Hierarchical Approach in Modeling and Simulation of Power Electronics for Education

For teaching power electronics circuits, circuit simulation is well adapted, to show the working principles of the various types of power electronics converters. However, depending on the complexity of the models used, the teaching purpose might be troubled by the implementation details, required for the specific simulation program. Instead of focusing on the power electronics working principles, limitations and/or parametrization of models, becomes a disturbing factor. Depending on the goal of the simulation results, modeling should be fitted exactly to the knowledge level and availability of parameters. In this paper, a hierarchical modeling method is presented, which allows the simulation, of basic principles, up to detailed circuits. Linear models and open-loop operation, are for the understanding of the basic principles. Generic models are added to simulate closed-loop behavior. Detailed component models, are finally required, for the simulation of closed-loop feedback, EMI and thermal behavior. Finally, parasitic components are added, for detailed electromagnetic interference and component stress simulation. The basic working principles are modeled using simple models, and then, depending on the required simulation results, the models are expanded into more detailed models.