.
torqueripples.
ripples.

Sustainability 2021, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW 25 of 28

Figure
Figure 35.
35. Comparison
Figure35. of
Comparison of the
ofthe rotor
therotor flux
rotorflux ripples.
fluxripples.
ripples.

Figure 36.Comparison
Figure36. Comparisonof
ofthe
thelocally
locallycompensated
compensatedreactive
reactivepower
powerripples.
ripples.
Sustainability 2021, 13, 9060 24 of 26

Figure 36. Comparison of the locally compensated reactive power ripples.

Figure37.
Figure 37.Comparison
Comparisonof
ofthe
thegenerated
generatedactive
activepower
powerripples.
ripples.

Figure38.
Figure 38.Comparison
Comparisonof
ofthe
thecurrent
currentfrequency
frequencythat
thatsupplied
suppliedthe
theAC
ACgrid.
grid.

5. Conclusions
The performances and robustness of DRPC have been presented in this paper. This
technique is applied a three-level inverter to control the active and reactive powers of
DFIG. Most benefits of this generator are linked with the power converter, those being: a
management system of active energy and a reactive power local compensator. In addition,
the quality and performances of the proposed method are tested in a way to reproduce
certain restrictions that reflect the actual wind operation. Thus, the random behavior of
the wind speed allowed the utilization of the machine in its different operation modes.
Attention is focused on the dynamic performance of DRPC. In addition, to highlight
the proposed technique (DRPC-3N), a comparative study with DRPC-2N is presented.
Robustness tests against parametric variations of the machine, taking into account the
effect of the heating of the windings as well as the saturation of the magnetic circuit, were
performed. This is in addition to the tests for the sudden and random variations in the
profiles of reference quantities. The effectiveness and performance of the proposed scheme
control is demonstrated by simulation tests under Matlab/Simulink.
The obtained results clearly show the good performances of the proposed system con-
trol in the different operation modes, in terms of pursuit of the references or the robustness.
Thus, the significant performances of the DFIG remain under wind randomness variations.
This allows us to confirm the robustness behavior and the satisfactory performances of the
proposed technique. Additionally, they justify the utility of the DFIG in the possibility of
management and control of the reactive and active powers. This leads to the use of the
DFIG as a reactive power local compensator.
Sustainability 2021, 13, 9060 25 of 26

The simulation results show that the application of the proposed control technique
significantly enhances conversion system performance, which amounts to minimizing the
current’s THD and the torque oscillations. These results indicate that the combination of
the advantages of DTC combined with the FLC gives a better answer to the requirements
of the grid.
The overall control, based on DRPC-3N, has significantly improved the performances
of the overall system under wind randomness variation. This allows for the confirmation
of the robustness behavior and the satisfactory performances of the proposed control. In
addition to the contribution of this control technique, the three-level inverter used in the
system has also participated in improving the power quality injected into the AC grid.

Author Contributions: Conceptualization, Y.B. and Y.S.; methodology, Y.B.; software, Y.S. and M.S.C.;
validation, Y.B., N.U. and M.S.C.; formal analysis, N.U.; investigation, M.B.; resources, Y.B.; data
curation, Y.S.; writing—original draft preparation, Y.B. and K.T.; writing—review and editing, N.U.,
T.T. and Y.B.; visualization, Y.B.; supervision, S.T.; project administration, S.T.; funding acquisition,
N.U. and K.T. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.
Funding: This work was supported by Taif University Researchers Supporting Project number
(TURSP-2020/144), Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia. This research was also supported by grant 235
number ENV6402012N from Prince of Songkla University.
Data Availability Statement: Not applicable.
Acknowledgments: The authors acknowledge the funding support provided by Taif University
Researchers Supporting Project number (TURSP-2020/144), Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia. This
research was also supported by grant 235 number ENV6402012N from Prince of Songkla University.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.
Sustainability 2021, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW 27 of 28
Appendix A

Figure A1.
Figure A1. The
The Matlab/Simulink
Matlab/Simulink Model
Model Scheme
Scheme of
of the
the Studied
Studied System.
System.

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