Automated PSpice simulation as an effective design tool in teaching power electronics

In this paper, PSpice is used to deepen the student understanding of power electronics and to serve as a design tool for power converter circuits. A library that includes automated versions of dc/dc converters and rectifiers is built in PSpice using ideal switches. The automated version permits students to design converter circuits that meet a set of design criteria. The performance of various designs are tested by plotting the current and voltage waveforms using the graphics postprocessor Probe. The library was introduced to students in a power electronics course, and they have been asked to augment its contents through mini-design projects. The response was positive, which will encourage the extension of the approach to other subjects.