Why doesn't the charge light illuminate when the voltage regulator dies? More exactly the brushes are worn so the alternator is not charging the battery. Shouldn't the light warn of this condition?

The light comes on when the engine is not running and the key in the on position so the bulb is not burned out. The light extinguishes when the engine starts and runs.

Battery voltage is about 12 when the engine is not running. Engine running, the voltage is about 11.5. Engine running and headlights on, the voltage is about 10.5. Obviously not charging. Pulled the regulator and brushes are almost gone (many thanks to all the previous threads and all who have gone before). The OVP Relay fuse is OK.

The old threads mention charging system failures and the dash light not glowing. How can this be? I thought when the battery voltage was higher than the alternator voltage the light came on