Improvement of alternator-battery matching using a SMR

The customary method of interfacing a vehicle's alternator to the battery load is via 3-phase diode peak detection rectifiers (PDR). Charging is regulated by controlling the alternator's field excitation current. This method, although simple and cost efficient, causes significant degradation in the alternator's energy conversion efficiency. This article reviews the customary method, and points out its disadvantages in comparison to 3-phase switch-mode rectification (SMR).