2.1. Induction Motor Faults Detection
An induction motor is an electromechanical device that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy by creating an electromagnetic field in a revolving element called the rotor. The rotor is mechanically linked to a load by a shaft and undergoes rotational motion as a result of the electromagnetic field’s interaction with the stator. The stator, being the immobile component of the motor, encompasses windings responsible for generating the electromagnetic field. Induction motors systems are extensively utilized in diverse industry sectors owing to their strong resilience, simplicity, and effectiveness.
However, as illustrated in
Figure 1, induction motors (IMs) are vulnerable to various faults that can significantly affect their overall performance, reliability, and safety. The two primary types of faults found in induction motors (IMs) are mechanical faults, which account for 45–55% of the faults, and electrical faults, which make up 35–40% of the faults [
21].
The identification and diagnosis of faults is a crucial component of maintenance practices and has garnered significant attention in academic study across diverse fields. Throughout the years, a wide array of methodologies has been developed to identify and diagnose fault in induction motors. These techniques are commonly classified into four distinct classes, namely frequency domain, time domain, time–frequency domain, and AI-based methods. However, for the sake of simplicity, it is possible to integrate the first three methods under the category of fault frequency-based approaches. Hence, these techniques can be categorized into two main groups: artificial intelligence-based fault diagnosis (AI-FD) and fault frequency-based techniques (FF-FD) [
11,
22]. The integration of multiple methodologies in research has resulted in the development of a novel category referred to as hybrid fault detection and diagnostic methods. This hybrid methodology capitalizes on the respective advantages of AI-FD and FF-FD techniques to augment the precision and dependability of fault identification in induction motors.
Fault frequency-based (FF-based) approaches, which are commonly referred to as classical methods, cover a diverse array of methodologies for processing sensor signals. The aforementioned methodologies employ a range of indications, including but not limited to vibration, current, acoustic, sound, torque, speed, and thermal imaging, to identify and assess malfunctions in induction motors. Vibration-based and current-based approaches are the prevailing techniques employed for FDD in electric motors and generators. These methods are used due to their ability to accurately depict the dynamic behavior of the devices [
23]. Nevertheless, the task of detecting faults by analyzing these signals is somewhat challenging due to the presence of high noise interference [
24]. To address the problem of noise interference in fault detection, several sophisticated signal processing systems have been created. The methodologies encompassed in this category consist of sparse decomposition (SD), stochastic resonance, local mean decomposition, and ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD). These technologies improve the precision of defect detection by efficiently eliminating signal noise. Furthermore, the successful execution of these methods necessitates the utilization of specific equipment and experience [
22].
FDD are important aspects of maintenance that have drawn a lot of scholarly interest. Different approaches have been developed to detect faults in induction motors; these techniques are generally categorized into four categories: frequency domain, time domain, time–frequency domain, and AI-based methods. The first three may be combined into two primary categories, artificial intelligence-based fault diagnosis (AI-FD) and fault frequency-based techniques (FF-FD), for simplicity’s sake. These are based on fault frequency [
11,
22]. The emergence of hybrid approaches that combine FF-FD and AI-FD has improved the accuracy and reliability of fault diagnosis.
In order to identify faults in induction motors, fault frequency-based (FF-based) approaches, sometimes referred to as classical techniques, examine sensor data such as vibration, current, sound, torque, speed, and thermal imaging. Although noise interference is a barrier, approaches based on vibration and current are particularly successful in capturing the dynamic behavior of motors [
23]. Advanced signal processing methods such as local mean decomposition, stochastic resonance, sparse decomposition (SD), and ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD) have been developed to counteract noise. By lowering signal noise, these techniques increase the accuracy of defect identification; yet, they call for certain tools and knowledge [
22].
The use of AI approaches for fault detection and identification in induction motors has gained traction due to the shortcomings of conventional methods. AI-based techniques are becoming more and more common in the detection of motor faults because they provide a number of benefits, including enhanced fault prediction through historical data analysis and flexibility to different operating situations [
25].
The process of utilizing AI to analyze massive datasets, extract characteristics, and categorize defects using machine learning (ML) algorithms is known as intelligent fault diagnosis (IFD), or AI-based fault detection. Neural networks (NN), K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Support Vector machines (SVM), and the Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) are some of the modern machine learning techniques used in fault detection and diagnosis (FDD) [
17,
21]. Fault identification and diagnosis are further improved by AI approaches such as Bayesian classifiers, Fuzzy Logic (FL), Genetic Algorithms (GA), Hidden Markov Models, Deep Learning (DL), and Support Vector machines (SVMs). Every AI-based technique has some advantages. ANFIS is good at managing uncertainty, NNs are good at identifying intricate patterns, and KNN is a straightforward but reliable method for regression and classification [
26]. The particular motor system, the type of probable problems, and the data at hand all influence the approach selection. As a result, AI techniques are being used more and more for enhancing the identification and evaluation of motor faults.
Hybrid methodologies for failure diagnosis and detection in IMs combine AI with fault frequency-based techniques. By utilizing the advantages of both systems, these techniques improve accuracy, durability, and dependability. Generally, they entail the analysis of sensor inputs using the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) for feature extraction, and then AI-based fault categorization into distinct categories, such as broken rotor bars or bearing problems. The hybrid approach improves noise reduction, feature selection, and defect prediction while addressing the drawbacks of each methodology, such as resource needs in AI systems and noise sensitivity in FF-based approaches.
2.2. Novelty and Significance of Our Work
In the light of previous analysis, a variety of monitoring strategies have been employed with considerable success in managing the health of induction motors. Notably, vibration-based and thermal-image-based monitoring strategies have yielded positive outcomes. Additionally, Motor Current Signature Analysis, or MCSA-based methods, are increasingly favored for their exceptional online monitoring capabilities and their broad scope in detecting various faults [
27]. Despite these advancements, challenges persist, particularly in environments with significant noise interference and variable operating conditions, which can impact the optimal efficiency of health monitoring systems. Consequently, the industry necessitates health monitoring techniques that are not only accurate but also efficient in terms of computational resources. These techniques must guarantee consistent and reliable performance, even in sub-optimal conditions. The Digital Twin concept emerges as the optimal strategy to swiftly attain such high performance standards [
28]. By creating a virtual replica of the physical motor, Digital Twins enable real-time monitoring and analysis, facilitating immediate adjustments and preemptive maintenance actions, thereby ensuring the motor’s health and operational longevity with minimal computational overhead.
For Digital Twin-based fault detection, the research carried out in [
15] presents a novel methodology for optimal sensor placement in fault detection for permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs) using a Digital Twin-assisted framework. The objective is to enhance the reliability and fault detection capabilities of PMSMs by using finite element simulation models to train a classifier for fault detection and optimizing sensor placement using a genetic algorithm. The study achieved a fault detection accuracy of at least 90% for every state. The study detailed in [
16] showcases promising results that suggest the feasibility of constructing Digital Twins for induction motors with faults. This innovative approach allows for the verification of standard characteristics and failure signatures by employing both time and frequency domain analyses. Such a method provides a comprehensive understanding of the motor’s behavior under fault conditions, paving the way for more effective monitoring and maintenance strategies.
This research introduces a new approach that integrates the electrical equivalent circuit and ANFIS-based techniques, as outlined in reference [
29], to assess losses and efficiency. These metrics serve as health indicators to aid in identifying the key features for detecting broken rotor bar (BRB) issues. The effectiveness of the proposed methodology enables the utilization of a condition-based algorithm for the identification and categorization of problems in BRBs. The validity of the method is established by conducting experiments and comparing its performance to that of state-of-the-art procedures.
The term “Digital Twin” (DT) pertains to a computer-generated representation that accurately reproduces the attributes and operational capabilities of a tangible system, hence facilitating the emulation of its performance and state. The utilization of the word in question was initially documented in the scholarly publication by Hernández et al. in 1997 [
30], marking its introduction into contemporary industrial discourse. The field of DT has witnessed significant advancements through several research articles, leading to notable improvements. The implementation of DT techniques varies depending on the specific research objectives pursued. The efficacy of utilizing DT in the context of predictive maintenance has been demonstrated to effectively identify defects inside induction motors, hence mitigating operational downtime and minimizing associated maintenance expenses. The method being presented utilizes the losses and efficiency of IMs (induction motors) as indicators to detect and diagnose faults. The development of the DT model is grounded in the utilization of the double cage electrical equivalent circuit model including an accurate stray load loss model selected in [
31]. This model effectively encompasses the dynamic behavior of induction motors across many operational scenarios. The efficacy of the proposed methodology is assessed through the utilization of a dataset comprising five motors. This dataset encompasses one motor that is free from any faults and four motors that exhibit various defects. The purpose of this dataset is to validate the effectiveness of the provided method.
The primary contributions and novelty of this research study are outlined as follows:
We introduce an innovative fault detection and diagnosis technique for IMs that utilizes the results of a previously established efficiency model-based digital shadow approach [
32]. This approach provides real-time data on losses and efficiency.
We find 33 exhaustive and uncorrelated sources that influence the motor parameters and losses and hence the efficiency of the motor. These common sources are also associated with the effects of various faults.
We developed two new tables from these common sources to highlight the losses impacted by these sources.
Table 1 lists the sources of losses, while
Table 2 associates these sources as specific causes of motor failures.
We propose a loss-based fault detection network that outlines an overview of the algorithm for fault detection that is outlined below. In this network, the relationship between losses and faults is made through the motor parameters and shared sources. This network is the primary innovation of this paper.
Our methodology is validated using experimental data of broken rotor bars and compared with recent state-of-the-art methods that employ vibration signals for FDD [
33]. This comparative analysis reveals that our proposed methodology offers superior performance and reduced computational costs.