Digitally Controlled AC Current Measurement and Protection Techniques

Abstract

This paper describes a cost effective AC current measurement method that avoids complex AC to DC current measurements by converting an amplified and rectified AC voltage drop across a shunt resistor to a duty cycle of a PWM signal. The current measurement chain output is fed into a microcontroller unit (MCU) and into a short circuit protection block that inhibits AC load drivers in case of overcurrent or short circuit events, overriding the state set by the MCU control algorithm. The authors present a mathematical model, simulations and a practical evaluation of customdeveloped circuits that are capable to reach a convincing level of measurement precision. By counting a given number of consecutive AC periods, the effect of inrush current generated by inductive AC loads is filtered. The proposed solution allows inrush currents up to 3A, fitting the consumption range of AC control elements met in household application circuits, such as relays or solenoid valves.