Average-value modeling of automotive alternator-rectifier systems

Average-value modeling is indispensable for dynamic characterization of automotive machine-converter systems. However, analytical derivation of accurate models at low voltage applications is challenging due to the non-ideal characteristics of semiconductor switches (rectifier diodes). This paper presents a parametric average-value model of a car alternator-rectifier system. The model parameters take into account the diode forward voltage drop and are extracted using detailed simulation, which avoids laborious analytical derivations. A detailed model of the system is implemented and validated experimentally. The proposed average-value model is verified against measurement and detailed simulation in predicting electromechanical transients.