Investigation of inverterless control of interior permanent-magnet alternators

This paper investigates the performance and control of a low-cost 6-kW concept demonstrator of an "inverterless" automotive alternator. This is based on a switched-mode rectifier (SMR) combined with a high-flux interior permanent-magnet (PM) machine. Duty cycle control of the SMR is described and the theoretical predictions are compared with open-loop experimental results. The efficiency of the concept demonstrator is examined as a function of speed and load. Control issues regarding automotive operation are discussed.