Analysis and Design of a Switching Latching Current Limiter (SwLCL)

This paper presents the implementation of a switching latching current limiter (SwLCL). In space power systems, overcurrent protection is commonly implemented using linear LCLs, with MOSFETs operating in the linear region to limit the current. Operating in a switching mode instead of a linear mode could reduce dissipation and consequently the size of the LCLs. After analysis and design, a switching LCL prototype based on Gallium Nitride (GaN) transistors was built and tested. Experimental measurements were conducted to verify its functionality and demonstrate the performance of the overcurrent protection circuit.