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Simulation of magnetics for power electronics using Python

Shivkumar Iyer

This course covers the theory of transformers by simulating them. The simulation models are built from first principles using fundamental laws of physics. To ease the process of bridging the gap between theory and simulation, we will begin with simple inductors and compare simulation results with theory. The course contain several code along sessions with all simulation models built using Python and with the free and open source circuit simulator Python Power Electronics. The final session contains a case study of a flyback converter where besides the theory of operation of the converter, the simulation also covers the high frequency transformer used.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Basics of magnetic circuits in electrical engineering
  • Solving basic magnetic circuits
  • Creating a custom inductor model with magnetic circuit details
  • Understanding the concept of magnetic coupling
  • Generating a mathematical model for coupled inductors using basic physics
  • Simulating coupled inductors
  • Basics of transformers
  • Generating a mathematical model for a transformer
  • Simulating a transformer
  • Simulating step-up and step-down transformers
  • Understanding dot polarities of transformer windings
  • Simulating multi winding transformer windings
  • Topology and operation of a flyback converter
  • Simulating a flyback converter
  • Show more
  • Show less

Syllabus

Introduction
Course overview
Expected goals
Course requirements and prerequisites
Read more
Course audience
Completing the course
How to solve magnetic circuits, how to model the magnetic circuit of an inductor and how to include magnetic construction details into a circuit simulation.
Inductor Basics
Magneto motive force of a coil
Flux in the core of an inductor
Solving magnetic circuits
B-H Equation
B-H curve
Approach to modeling an inductor
Installing the circuit simulator
Getting started with simulating a resistor-inductor (R-L) circuit
Simulating the inductor from the library
Creating the custom inductor component
Simulating the custom inductor component
Numerical integration techniques and output impedance impact
Simulating an inductor with the magnetic core details
Simulating an inductor core with an air gap
Conclusion
The concept of magnetic coupling, developing a model for coupled inductors, simulating coupled inductors and develop a foundation for transformers.
Transformer winding inductances
Concept of magnetic coupling
Transfer of energy between coupled coils
Expressing coupling between coils mathematically
Mutual inductance
Approach to modeling coupled inductors
Editing the schematics of the coupled inductor simulation
Coding the magnetic circuit of the coupled inductors
First analysis of coupled inductor simulation results
No load simulation showing input power factor and magnetization current
Short circuit of the second coil with voltage collapse
Impedance matching
Connecting an R-L load to the output coil
Impedance matching of the output coil for the R-L load
Simulating coupled coils with different number of turns
Simulating coils wound in opposing senses
Expressing equations in a matrix form
Converting a matrix to upper triangular form
Solving matrix equations
Optimizing the solution method
Conclusions
Creating an equivalent circuit and mathematical model from transformer specification, implementing the model in Python code, analyzing simulation results.
Transformer basics
Transformer winding turns ratio
Setting up the transformer simulation
Editing transformer circuit parameters
Transformer model configuration and control code
Coding the transformer parameters
Verifying control code and interpreting parameters
Running the transforming simulation and verifying the results
Transformer inrush current
Simulating a step-up transformer
Understanding current transformation in transformers
Including the core loss component in the simulation model
Dot polarities in transformer windings
Simulating a transformer with opposing dot polarities
Multi winding transformer - creating circuit schematics
Editing circuit parameters of a multi winding transformer
Editing the magnetic model of a multi winding transformer
Analyzing the simulation results of a multi winding transformer
Basics of power converters, principle of operation of a flyback converter, high frequency transformers and simulating a flyback converter.
Applications of power converters
Flyback converter topology and operation
High frequency transformers
Creating the circuit of a flyback converter
Editing the circuit parameters of the flyback converter
Using Pulse Width Modulation to control the switch
Verifying the switched voltage across the primary of the flyback transformer
Modifying the dot polarities of the flyback transformer
Coding the parameters of a high frequency transformer
Solving simulation instability by decreasing integration time step
Observing the transformer winding voltages
Observing the charge and discharge of the output capacitor
Examining transient waveforms of the output
Concluding on the contents of the course and a few pointers for the future.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Uses Python and a free, open-source circuit simulator, making it accessible for learners without access to expensive proprietary software
Begins with simple inductors and gradually progresses to more complex transformers and a flyback converter case study, scaffolding learning effectively
Focuses on simulating magnetic components from first principles, offering a deeper understanding beyond simply using pre-built models
Requires familiarity with Python and circuit simulation, which may pose a barrier for beginners without prior experience in these areas
Covers the theory and simulation of flyback converters, which are widely used in various power electronic applications
Relies on a specific circuit simulator, so learners may need to invest time in learning the tool's interface and specific functionalities

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Reviews summary

Simulating magnetics for power electronics

Based on the information available, a detailed summary reflecting student feedback cannot be generated as review data was not provided. This course focuses on the theory and simulation of magnetic components like inductors and transformers for power electronics applications using Python and the Python Power Electronics library, building models from fundamental physics and including a case study of a flyback converter.
Course uses Python for simulations.
"Note: Analysis based on course description; no reviews provided."
"This point would reflect feedback on using Python for simulation."
"Potential feedback on code clarity or required Python skill level."
Features a flyback converter case study.
"Note: Analysis based on course description; no reviews provided."
"Students often appreciate practical application examples like a case study."
"Reviews might praise the depth or relevance of this example."
Covers both theory and practical simulation.
"Note: Analysis based on course description; no reviews provided."
"Reviews might comment on the balance between theory and hands-on simulation."
"Could be positive if integration is seamless, negative if disjointed."
Relies on Python Power Electronics library.
"Note: Analysis based on course description; no reviews provided."
"Reviews might discuss the effectiveness or ease of use of this specific tool."
"Could be positive for practical skills, negative if tool has issues or is niche."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Simulation of magnetics for power electronics using Python with these activities:
Review Basic Circuit Theory
Reinforce your understanding of fundamental circuit concepts, which are essential for grasping the behavior of inductors, coupled inductors, and transformers in power electronics.
Show steps
  • Review the definitions of voltage, current, and resistance.
  • Practice solving simple series and parallel circuits.
  • Review Kirchhoff's Voltage and Current Laws.
Delve into 'Electromagnetic Compatibility Engineering'
Understand EMC principles to better interpret simulation results and troubleshoot potential noise issues in power electronic circuits.
View Electromagnetic Compatibility Engineering on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the chapters on noise coupling and shielding.
  • Identify potential sources of electromagnetic interference in flyback converters.
Simulate a Simple DC-DC Converter
Apply the simulation techniques learned in the course to a different power electronic topology, reinforcing your understanding of the simulation process.
Show steps
  • Choose a DC-DC converter topology (e.g., buck, boost).
  • Develop a simulation model using Python Power Electronics.
  • Analyze the simulation results and compare them to theoretical calculations.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Explore 'Power Magnetic Devices: A Multi-Objective Design Approach'
Learn advanced design techniques for magnetic components to optimize the performance of your simulations and real-world power electronic circuits.
View Power Magnetic Devices on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the chapters on transformer and inductor design.
  • Apply the multi-objective design techniques to a flyback transformer simulation.
Document Your Simulation Workflow
Solidify your understanding by creating a detailed guide on how to set up and run simulations using Python Power Electronics, making it easier to replicate and share your work.
Show steps
  • Outline the key steps in the simulation process.
  • Write clear and concise instructions for each step.
  • Include screenshots and code snippets to illustrate the process.
Explore Advanced Simulation Techniques
Expand your simulation skills by following tutorials on advanced topics such as thermal modeling or finite element analysis of magnetic components.
Show steps
  • Search for tutorials on power electronics simulation using Python.
  • Follow a tutorial on thermal modeling of inductors.
  • Implement the thermal model in your inductor simulation.
Contribute to Python Power Electronics
Deepen your understanding of the simulator by contributing to its development, which will expose you to the underlying code and algorithms.
Show steps
  • Explore the Python Power Electronics repository on GitHub.
  • Identify a bug or feature to work on.
  • Submit a pull request with your changes.

Career center

Learners who complete Simulation of magnetics for power electronics using Python will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Power Electronics Engineer
A Power Electronics Engineer designs and develops electronic systems for power conversion and control. This course, through its simulation of magnetics for power electronics, directly aligns with the skills needed by power electronics engineers. By covering the theory of transformers and building simulation models from first principles using Python, the course helps build a strong foundation for understanding and designing power electronic circuits. This engineer would find particular value in the final session's case study of a flyback converter, including the high frequency transformer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Power Electronics Engineer
Power Supply Design Engineer
Power Supply Design Engineers specialize in the design and development of power supplies for various electronic devices. This course provides the theoretical background and simulation skills necessary for designing efficient and reliable power supplies. The course offers significant value for power supply design engineers by covering transformer theory, inductor modeling, and flyback converter simulation. Hands-on experience with Python and Python Power Electronics helps build practical skills that are directly applicable to power supply design work.
See salaries and explore the career path for Power Supply Design Engineer
Circuit Design Engineer
Circuit Design Engineers are responsible for designing and testing electronic circuits. The Simulation of Magnetics for Power Electronics course provides circuit design engineers with critical skills in simulating magnetic components. The course helps build a strong understanding of inductors, coupled inductors, and transformers, and it also allows circuit design engineers to incorporate magnetic core details into circuit simulations. The code-along sessions using Python and the Python Power Electronics simulator offers a hands-on approach that is directly applicable to circuit design work.
See salaries and explore the career path for Circuit Design Engineer
Power Systems Engineer
Power Systems Engineers work on the design, maintenance, and optimization of electrical power systems. This course, with its focus on simulating magnetics for power electronics, helps enhance their understanding of key components within power systems. The course covers the theory and simulation of transformers, a critical element in power systems. Power Systems Engineers also benefit from the hands-on simulation models built using Python, particularly the case study involving a flyback converter and high frequency transformer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Power Systems Engineer
Research and Development Engineer
Research and Development Engineers conduct research and develop new technologies. This course can be highly beneficial for R and D engineers working on power electronics and magnetics. Through the simulation-based approach to understanding transformer theory and the creation of custom inductor models, an R and D Engineer can gain valuable insights for innovation. The use of Python and Python Power Electronics simulator allows for experimental validation of new designs and concepts.
See salaries and explore the career path for Research and Development Engineer
Simulation Engineer
Simulation Engineers develop and implement simulation models to analyze and predict the behavior of complex systems. This course may be useful to simulation engineers, particularly those focused on electrical and electronic systems. The core of the course involves building simulation models of magnetic components from first principles, helping improve their simulation skills. The use of Python and a dedicated circuit simulator, as covered in this course, helps simulation engineers expand their toolkit and apply these skills to power electronics applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Simulation Engineer
Control Systems Engineer
Control Systems Engineers design and develop control systems for various applications, including power electronics. This course is directly relevant as it covers the simulation of magnetics, a key aspect of designing robust control systems for power electronics. The systematic approach of the course, starting with simple inductors and progressing to complex transformers and flyback converters, helps build a solid foundation for designing control systems in this field. A control systems engineer would find particular value in the ability to model and simulate these components using Python.
See salaries and explore the career path for Control Systems Engineer
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineers design, develop, and test electrical equipment and systems. This course may be useful for an electrical engineer who seeks to enhance their understanding of magnetics in power electronics using simulation techniques. With coverage of basic magnetic circuits, coupled inductors, and transformers, the course helps expand the knowledge base of electrical engineers, particularly in the domain of power electronics. The simulation models built using fundamental laws of physics and Python serve as a practical tool for electrical engineers, enabling them to design and troubleshoot electrical systems more effectively.
See salaries and explore the career path for Electrical Engineer
Hardware Engineer
Hardware Engineers design, develop, and test computer systems and components. This course may be useful for hardware engineers who focus on the power aspects of hardware design. It would help improve their understanding of how magnetic components behave within a system. The course's coverage of inductors, transformers, and flyback converters, along with the simulation techniques taught using Python, helps hardware engineers optimize the power delivery and efficiency of hardware systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Hardware Engineer
System Validation Engineer
System Validation Engineers are responsible for validating that a complete system meets its requirements. This course may be useful for system validation engineers, particularly those working on systems involving power electronics. By the course simulating magnetics, a component that contributes to system behavior and performance, these engineers will have a more complete understanding of the system. The course will help system validation engineers plan effective validation strategies and analyze test results in the context of system-level performance.
See salaries and explore the career path for System Validation Engineer
Product Development Engineer
Product Development Engineers are involved in the design and development of new products. This course may be useful for product development engineers who work on products involving power electronics. The course's focus on simulating magnetic components, such as inductors and transformers, could potentially assist in the design and optimization process. By understanding the behavior of these components through simulation, a product development engineer can improve the performance and reliability of power electronic products.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Development Engineer
Test Engineer
Test Engineers design and implement tests to ensure that products meet required specifications and quality standards. This course may be useful for test engineers who specialize in power electronics. These test engineers may gain a deeper understanding of the behavior of magnetic components through simulation. With the simulation skills, they can design more effective tests and interpret test data more accurately, helping verify the performance and reliability of power electronic devices.
See salaries and explore the career path for Test Engineer
Application Engineer
Application Engineers provide technical support and assistance to customers using a company's products. This course may be useful for application engineers in helping them better understand the theoretical underpinnings of power electronic systems, enabling them to provide better application support. The course's emphasis on simulation and modeling allows application engineers to develop a deeper understanding of the products they support and their capabilities. This is especially true for magnetic components.
See salaries and explore the career path for Application Engineer
Lecturer
A lecturer teaches courses at a college or university. This course may be useful for a lecturer who is teaching electrical engineering or power electronics. This lecturer may use some of the knowledge, techniques, and examples from the course in their own lectures. They may also be seeking to refresh their knowledge of the subject matter. With course material covering simulation models built using Python and Python Power Electronics, the lecturer may find new ways to improve the depth and quality of their curricula.
See salaries and explore the career path for Lecturer
Firmware Engineer
Firmware Engineers develop the software embedded in hardware devices. This course may potentially be useful to firmware engineers who work with power electronics systems, particularly those involving advanced control algorithms. While the course focuses on simulation, the underlying principles of magnetics and power conversion helps inform the design of efficient and reliable firmware. The understanding of flyback converters and high frequency transformers can potentially assist in optimizing the firmware for these systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Firmware Engineer

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Simulation of magnetics for power electronics using Python.
Cover image
Power Magnetic Devices
Save
Provides a detailed approach to the design of magnetic components used in power electronics, including inductors and transformers. It covers multi-objective design optimization techniques, which can be applied to improve the performance of simulated magnetic devices. This book is valuable for those seeking to go beyond basic simulation and optimize their designs. It is often used as a reference by power electronics engineers.
Power Magnetic Devices
Paperback
Check
Power Magnetic Devices
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Electromagnetic Compatibility Engineering
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) principles. It is helpful for understanding noise coupling mechanisms in power electronic circuits, especially those involving transformers. While not directly focused on simulation, it provides a strong theoretical foundation for interpreting simulation results and troubleshooting EMC issues. This book is commonly used by electrical engineers.
Electromagnetic Compatibility Engineering
Hardcover
$$$$
Electromagnetic Compatibility Engineering
Kindle Edition
$$$$

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Effort
16.5 total hours
Via
Udemy
Instructor
Shivkumar Iyer
Language
English
Good to know
Uses Python and a free, open-source circuit simulator, making it accessible for learners without access to expensive proprietary software
Begins with simple inductors and gradually progresses to more complex transformers and a flyback converter case study, scaffolding learning effectively
Focuses on simulating magnetic components from first principles, offering a deeper understanding beyond simply using pre-built models
Requires familiarity with Python and circuit simulation, which may pose a barrier for beginners without prior experience in these areas
Covers the theory and simulation of flyback converters, which are widely used in various power electronic applications
Relies on a specific circuit simulator, so learners may need to invest time in learning the tool's interface and specific functionalities
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