Abstract: An estimating circuit for application in estimating or deriving the value V.sub.rms.sup.2 or V.sub.peak.sup.2, of a line voltage V.sub.AC provides fast response time and a substantially ripple free value for these signals by the utilization of a controlled harmonic oscillator whose output precisely tracks the input voltage waveform. Two out of phase (by .pi./2) sine wave signals are derived from the input sine wave and these two out of phase signals are squared and summed to derive or estimate the desired square of the sine waveform signal at a fast response time while substantially excluding ripple of the estimated out of phase sine waves. An estimating circuit, described herein, comprises two integrator circuits series connected into a substantially closed loop. The output of the second integrator circuit is fed back to the input of the first integrator circuit. The output of each individual integrator circuit is a voltage sine wave separated in phase from the output of the other integrator by .pi.

Abstract: A power factor control system for a rectifier is operative through the generation of estimators of control input parameters (a peak squared input AC voltage E.sub.m.sup.2 and load power) and by the use of these substantially ripple free signals controls a boost, buck, buck-boost, SEPIC or other related type converter at the input to the rectifier. The generation of these parameters allows the derivation of a programmed current i.sub.p used to control the wave form of the actual input current. The control procedure is based on a quarter cycle averaged power basis. The input power is derived from the rms values of the input voltage and current. Given the output power and its deviations in power due to load changes, the programmed current i.sub.p is determined by deriving an input conductance of the rectifier and combining it with the input voltage.