Power Voltage Regulator

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Description

The Power Voltage Regulator is a Power Component that regulates the output voltage to a user-defined threshold. When the input voltage exceeds the regulation voltage, the output is clamped to the target value. If the input voltage is below the regulation voltage, the output passes through with only resistive losses.

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Example Use Cases

• Bus Voltage Regulation: Maintain a stable voltage level for sensitive spacecraft subsystems.
• Over-Voltage Protection: Limit downstream voltage when the power source exceeds expected levels.
• Power Conditioning: Provide a consistent voltage to loads despite variations in the upstream power bus.

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Module Implementation

The voltage regulator operates in one of two modes depending on the input voltage.

Regulation Mode

When the input voltage exceeds the regulation threshold:

$$V_{\text{out}}=V_{\text{reg}}$$

where $V_{\text{reg}}$ is the configured regulation voltage.

Pass-Through Mode

When the input voltage is below the regulation threshold, the output voltage equals the input minus resistive losses:

$$V_{\text{out}}=V_{\text{in}}-IR$$

where $R$ is the internal resistance of the regulator.

Efficiency

The regulator efficiency is calculated as the ratio of output to input voltage:

$$\eta =\frac{V_{\text{out}}}{V_{\text{in}}}$$

Efficiency decreases when regulating, as excess voltage is dissipated internally.

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Assumptions/Limitations

• The regulator is a step-down (buck) type; it cannot boost voltage above the input level.
• Power dissipation during regulation is modeled as internal losses but does not include thermal effects unless a thermal model is attached.