Adjustable speed drives - future challenges and applications

The main trends within adjustable drives in industrial and appliance applications for the next decade are discussed based on the newest developments seen on the market and a few historical trends. Different drive configurations are presented and the general demands to adjustable speed drives are specified. Further on power architectures and motor types are discussed in a short term and long-term view. Possible drivers of the future development are identified, and the concept of an 'electronic motor' is discussed. A number of applications are presented where variable speed is attractive