Application of nonlinear design optimization for power converter components

A computer-aided-design approach for power converter components is described. A designer with a minimum of programming and optimization experience can interface with nonlinear optimization routines to rapidly perform design trade-offs that would be impossible by hand. A power converter design using MOSFET and bipolar-junction-transistor (BJT) switches is shown to illustrate the power of optimization routines in power electronics. Realistic design values and available vendor components can be incorporated in a design without using an extensive database program structure. A practical example is given with experimental data to verify the accuracy and usefulness of optimization software