ABSTRACT

Alternators are designed to supply charge voltages of 14 V dc, that is the same voltage levels with batteries within the same electrical distribution system. Automotive alternators are usually belt-driven at 5-10 times crankshaft speed. The mechanical-to-electrical conversion efficiency for the 14 V Lundell alternator is in the vicinity of 50%, which means that every watt of output electrical power is accompanied by a watt of heat-generating loss, requiring 2 W of mechanical input power from engine shaft. Modern solutions for alternator construction include electronic voltage regulators to deal with wide fluctuations in alternator speed and load. The most-used closed-loop control solution based on electronic control of the rotor current for the alternator. The starter engages with flywheel ring gear by means of a small pinion. Since any vehicle needs both a starter and an alternator, which do not work simultaneously and have reverse conversion functions, the idea of merging the two devices has always existed in the automotive world.