Alternator regulator having output monitoring and limiting controls

Abstract

An alternator regulator includes a status sensor connected to monitoring the connection of a voltage sensor to the alternator and a separate current limited monitor unit to regulate the output in accordance with the alternator current output. The sensor monitor unit includes a continuity circuit detector coupled to the voltage sensor and operable to continuously monitor the state of the connection to the alternator. A fault in the circuit connection such as a loose terminal, a broken lead or other such faults, opens the continuity circuit and generates a signal which drive the regulator off and terminates operation of the alternator, thereby protecting the alternator from possible destruction. A voltage/current mode selector receives a voltage related signal and a current related signal. A signal comparator is coupled to the voltage related signal and the sensed current related signal and generates a logic control signal applied to the selector to transmit one of the two signals. If the voltage drops, the current control is automatically triggered at a selective level to control the alternator output in accordance with the current output. The current limit control will limit the alternator output when zero voltage is occasioned by a short circuit condition. The conjoint control effected by the separate status sensing monitor positively shuts down the alternator, preventing operation of the current mode and insuring total protection of the alternator system.