Analysis and Optimized Design of a Novel Compact Orthogonal Controllable Reactor

Orthogonal controllable reactors (OCRs) have the advantages of low distortion and linear inductance regulation. However, traditional OCRs suffer from two vital problems, namely, their small inductance regulation range and large space occupation. To solve these issues, a new compact OCR is proposed in this study. First, the magnetic circuit of the reactor is established through theoretical analysis. Second, the simulation model is established and the inductance regulation characteristics of the reactor are obtained. Third, the key parameters are optimized for better performance based on Pareto optimality and a genetic algorithm. Finally, based on the optimized parameters, a new prototype of the OCR is developed and experimental work is carried out to verify the analysis. The results show that, compared with the traditional model, with the same material consumption, the space occupation of the new topology is reduced by 53.7% and the inductance regulation range is increased by 69%. Experimental results also show that increasing the area of the orthogonal region can significantly increase the inductance regulation range of the reactor. Based on the OCR, the filter with a variable resonance frequency can be formed, which is of significant application value in situations where the harmonic frequency is constantly changing.