An Integrated Starter-Alternator System Using Induction Machine Winding Reconfiguration

A system designed for use as an integrated starter-alternator unit in an automobile is presented in this paper. The new system utilizes a basic squirrel-cage rotor induction machine with the ability to externally switch the winding configuration for optimal performance. A conventional V/f motor controlling inverter drives the machine in starting mode and rectifies the output of the generator in alternating mode. A system controller manages the inverter and user interface to the system. This system is designed to minimize cost and exhibit good reliability.